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No plumbing system is perfect. Water heaters, pipes, and faucets fail all the time. However, with the right preparation, you can set yourself up for success! Keep in mind these do’s and don’ts so your system can last as long as possible.
The Don’ts
Unfortunately, your pipes can’t handle everything under the sun. Keep in mind these “don’ts” so you can avoid causing harm to your plumbing system, and start off on the right foot! You control what you put down your drains!
Toxic Drain Cleaners
Easy fixes are appealing to everyone. On the surface, it might seem that a commercial drain cleaner can clear a clog quickly, effectively, and conveniently, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. They can actually harm your pipes, damage the environment, and pose a risk to you and your family’s health.
They Will Damage Your Pipes!
Drain cleaners utilize powerful caustic chemical reactions. They lack precision, as they burn through anything and everything they touch. Even modern PVC piping will warp and melt when introduced to commercial drain cleaners. Older metal pipes fair even worse with these solutions. Although you may indeed clear your clog, you probably caused expensive damage to your plumbing in the process.
They Harm Our Shared Environment!
Everything that goes down your pipes ends up in the sewage system. Your waste, toilet paper, and water are all compatible with the sewage treatment plant; however, their technology is not able to separate or process harsh chemicals. That’s why we have special protocols in place for the disposal of hazardous waste. If you put chemical cleaners down your drain, it will end up in the water supply.
They’re Toxic!
As reported by US Poison Control, harsh cleaning chemicals poison over 100,000 children, under the age of six, every year. And that’s just in the U.S.! If you are in possession of any harsh cleaning chemicals, make sure they are stored well out of reach. You want to take every precaution when it comes to your children—spilling or ingesting these products can result in detrimental harm to their health.
Garbage Disposal Etiquette
Your garbage disposal is your kitchen drain’s best friend. It helps chop items up so your plumbing can move them along with ease. However, not all items are conducive to this process. Here are the main items you want to avoid putting down your garbage disposal:
- Bones
- Grease
- Celery and Other Fibrous Veggies
- Potato Peels
- Coffee Grounds
- Egg Shells
- Processed Carbs
The Do’s
Now that you know what to avoid, we can talk about some of the proactive measures you can take to protect your pipes.
Use Water
You can help protect your pipes against clogs by simply running water through your plumbing! This easy step will help reduce built-up debris in your drains. If you feel like your drainage is slowing down, pour boiling water down your sink. This will help remove any unwanted grease or scum that is clinging to your pipes.
Additionally, if you have faucets or fixtures that don’t get a ton of use, maybe in your guest bathroom or your office space, run water through them about once a month to keep your plumbing activated!
Use Natural Remedies
Normally, we say to air on the side of caution when it comes to trending DIY solutions; however, DIY cleaning solutions that use vinegar and baking soda are actually great for keeping your plumbing fresh in between professional maintenance appointments. Baking soda and water can combat odors and wash away debris, while the vinegar uses its mild acidity to breakdown any mineral buildup without harming your pipes.
Talk to the Pros
Ultimately, professional drain cleaning is the best way to ensure your plumbing is healthy long-term. Schedule annual drain cleanings and your plumbing will remain in tip-top shape, year-round.
Centennial Plumbing, Heating & Electrical is here to keep your plumbing flowing! Feel free to give us a call at (306) 500-7392 or fill out an online contact form to set up an appointment.