9 Steps to Avoid Drain Cleaning Disasters

The fall season is coming, and it is one of the busiest times of year for plumbers and drain cleaning professionals. Sewage systems can become overrun with additional houseguests, causing inconvenient backups. When preparing and cleaning up evening meals at home, homeowners can also clog up their sinks, disposals, and washing machines. Below are 9 steps to help you avoid having a clogged drain.

• Do not under any circumstance dump grease directly down your drain. Grease solidifies when it cools and will build up on the inside of your plumbing.
• Always collect excess grease in spare containers. Wait for it to solidify, then dispose of it.
• Never force large amounts of food down the garbage disposal at once. Give the unit plenty of time to grind the food before adding more.
• Don’t use your garbage disposal as a trash can.
• Always turn on the water before starting the garbage disposal, and keep it running for a minute after turning off the disposal to move waste through the pipes.
• Leftovers can do a number on your sink. Make sure all food scraps are scraped off plates before rinsing. Letting food remnants slide down your drain will cause backups in your kitchen pipes.
• Along the same lines, make sure dishes are scraped clean before being placed in the dishwasher. Food scraps can collect in the dishwasher and prevent proper drainage.
• Keep the area around your sink and disposal clear; utensils and other kitchen tools can slip into your garbage disposal and bring it to a screeching stop.
• Avoid leaving paper towels in bathrooms. If toilet paper supplies run out, guests may reach for paper towels instead, which can stop up toilets.