It’s not easy to be a homeowner with endless to-do list. It’s no surprise that preventive measures such as maintaining the health of your pipes or drains, are rarely taken seriously. You might be surprised to learn that even cleaning the drains once a year is enough to save you money and prevent major damage.

We rely on our drains every day, from kitchen sinks to showers to laundry tubs and bathroom vanities. These five plumbing tips can help keep your drains running smoothly.

  1. Learn what you can and cannot put down your drains. Coffee grounds, eggsshells, grease, and other substances can cause problems and block your drains. For all household drains, it is important to stop larger objects from getting into the drain. To catch any objects that you don’t see, consider installing drain covers around your home.
  2. Get started with natural solutions. Baking soda and vinegar are effective in clearing your drains. If you have a problem with your drain, these natural solutions are better than any chemical remedies. You should not use store-bought chemical solutions if you don’t need them.
  3. Get involved in preventive cleaning. Do not make it a chore to clean out your drains every week. You can keep your drain and pipe healthy by rinsing the drain with a few tablespoons of dish detergent in hot water or using a little bleach once a month. You can prolong the life of your garbage disposal by placing a few ice cubes into it. Run cold water through the disposal and then turn it on. These simple tasks can make a big difference in the longevity of your plumbing.
  4. You should consider a yearly service to clean your drains and pipes. To assess the state of your drains and pipes, it is a good idea for this to be done every few years. Although it is more expensive, a formal annual cleaning can save you time and money down the road.
  5. Be aware of when you should call a professional Glendale, CA plumber. Some drain and pipe issues are too big for homeowners. If you are unable to solve the problem with natural and store-bought remedies, it could be more serious than you think. You should now call a skilled plumber to avoid further damage to the home.

While maintaining good drain and pipe health may not be a priority for everyone, it is an essential household task. These five tips can help prevent disaster. You should know what your coverage covers in case the worst happens.