Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Drains & Sewer Line

As a responsible homeowner, it’s crucial to take care of your property’s infrastructure, and that includes regular maintenance of your drains and sewer lines. Neglecting these components of your plumbing system can lead to costly and messy backups, clogs, and other plumbing problems. Fortunately, by adopting some simple yet impactful practices, you can keep your drains and sewer lines in top working condition and avoid expensive repairs down the road.

In this blog, we provide some expert drain maintenance tips to help you prevent future plumbing problems in your home.

1. Mind What You Flush

One of the most important of our sewer maintenance tips is being mindful of what you flush down the toilet or wash down the sink. Flushing certain items can lead to blockages and backups that can be both costly and unpleasant to deal with. Avoid flushing items such as:

• Sanitary napkins
• Baby wipes
• Paper towels
• Cotton balls
• Dental floss
• “Flushable” wipes

These items don’t break down easily and can accumulate inside your pipes, causing obstructions over time. And yes, even wipes that are labeled as flushable are misleading. If you flush too many, they can clog your drain and sewer lines. Stick to flushing only toilet paper to maintain a healthy flow through your sewer lines.

2. Follow Proper Grease Disposal

Cooking grease may seem harmless when it’s hot and liquid, but as it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the interior of your pipes. Over time, this can lead to stubborn clogs that impede water flow.

To prevent such issues, never pour grease or oil down the sink or toilet. Instead, collect used cooking grease in a container and dispose of it in the trash once it solidifies. Alternatively, consider recycling cooking oil if it’s appropriate in your area.

3. Consider Installing Drain Screens

One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent clogs in your drains is by installing drain screens or stoppers. These simple and inexpensive devices can catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter your pipes.

Regularly cleaning the drain screens will ensure they continue to function optimally. For bathroom sinks and showers, use screens that are designed to trap hair effectively, while for kitchen sinks, opt for screens that can stop food scraps from going down the drain.

4. Regularly Clean Your Drains

Make it a habit to clean your drains regularly to prevent buildup and potential clogs. You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down grease and debris. Simply pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Allow the mixture to fizz for a few minutes, then flush it with hot water. This natural remedy can help maintain clean and clear drains; however, it should not be used as a substitute for professional drain cleaning.

5. Schedule Professional Plumbing Inspections

While there are plenty of measures you can take as a homeowner to maintain your drains and sewer lines, it’s essential to have periodic professional inspections. Plumbers can use specialized tools, such as sewer cameras, to inspect the interior of your pipes for any signs of damage, tree root intrusion, or potential blockages. Catching these issues early on can save you from costly repairs in the future.

Trust Campbell & Company with Your Drains & Sewer Lines

Taking care of your drains and sewer lines doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these essential maintenance tips, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains in excellent condition and avoid the headache of clogs and backups.

If you’re dealing with persistent drain clogs and sewer line blockages, don’t hesitate to contact the professional plumbers at Campbell & Company. Our team specializes in delivering superior drain and sewer solutions to families throughout the Tri-Cities area and beyond. With 24/7 emergency availability and 100% satisfaction guaranteed, there’s no team better equipped to handle your drain and sewer service requests.

Call 509-545-9848 to schedule your drain or sewer service today!