The plumbing industry experiences a more than 50% uptick in service calls during the fall and winter holidays. That is because heightened usage then reveals and worsens certain problems that were already present. Let’s look at some of the steps you can take to avoid drainage issues this holiday season.
Practice Good Drain Habits
Take care with the food items you let into your drains. Grease is the top culprit for clogged drains, as it can attach to any texture, harden, and continue to accumulate. That includes cooking oil and grease from cooked meats plus butter, margarine, gravy, and salad dressings.
Avoid ‘Flushable’ Products
The only items you should flush down your toilets are waste and toilet paper. There are many products on the market today that companies market as “flushable,” such as flushable wipes. Despite those claims, those products are not safe to flush. They don’t disintegrate properly and can cause clogs directly or by providing texture for other substances to adhere to.
Schedule Garbage Disposal Installation or Maintenance
A garbage disposal can help you avoid kitchen sink-related clogs, which are among the most prevalent problems during the holidays. Garbage disposals can handle a wide range of soft foods and liquids that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to let down your drains. If you don’t yet have a garbage disposal, this is an excellent time to invest in one. If you do, consider scheduling a pre-holiday maintenance appointment to keep that system running in peak condition.
Use a DIY Mixture for Drain Maintenance
Maintain drain health throughout the year with some do-it-yourself maintenance. There are a number of substances you can use, including hot water, white vinegar, baking soda, and salt. These items can help to break up clogs that have started to form and clear out substances that are building up on the pipes. This approach is effective for preventive maintenance, but you should not use it to break up actual clogs. At that point, you need a professional plumber. Likewise, never use chemical drain cleaners that can have a lasting, negative impact on your pipes.
Schedule Preventive Drain Cleaning
Experts recommend preventive drain cleaning every several years. Through high-pressure plumbing techniques, a plumber can clear your drains and sewer line. Hydro jetting for sewers can clear grease, invasive tree roots, limescale, and much more.
Consider Hard Water Solutions
If you have hard water, it can make you more prone to clogs due to limescale and soap scum. The best solution is a point-of-entry water softening system. A water softener will remove most of the calcium and other minerals before the water enters your home.
Pride of Tucson is the premier choice for drain clearing and preventive drain cleaning in Tucson, AZ. Call today or contact us online to schedule an appointment.