No one wants to wake up one morning and find their sink backed up. Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for families, which means plumbing problems can spike. The kids might flush something down the toilet, or scraps from your latest backyard BBQ could block the kitchen sink. However, you don’t need to worry. You can ensure your pipes flow freely all summer by following these simple tips for preventing clogs.
Be Mindful of What You Put Down the Drain
Common culprits of summer drain clogs include grease and oil from grilling, sand and sunscreen from rising off in the shower, and extra food scraps down the sink. Make sure you’re double-checking what goes into your pipes, especially when you have family and friends over for summer celebrations.
Remind children of certain items that should never go down the drain as well, including:
- Grease, oil, and fat
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Pasta and rice
- Bread
- Fruit pits and rinds
- Large pieces of food
By keeping a close eye on your drains, you can easily avoid clogs that require repairing.
Rinse Off After Spending Time Outdoors Before You Shower
Use a garden hose to rinse off excess sand from your body if you’ve spent the day at the beach or on a hike. Excess sand, dirt, and grass can easily clog your shower drain and result in a blockage that needs to be professionally repaired.
You should also pay attention to your feet. If you and the kids are spending time outside barefoot, keep a bucket by the door to rinse off before you head inside.
Remind Guests Not to Flush Wipes or Other Items
Even so-called flushable wipes can lead to clogs, especially if they’re repeatedly put down the drain. Make sure your guests understand the only thing they should flush is toilet paper. Remind children what is and isn’t okay to flush. Consider childproofing your toilet if you have small children who may want to take their toys for a “swim.”
Schedule Drain Cleaning Before Summer
Over the year, it’s not uncommon for your drains to accumulate a lot of debris. A professional cleaning can blast away any dirt lining your plumbing to ensure a smooth summer season. Clearing minor buildup is always easier and less of a hassle than struggling with a clog.
Flush Your Drains Weekly
Run hot water down the drain lines in your home and rinse them well with dish soap. Just a small amount of grease-fighting dish soap can help clean your pipes and prevent future issues. In bathroom sinks, tubs, or showers, this process can dislodge soap scum and hair that often gets stuck in drains.
Only Use Natural Drain Cleaners
An enzyme-based drain cleaner can be a good part of your clog prevention strategy. Enzyme-based cleaners aren’t full of the harsh chemicals that can corrode your pipes. Investing in a high-quality solution can make it easy for you to rinse away buildup, especially if you live in a house with older plumbing.
Don’t let a clog put a damper on your summer fun. Contact Benicia Plumbing to schedule professional drain cleaning in Benicia, CA.
