Having to repair or replace drainage systems can be a costly and inconvenient process. When it comes to plumbing, taking steps to prevent problems like a blockage is always best.
From small steps you can take each day to bigger maintenance jobs, here are The Relining Company’s top tips to maintain clean pipes and drains for the long-term health of your plumbing system.
Daily Practices for Drain Health
Taking steps each day to prevent a drain blockage will save you a lot of hassle in the long run. The best way to prevent a clog is to watch what you’re sending down the drain.
Some things should never be flushed down a toilet or washed down sinks. Human waste and toilet paper are the only two things that should ever go down the toilet. Nothing else!
In the sink, it’s liquids only. However, when it comes to the kitchen sink, oils are a big no-no. Oil can quickly solidify and cause blockages that no amount of hot water can shift. Food scraps and small pieces of rubbish belong in the rubbish disposal or bin. Never put them down a kitchen sink.
Hair is a huge problem in the bathroom sink, shower and bath. Use hair traps over the basin and shower drains to remove the risk of a messy, disgusting hair clog.
If you rent your home, you should install these yourself if they are not already present, as in most states, including New South Wales and Queensland, tenants are responsible for paying to clear blocked drains if they have caused them.
Lastly, educate your whole family on what can go down the drain and what can’t. It’s not just your own home’s plumbing system that can be affected if you get it wrong.
Monthly Drain Maintenance Routines
You should regularly flush your drains to get rid of soap scum build-up, grease that’s lining your pipes, rotting debris and hair that can cause tangles and clogs. The best way to do this is to use natural solutions.
Chemical drain cleaners are not great for plumbing. They can cause chemical reactions with other products that are tipped down the drain, resulting in the deterioration of pipes and other parts of the plumbing system.
Wastewater treatment plants are designed to treat organic materials, not harsh chemicals, so don’t use them. Instead, use a mixture of vinegar, hot water and baking soda or one of these other natural remedies.
Quarterly and Annual Drain Maintenance Tips
Regular drain cleaning with an enzyme cleaner is an eco-friendly way to get good bacteria working for you. An enzyme cleaner will remove a build-up of organic substances such as food particles in a kitchen drainage system while also getting rid of stains and smells. Enzyme cleaners can be bought from leading hardware stores.
A drain inspection by a plumber each year is also recommended to keep your plumbing in top condition and save your home from water damage.
Having your plumbing system regularly inspected (particularly if it is nearing the end of its lifespan) ensures that any small problem such as a crack, clog or leak, is detected before it becomes a major issue.
Early detection means plumbing issues can be fixed with innovative and non-invasive methods such as pipe relining, instead of having to excavate around your property to completely replace pipes that have deteriorated beyond repair.
Signs of Drainage Issues
All homeowners should learn the signs of a blocked drain. They can include:
- Slow water flow. If water is draining slowly, you probably have a blockage somewhere in your plumbing system.
- Gurgling or bubbling sounds. Unusual sounds coming from pipes and drains are usually caused by air being trapped. Don’t ignore it, get it checked by a professional.
- Low water level in the toilet. Or water rising above the normal level after flushing and slowly draining away.
- Foul smells from drains. This can include sinks, toilets and showers.
- Overflowing drains. It’s called a ‘drain’ for a reason. If water isn’t flowing away from your home and is pooling in showers or sinks, it’s a sure sign of trouble.
It’s Never Too Late to Start A Drain Maintenance Routine
Think you might have a drain blockage? Before you reach for the plunger, consider using professional drain cleaning services. Without the proper knowledge and equipment, DIY methods can lead to more problems for your pipes and yourself.
Don’t risk injury or exposure to harmful bacteria. Professional inspections can help find the cause of the problem as well as unblock your drain.
The Relining Company can unblock sewer and stormwater drains, perform camera inspections to find the root of the problem and reline your pipes to prevent further blockages if necessary.
We’re a one-stop-shop! Give us a call today on 0404 855 166 for more information on how we can help you keep your drains in tip-top shape.
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