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How to Avoid the Most Common Plumbing Problem - the Clogged Drain

One of the most common plumbing problems is a clogged drain. A clog is by definition when a large item or several smaller items get lodged into a pipe. Of course, the best solution to this problem is to prevent it from occurring in the first place.

Below are some suggestions to help you avoid future clogs.

• In the tub or shower, invest in an inexpensive hair trap or screen to prevent the majority of hair and soap scum from going down the drain.
• Do not put anything down the toilet, except normal waste and toilet paper. Even the so-called “flushable wipes” can cause clogs.
• In the kitchen, don’t pour cooking grease down your drain. It will harden and coat your pipes with a sticky scum that will catch other particles and eventually clog the pipe. Instead, keep it in a coffee can or milk container and dispose of it with your garbage once it’s cooled.
• You should also avoid dumping coffee grounds down the drain. They’re notorious for causing clogs.
• Maintaining your drains on a regular basis is also a great way to keep your pipes clean and clear. We don’t recommend using a chemical drain cleaner. Most chemical drain cleaners are very toxic in nature. They’re not only harmful to the environment, but also especially dangerous to keep around the home if you have children or pets. Chemical drain cleaning products are very harmful to piping systems as well. Over time these chemicals deteriorate your pipes from the inside out. When this happens, the drain line(s) will have to be replaced. Don’t confuse toxic drain cleaners with the various drain maintenance products that are on the market. These products contain “friendly” bacteria and enzymes and work to keep drain sludge and grease from building up in the pipes.

Have questions? Contact us on our Ask An Expert webpage.

Sources:	www.heatrelieftoday.com
	www.ehow.com