Three Techniques To Help Keep Your Plumbing System Clear

2 January 2015 by Marvin Carroll

The old saying, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is especially true as it pertains to your plumbing system.  Backed up toilets and clogged sinks can not only throw a monkey wrench in your daily plans, they can also be extremely costly to repair.  The best way to avoid these inconveniences is to practice a few simple techniques that are designed to keep your plumbing system running as smoothly as possible.  Don't wait until your drains are blocked:  Use this information to learn more about what you can do to maintain a clear plumbing system.

Use Drain-Grates

Drain-grates can be thought of as strainers for your sinks.  They work to prevent items such as hair and soap chips from entering your drainage system.  Drain-grates are inexpensive and easy to install, making them the ideal way to protect your plumbing.

To use drain-grates, simply affix them over the drains in the sinks throughout your home.  You will likely be surprised at the amount of debris that they catch, and thankful that they prevented these items from going down your drain.  Be sure to empty the drain-grates about once a week so that they can continue to perform correctly.

Pour Vinegar Down Your Sinks

Although there are certainly liquid solutions on the market that can be used to clear your drains, they often contain chemicals that are harsh enough to cause damage to your pipes.  This could result in a leak that will eventually cause your water bill to skyrocket.

Instead of relying on chemical agents, use vinegar to keep your drains clear.  By pouring half a bottle of white vinegar down your sinks approximately every three months, you help to dissolve any clogs that could be forming within your drains.  Allow the vinegar to sit for about ten minutes, and then chase it with very hot water. 

Use 1-Ply Tissue

One little known culprit behind toilet blockages is the use of 2-ply tissue.  2-ply tissue is often quite thick, causing it to take a longer time to dissolve in the water than its 1-ply counterpart.  Over time, this buildup could cause your toilet to become stopped up because the tissue becomes stuck within the pipes beneath your commode.

The best way to prevent this problem is to use 1-ply tissue.  Because 1-ply tissue is so thin, it dissolves very quickly once it comes into contact with water.  An added benefit of using 1-ply tissue is that is usually priced lower than 2-ply versions.

You have what it takes to keep your plumbing system from becoming backed up.  Start using these tips today and talk to a company like Clark's Plumbing & Heating Corp so your pipes run free and clear.

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