Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems we see in the Orlando area, and that doesn’t come as a shock. There are plenty of little things you probably do every day that can lead to clogged drains. The good news is that, just like it’s easy to fall into those bad habits, it’s very easy to prevent clogged drains entirely!
Use a Lint Trapper with Your Washing Machine Hose
Every time you wash your clothes, bits of fabric and lint make their way down your washing machine hose, with the occasional sock or underwear making its way in there once in a blue moon.
Since all that fabric can create a tough clog, install a lint trapper to catch any stray pieces, and empty it every so often to keep the trap clear.
Collect Grease and Oil
After you’ve spent the afternoon frying up dinner, don’t dump that oil down the drain — grease and oil are awful for drains and can cause some serious clogs. Collect the oil in an empty can, allow it to solidify, and throw the can out instead.
Use Hair Traps in Your Sinks & Shower
When you shave over the sink or take a shower, your hair ends up going down your drain where it can combine with soap scum to form a nice clog. To prevent this, use inexpensive rubber, mesh, or plastic hair traps to catch all that hair before it has a chance to go down the drain.
Take Advantage of Bacteria
Normally bacteria in your plumbing is a bad thing, but in this case, it’s a good thing. Bacterial drain cleaner isn’t corrosive so it won’t harm your pipes as long as you follow the package’s instructions. Important: Be sure to use bacterial drain cleaner, never chemical formulas.
Watch What You Put Down Your Disposal
It may be tempting to toss all of your food scraps down your garbage disposal, but that’s not the best idea. Certain foods, such as grease, meat, and starchy or stringy foods, can clog your disposal, if not actually damage it. Put those foods in the garbage or compost heap instead.
If you find yourself with a clogged drain, ask the professional plumbers at Ace Solves It All in Orlando to come to your aid. Call (407) 499-8006 if you live near Orange and Osceola Counties.