Keep Your Pipes Clear: 7 Tips for Avoiding Clogs

When drains start giving warning signs, it’s important to listen. From strange gurgles to slow-draining water, addressing the issues before they evolve into larger headaches will save you from bigger disruptions (and higher costs). 

Being aware of daily habits that contribute to plumbing clogs is also important. The main culprits we see include sending the wrong food items down the garbage disposal and shedding hair into the shower drain, which accumulates over time. 

See our plumbing department’s seven tips for reducing clogs — and keeping things seamless (and flowing) at home.

1. Keep grease out of the drain

Grease, fat, and oil solidify as they cool. Try pouring grease into a container (like an empty can), and trash it once it solidifies.

2. Don’t overload the garbage disposal

Feed scraps slowly and with cold water running, while also avoiding putting these in the disposal:

• Fibrous foods (celery, onion skins, corn husks)
• Potato peels
• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Pasta and rice (which expand)

3. Use sink strainers

Prevent small bits of food from accumulating in pipes by using strainers to catch them first.

4. Run hot water after washing dishes

Let the tap water run hot and perform a 10–15 second flush (but avoid using boiling water) to help break up residue and wash away small particles before anything can build up.

5. Space out showers

During big gatherings, try to give the drain 10–15 minutes between showers so the pipes can clear.

6. Keep wipes and hygiene products out of toilets

Even “flushable” wipes don’t break down well. Make sure a small trash can is readily available.

7. Use drain screens

Holiday guests equal more hair in the drain, but you can reduce the amount that reaches the drain by using screens. 

Still need a plumber? Call us at 800-398-4663!