Clogged drains are inconvenient, but over time, they can become more serious issues for your plumbing system; for example, burst pipes can lead to water damage and mold growth. Here are a few steps to take to avoid clogs in the first place.

How to Prevent Clogged Drains

1. Run Hot Water After Every Use

To keep your drain clean, run hot water for 30 seconds to help cooking oils and grease move safely down your piping. If you have a garbage disposal, use cold water instead since it’s easier on the parts. Add baking soda or vinegar once or twice a week to eliminate odors and further clean the drain interior.

2. Brush Hair Before Showering

A few strands of hair slipping down the drain during a shower may seem harmless. However, as hair tangles with other blockages, it will catch additional debris flushed down the drain. The resulting clogs often occur deep in your plumbing system and are difficult to resolve. Prevent the problem by using a drain cover and brushing your hair before getting in to wash, which will lessen the strands escaping down the pipes.

3. Educate Your Family

Everyone in the family needs to understand what should and shouldn’t go down drains and toilets. Create a list of non-flushable items, including cooking grease, stringy foods like celery, rice, pasta, non-soluble liquids like paint, drain cleaners, feminine and hygiene products, and diapers. Print out the laminated list, and place it beside every plumbing fixture as a reminder.

If you experience clogs, bring in the professionals from A-1 Budget Plumbing in Honolulu, HI. They’ve proudly served clients for over 30 years handling residential and commercial plumbing systems. Their team also provides 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs. Call (808) 526-3747 to schedule an inspection, and visit their website to learn more about their services. For additional plumbing care tips, connect on Facebook.