How to Prevent Clogged Drains

Who wants a clogged drain? No one, that's who. Blocked drains are major headaches and lead to costly water bills. Thankfully, prevention is half of the battle. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Tampa, we provide many popular services for local homeowners and businesses, including drain cleaning and pipe repair. If you want to avoid calling a plumber in Greater Northdale, FL for another blockage or backup, keep reading. Here are a few easy ways to prevent your drains from getting clogged.

Be Smart About What You Put Down the Drain

Avoid putting grease and other undesirable items down the drain. Grease buildup is one of the most common causes of clogged drains; it sits in stagnant water until it hardens into a glob that will be difficult to remove from your pipes. It's also a good idea to steer clear of coffee grounds, eggshells, fish bones, and starchy foods like pasta or potatoes. These materials can quickly clog a drain, making it challenging to complete your daily activities.

Use Strainers in All of Your Sinks, Bathtubs, and Showers

Use a strainer to catch debris such as hair, food particles, and other objects in your drain. If you do not use a strainer, these items will go down your drain and clog it up. This can cause many problems, including clogged pipes, flooding, and even sewer backups. Strainers come in many sizes and shapes for different types of drains. Some strainer models are designed for sinks, while others are made for bathtubs or showers.

Install a Water Softener

Water softeners are not the same as water filters. A filtration system will remove chemicals, contaminants, and other impurities from your water supply. Water softeners remove minerals from your water supply. You may think that it's better to purchase a water filter instead of installing an entire home system. However, installing a whole house water softener system will be more effective because it will prevent scale buildup inside your pipes, which can cause clogs and pipe damage.

Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Don't use harsh chemicals or drain cleaners when you clean your home. Drain cleaners specifically can cause damage to your fixtures and pipes. The best way to clean your drains is by using a natural product like baking soda and vinegar. It's a good idea to clean your drains with a mild solution once per month and to invest in professional drain cleanings every 1 to 2 years.

Call a Plumber When You Notice Signs of Trouble

If you do notice chronic clogs or other problems with your drains or sewer line, contact a plumber right away. Neglecting the issue could lead to further plumbing issues and water damage from leaks or burst pipes. If you notice the following signs, you need to call a plumber.

• Slow Drainage
• Bad Odors
• Toilet Backups
• Visible Signs of Leaks or Mold Growth

Do You Need a Professional Drain Cleaning or Plumbing Inspection?

Clogged drains are a nuisance, but they don't need to ruin your day. If you're tired of struggling with recurring blockages or other plumbing issues, reach out to the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Tampa. Our dependable local plumbers have the training and experience needed to get your pipes back in great shape fast. Contact our specialists for more information about our wide selection of offerings or to schedule an appointment with a professional plumber in your neighborhood.