How prevent clogged drains

Drain lines transport water and waste from our homes to the sewer pipes. When there is a problem, it can cause big problems. A clog can slow down drains or even prevent them from working, and when this happens, stagnation can occur.

Beware of fatty foods

Grease can cause serious problems when it ends up in a drain and is often the cause of clogging. Even if grease that ends up in the drain does not cause an immediate clog, it can get caught in the pipes later on and create problems. Pouring grease down the drain is not the only way to create problems. Sauces and fatty foods can aggravate the problem. Even if you have a rubbish disposal, do not pour fatty foods or sauces down the drain. These include butter, salad dressings, meat trimmings and creamy sauces. 

Do not let hair go down the drain

Hair can create clogs in drains and pipes and is often difficult to remove with a plunger. Always use a fine-mesh hair catcher to prevent hair from going down the drain and keep your drains clean. 

Soap scum

Soap scum is also a major cause of clogging. If you live in an area with hard water, water reacts with soap scum to form what is known as soap scum, a sticky, slimy substance. A whole-house water softener can help solve this problem, as can switching to liquid soaps and body washes. Liquid soaps are much less likely to create soap scum.

Cleaning drain pipes

Prevention can be very helpful, and cleaning drain lines at regular intervals can keep things running smoothly before a problem occurs. As a general rule, a plumber should come and clean the drain lines every year and a half or so to avoid more costly interventions in the future. 

Call the Emergency Plumber in Stafford. We are 24 hours available.