The drains in your sinks and bathtubs can get clogged fairly easily if you don’t know how to maintain your home’s plumbing properly. Instead of calling a plumber every other week to remove clogs, there are a few simple steps you can take to avoid these issues altogether. Below are a few common mistakes to avoid.

Do:

Install a drain filter.

Small debris can get caught on any buildup or partial clogs within your plumbing system and create larger problems. To avoid this, install drain filters on the sinks, bathtubs, and any drains throughout the home to catch larger items so you can dispose of them properly.

Run cold water when using the garbage disposal.

If you have a garbage disposal, run cold water down it occasionally to solidify any grease or oils so you can break them down before they go into the plumbing system. Though you should never intentionally dump these materials down the sink, some particles will inevitably be on the dishes, so this is a good habit to start.

Don’t:

Put oils or harmful foods down the drain.

Even if you have a garbage disposal, certain food items should never go down the drain. Oil and grease can build up in pipes or coat the blades of the disposal, while starchy foods like potato peels create a paste-like clog. Meanwhile, hard foods like celery and corn cobs can cause physical damage to the blades or other parts of the disposal. Throw these foods in the garbage or compost them instead.

Use harsh chemicals.

There are chemical drain cleaners available to help you remove partial clogs from your drains. However, these products can actually wear down your pipes and cause major damage. Instead, purchase other plumbing supplies like snakes or rely on a professional to remove clogs.

If you need plumbing supplies for your drains or sinks, turn to Lincoln Winnelson in Lancaster County, NE, can help. The locally owned and operated company offers a wide array of residential plumbing supplies and fixtures. Whether you’re planning a full bathroom remodel or need a specific part to complete a repair project, the helpful and knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect items for your needs. Check out the company’s website for more information about their products and showroom, or call (402) 423-1610 to inquire about specific items.