Ways To Protect the Drains in Your Home
Various factors can contribute to draining problems in your home. Let’s be real; your life is hectic enough. Between everyone’s schedules, e-learning, remote working, staying safe in a pandemic, and still getting done the things you need to do, you might find yourself a little overwhelmed and disoriented. The last thing you need in the midst of all of this is a drainage issue. Being mindful of ways to protect the drains in your home may save you time and money and from dealing with excessive damage.
Keep Foreign Objects Out
The first line of defense against drain problems is to practice proper preventative care techniques. There are many products people think are safe to flush because no one has told them otherwise. However, you should never flush items such as baby wipes down a toilet. Wipes specially marketed as “flushable” should break down by design, but even flushable wipes should be used sparingly or not at all, if possible.
Feminine products are another large cause of drainage issues. The majority of women know these products cannot go down the toilet. Even used tampons cannot be flushed; they’re made of synthetic fibers that won’t break down. If at any time you’re confused about a product’s “flushability,” thoroughly read the instructions on the box it came in.
Hair is another big issue when it comes to your pipes’ draining abilities. The shower duct should be covered with a strainer to prevent hair from building up in the drain. Hair mixed with soap scum can cause a clog, and your water will then come back up the drain, as the path through is obstructed.
Use Natural Products
Using green products or natural household items may get you the results you’re looking for to maintain your drains. Green cleaners are safer to flush down the drain, as they don’t contaminate the water. Even sewage water goes through a purification process, so it can be used as reclaimed water in irrigation systems. Some harsh chemicals, however, cannot be removed through purification, therefore poisoning the water.
If you’re looking to unclog a drain, think about using a natural approach before pouring chemical pipe cleaners down it. Results can come quickly with these marketed liquid clog removers, but various other issues can arise. These liquids are corrosive materials, so relying on them to clear the pipes can cause the pipeline to soften, corrode, or crack over time. Anytime you can avoid using harmful chemicals, explore your options. It could save you a lot of time, money, and hassle later.
For example, vinegar is a natural cleaning agent and astringent. To maintain your pipes and break down grime in them, pour in a cup of vinegar and let it sit for thirty minutes. Then, run hot water through to rinse. Doing this regularly will eliminate some of the buildup in your pipes.
If at any time you find yourself needing help with your drainage system, hire a professional. Your pipes are sensitive, and a certified technician should handle extreme plumbing or clog issues. Being mindful of the ways to protect the drains in your home will help you better protect your entire system. Stay on the safe side and practice proper drain care processes by only flushing natural things and remaining alert to abnormal changes in the way things drain in your home.
