Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Drainage System

What exactly is a drainage system?

In simple terms, it’s a network of pipes, channels, and other structures designed to collect and transport excess water away from where we don’t want it. This can mean anything from the gutters on your roof to the water flushing down the toilet and massive underground sewers in our cities. Without these systems, we would be dealing with floods, soil erosion, and all sorts of water problems on a regular basis.

Taking care of your home includes keeping your drains clear and your drainage system in good working order, as well as scheduling plumbing repairs in Spotswood.

Preventative measures are the greatest method to keep a drainage system in tip-top shape. In general, you probably won’t need to clear your drains of debris frequently if you are careful about what goes down them. However, blockages do occur, so it’s important to understand how to both clear the blockage and protect the structure of your drains.

Now that you know where you need to start, let’s take a look at some tips on how to maintain a healthy drainage system:

Be Observant

Problems with your drain don’t become fully noticeable until it’s too late and you require professional assistance. To quickly detect issues, smell, or visually inspect the drains. You can also search for indications of pipe leaks, such as foundation cracks, visible mold, etc.

Look for wet patches that shouldn’t be in your house. You should be mindful of your outdoor drains in addition to your interior drainage systems. Garden waste, including leaves and twigs, can clog these, and obstructions could result in floods. Another option for maintaining clear outside drains is to install a grate.

Regular Inspection and Cleaning

Regularly inspect your drainage system for signs of clogs, leaks, or damage. Check both indoor and outdoor drains, including gutters, downspouts, and storm drains.

Clean your drains periodically to remove debris, hair, soap scum, and other materials that can cause clogs. Use a plunger, plumber’s snake, or a drain auger for more stubborn blockages. Ensure gutters and downspouts are free from leaves, twigs, and other debris. Clean them at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall.

Pro Tip: Consider hiring professional hydro-jetting services for a thorough cleaning of your drainage pipes. This method uses high-pressure water to remove buildup and debris from the pipe walls.

Take Preventative Measures

Use drain guards or screens to catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the drain. This simple measure can prevent many common clogs. Avoid disposing of grease, oils, coffee grounds, and large food particles down the drain. These substances solidify and lead to blockages. So, keep them for compost or throw them in the trash.

Periodically flush your drains with hot water to help dissolve any grease or soap buildup. For added effectiveness, you can follow with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, then rinse with hot water.

Use Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme cleaners are a safe and eco-friendly way to maintain your drains. Most plumbing services in Manalapan recommend them. These cleaners use natural bacteria and enzymes to break down organic material in your pipes. Use enzyme cleaners monthly to keep your drains clear of buildup. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can damage pipes over time.

Try DIY Drain Unblocking Tricks

If your drain becomes blocked, there are numerous ways to unclog it and preserve your drainage system. These include:

• Plungers, which are frequently used for toilets, are among the first solutions that come to mind. These are excellent for straightforward unblocking jobs.
• Barbed tools are also available for clearing obstructions like hair accumulation at the drain opening.
• For stubborn blockages, use enzymatic or biological drain cleaners, as previously described. For optimal results, they can be frequently used or left overnight.
• If you are sure about the location of the clog, consider renting or purchasing a cable auger.

Bonus Tip: Educate Your Household

Make sure everyone in your household understands the importance of proper drain care. Educate them on what can and cannot be disposed of in the sinks, toilets, and garbage disposals. The more aware everyone is, the easier it will be to maintain a healthy drainage system.

Additional Tips for Specific Areas

Kitchen

• Always scrape food scraps into the trash or compost bin before washing dishes.
• In addition to drain screens, use a mesh strainer in your sink to catch smaller food particles.
• Foods like pasta and rice expand in water and cause clogs. Dispose of these items in the trash.

Bathroom

• Place a hair catcher over the shower drain to prevent hair from entering and causing blockages.
• Use liquid soap instead of bar soap, as bar soap tends to create more soap scum that can build up in drains.

Laundry Room

• If your washing machine drains into a sink, use a lint trap to catch fibers that can cause blockages.
• Overloading your washing machine can cause excess lint and debris to enter your drainage system.

Final Thoughts

A healthy drainage system not only prevents inconvenient and costly repairs but also contributes to the overall hygiene and safety of your home. If not addressed promptly, blocked drains can lead to water damage, plumbing issues, mold growth, and even structural damage. Additionally, stagnant water from clogged drains can become a breeding ground for bacteria and pests.

By implementing these tips and educating your household, you can prevent common drainage problems and ensure your plumbing system remains in good working order. Remember, a little preventative care goes a long way in keeping your home safe, clean, and free of plumbing issues.

Bob Hoegler Plumbing LLC Offers 24/7 Emergency Services

Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. Our 24/7 services ensure you are never left in the lurch. Whether it’s a burst pipe at midnight or a clogged toilet on a Sunday morning, we are just a call away.

Contact us today and experience the best plumbing services in East Windsor. Call 732.595.2078 or visit https://www.bobhoeglerplumbing.com/ to book your appointment.