How to Avoid Plumbing Stoppages

We rely on water to clear away our waste and yet we often take this precious commodity for granted. The best way to avoid plumbing problems in your home is to focus on the flow and develop a consciousness about where the water you use goes. Plumbing stoppages are one of those disgusting facts of life that most of us prefer to ignore when they occur. However, it is important to know when the plumbing problem is out of your control and that you should call your plumber to prevent it from escalating.

The best way to avoid stoppages is by becoming aware of the water and plumbing in your home. Educate your family on the value of water and the plumbing system in your house. Notice the garbage that goes into your disposal.

In the kitchen

Your kitchen sink can only take so much oil and fat and waste before there is a blockage, even with a garbage disposal to help. The pipes get coated and debris collects on the sticky insides. Make sure you wipe excess oil and fat off pans and plates. Remove uneaten food from pots, pans, and plates – especially meat, which takes a long time to break down. Install a drain filter and you could be spared the ugly truth.

In the bathroom

Bathroom drains are also susceptible to stoppages and when plumbing problems occur, even more dirty secrets are revealed. Oils and creams can accumulate on pipes and along with hair and body fat a very slow degrading mat is formed. Once again we can thank the plumbers for sorting out these problems. Installing a drain filter and regularly cleaning out hair after showering can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

Toilet troubles

The toilet can also get bogged down if we expect it to carry away more than it is designed to do. Teach your children from an early age that the toilet has one function only and watch out for random objects being tossed in – it may be a good lesson for youngsters to witness what a plumber has to deal with when unblocking toilets. Excess toilet paper, wipes, and sanitary pads will cause stoppages, and never throw dead pets into the toilet – as horrifying as this sounds, this practice does occur.

Dangerous drain cleaners

Clogged drains are never fun, and we often reach for an over-the-counter drain cleaner as a quick solution. However, this can be the worst thing to do! These products are harsh and dangerous – and can cause serious damage to your plumbing over time, as they are so caustic. Art Plumbing, AC and Electric has an all-natural, non-toxic, and effective drain cleaning system – Bio-Clean. Our plumbing professionals can safely and quickly remove stoppages using this environmentally friendly product. Consistent use of Bio-Clean can turn problem pipes into a healthy, free flowing plumbing system.

Problems further down the line…

Tree roots growing in pipes and degradation of pipes are a problem that can cause a huge stink in your neighborhood if not sorted out by professional plumbers, as the whole sewerage system will block up. Another cause of plumbing problems is the accumulation of debris and dead leaves in gutters and drains. Make sure these are cleaned often to prevent a build-up and possible flooding.

These are some of the basic ways to keep a healthy flow of water through your plumbing system. But if you ever do experience plumbing problems, it is important to have a good relationship with a professional plumber so that you can rest easy knowing that any plumbing problem you come across will be sorted out as soon as possible.