Keep Your Sewer And Drains Flowing Freely — Home Maintenance Tips

Having a clogged drain is bad news; when your sewer backs up, it’s even worse. There are some quick fixes that can help temporarily, like drain cleaning chemicals, but they’re rarely a good long term solution. Plus, those chemicals are harsh, and the fumes they emit can be toxic. You’re better off if you avoid having to use them entirely by clearing clogs before they get out of hand. Here’s how:

1. Tackle Slow Moving Drains Before They Clog

Don’t wait till you have standing water in your sink or tub to tackle a slow moving drain. If a drain is draining very slowly, it usually means there’s something caught in the drain trap. If you can’t get to the blockage, use a plumbing snake to clear the debris out of the way.

2. Prevent Shower and Bath Clogs

Showers and bath drains are some of the easiest to clog, thanks the shampoo, conditioner, and soap residue, combined with shedding hair. Thankfully, these drains are some of the easiest to clear, too. Using a tool, called a drain stick, clear these drains out periodically, even if they’re not slow draining yet. A drain stick is a simple plastic arm with a comb-like end. Simply insert it into the drain, twirl, and remove. Do it a few times as deep as it will reach; you’ll be surprised by how much hair ends up in the drain!

3. Keep Drains Clean and Fresh

An ounce of prevention is worth a gallon of cure. Clean and clear your drains of minor debris on a monthly basis by using baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and let it sit for about twenty minutes. Follow it up with an equal amount of vinegar, then cover the drain lightly with a drain cover to keep the fizz in. Once the fizzing is over, pour a kettle of boiling water through the drain. Not only does this help keep your drains clear, it’ll also deodorize them for you.

Another good household remedy for fresh, clear drains—especially in the kitchen—is a very strong salt water solution. Salt water will keep your kitchen drains from getting grease clogged after washing the dishes.

4. Know When You Need A Professional

As any plumbing professional will tell you, one of the most common problems with household plumbing is how long it usually takes for the homeowner to give in and call. If you've tried snaking a drain and it’s not budging, don’t wait any longer. Call someone to clear the blockage. If it’s not just a drain, and your sewer is backing up, you’ll be very glad you got it cleared ASAP. Plus, one clog in the system can alter the flow of water in such a way that it causes more clogs. To find a professional near you, go online and look for sewer and drain cleaning Calgary, and call for an estimate.

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