Clogged drains are the ultimate inconvenience. Not only does it prevent you from using your bathroom or kitchen, but it can also be time-consuming and costly to repair. If you have a clogged drain related emergency, be sure to call Affordable Pumping Services. In the meantime, here are some tips to avoid a clogged drain.

No Grease or Oils

Never pour cooking grease of any kind down your kitchen drain. Cooking grease like bacon or animal fat, melted butter, lard and vegetable oils build up when they solidify and can cause messy clogs.

Wipe Down Dishes

If you don’t have a garbage disposal, you should clean off food on your dishes into the garbage before placing them in the sink. Unfortunately, your sink strainer doesn’t catch all of the food particles. Wipe down the dishes prior to washing them to avoid food particles from building up in your pipes.

Check Your Stoppers

Check your bathroom sink and tub stoppers every three months or so for buildups of hair or gunk. You can flush the drain every so often by filling up the tub and pulling out the stopper completely. The weight and pressure of the water will help clear out the any buildup.

Have a Professional Check Your Plumbing

Your plumbing system should be checked by a professional once a year. They will check your drains, pipes and connections for any buildup or damage that could cause severe problems without maintenance.

Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners Often

Plumbers will tell you that harsh chemical drain cleaners can cause corrosion and damage to your pipes if used on a regular basis. They can be good in a pinch or an emergency situation, but it’s best to leave the unclogging to the professionals.

Use these helpful tips to prevent clogs and damage to your plumbing. If you need assistance with a clogged drain or have any questions, contact Affordable Plumbing Services today.