Maintaining your home’s drains is a year-round job that can save you a lot of hassle and money. When you ignore your drains, clogs and slow pipes can become a frequent problem. While it's easy to forget about your drains when they're working correctly, a little proactive care can prevent major headaches down the road. For any serious issue, you can get professional help. If you need drain cleaning in Charlotte, NC, E.R. Plumbing Services is ready to help you with quick, reliable solutions.
Fall Prep for Clogs
As the leaves begin to fall, your outdoor drains and gutters become a big risk for clogs. Make sure you clear your gutters of all debris. It's a good idea to trim back any tree branches that are hanging over your roof and drains. For indoor drains, a professional drain cleaning company can perform a camera inspection to see if there are tree roots that have started to get into your sewer line. If they have, it's a good time to get a professional to handle the problem before it gets worse.
Winter Plumbing Care
During the winter months, the cold weather can cause its own set of plumbing problems. A pipe can freeze and burst. To prevent this, disconnect all your hoses from outdoor spigots and turn off the water to any outside lines. In your home, be mindful of what goes down your kitchen drain. More cooking and holiday meals can mean more grease and food waste. Do not pour grease down the sink to prevent a serious clogged drain.
Spring Cleaning for Your Drains
After a long winter, spring is a great time to give your drains some attention. Start by checking your outdoor drains and gutters for any leaves or debris that might have built up. A clogged gutter can send water cascading down the side of your house, causing damage to your foundation. Inside, you can run hot water down your drains for a few minutes to clear out any grease or soap scum that has built up. You can also pour a mix of vinegar and baking soda down a drain to help clear minor clogs.
Summer Maintenance
Summer often means more use of your drains, from frequent showers to cookouts. A good habit is to use a drain strainer in your kitchen sink to catch food scraps and prevent them from going down the drain. You can also use a strainer in your shower to catch hair. A clogged drain from hair and soap is a common issue that can be avoided with a simple strainer. It is also a good idea to avoid putting any coffee grounds or grease down your kitchen sink, as they are a frequent cause of clogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my drains professionally cleaned?
It's a good idea to get a professional drain cleaning every year or two to prevent clogs.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe for my pipes?
Chemical cleaners can corrode your pipes over time and are not recommended for frequent use.
What is hydro jetting?
Hydro jetting is a professional method that uses a high-pressure stream of water to clear clogs and clean the inside of pipes.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, a clog is too stubborn for a DIY fix. If you have a toilet that is overflowing, a sink that won't drain at all, or a strange smell coming from your pipes, it is time to call a professional. They have the right tools and expertise to handle any clog, no matter how big. A professional can use hydro jetting to blast away tough clogs and clean your pipes thoroughly.
Don't let drain clogs disrupt your day. For a reliable solution, call E.R. Plumbing Services today. We are a dependable drain cleaning company ready to help with any of your plumbing issues.
