While we don’t claim to know it all, we have racked up a significant amount of working experience regarding all sorts of plumbing situations. Since sharing is caring, here are a few common questions we are asked concerning drain cleaning.
How frequently should I clean my drains?
It’s all about use. Yet, think of “use” in two ways. Frequency of a drain’s use matter, but it is just as important to consider how the drain is being used. For instance, a sink used to clean extremely greasy pots and pans six days a week will most likely need more frequent cleaning than one use for nominal cleaning.
Nevertheless, as a rule of thumb, most drains will continue to perform well if they are cleaned on a monthly schedule.
How can I clean my drain myself?
A good technique for a do-it-yourself drain cleaning is as follows:
- Boil a pot of hot water and pour it down the drain.
- Sprinkle a half cup of baking soda down the drain and allow it to rest there for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Boil 1 cup of water and vinegar. Pour this into the drain (you should see the baking soda react to this solution. Allow it to bubble for 15-20 minutes.
- Lastly, rinse the solution down the drain with hot water (or you can boil more water and pour it dour the drain).
- If you have a garbage disposal, fill the sink about halfway with ice and run your disposal. Turn on the cold water and let the ice pass through the disposal.
We’ve found that this technique is quite effective in ridding nearly any drain of potentially clogging materials.
How can I prevent drain clogs?
Simply put: avoid putting things down the drain that can get stuck in pipe bends or adhere to pipe walls. Items such as oils, grease, solid foods (if there is no garbage disposal), flushable wipes, feminine products, condoms, hair, paper towels, diapers, etc. should not be put down drains.
Drain Masters Plumbing is a full-service plumber in San Diego County focused on furnishing our clients with the latest options in plumbing.