How to Prevent and Clear Clogged Drains in Your Home?

You can prevent your home from fire incidents, but you can’t escape from clogging problems. Since we live in a tropical country, we often experience floods and typhoons. That is why we always opt for a house and lot in the Philippines with high elevations. And let’s accept it, every time there’s heavy rainfall, we still worry about our drains and gutters, whether clogged or not.  

But don’t fret! There are several ways how to prevent clogged drains in your home. Check out our recommended tips you can consider.

7 Helpful Tips for Avoiding Clogged Drains

A clogged drain can be a major headache, but there are plenty of ways to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Here are some effective tips you can do before seeking help from plumbing services.

Properly dispose of your waste.

One of the leading causes of clogged problems is improper garbage disposal. To prevent this from happening, make sure you dispose of waste properly. Place sanitary napkins, toilet paper towels, and food scraps in the trash can instead of down the drain. Use a compost bin for organic waste and properly dispose of any hazardous materials, including paint thinner and oil-based products.

Avoid pouring grease down the drain.

Grease is also a common cause of clogged drains, so avoid pouring it down the kitchen sink. Instead, use a grease trap to collect and dispose of the grease properly. You can also let the grease solidify and scrape it into the trash can.

Use drain screens.

Using drain screens is an effective way to prevent clogs. These can catch hair, food particles, coffee grounds, and other debris before they enter the kitchen or bathroom sink. You can purchase drain screens at your local hardware store or use a mesh screen. Using a drain snake can also help clogged drains.

Clean your drains regularly.

Regularly cleaning your kitchen or bathroom sink drains is also crucial in preventing clogs. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners. Instead, use a bacterial drain cleaner to break down any organic material and soap scum that may have accumulated in the drain. You can also use a homemade drain cleaning solution from baking soda and vinegar. Pour the mixture into the drain and let it stay for minutes before flushing it with hot water.

Do not flush non-degradable items.

As mentioned above, non-degradable items such as feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and dental floss can cause clogs in your shower drain. Get rid of these items properly by throwing them in the trash can instead of flushing them down the toilet. Educate your family members to let them know that doing so can cause clogged drains. It can also be helpful if you place signage to let them reminded every time they use the toilet.

Trim trees and plants near your drainage system.

Did you know that tree roots can cause significant damage to your drainage system? As a matter of fact, it can even lead to leaks and further damage your drainage system. Therefore, trim any trees or plants that are near your drainage system. This will also help prevent leaves and other debris from clogging your gutters.

Maintain your gutters.

Maintaining your gutters play an important role in preventing clogs in your drainage system. Thus, regularly clean your gutters of any leaves, debris, and other organic material that may have accumulated. This will help prevent clogs and ensure your drainage system runs efficiently.

5 Natural Homemade Drain Cleaners That Actually Work

Meanwhile, you can also create your own homemade cleaning solutions in your home. But remember! These homemade drain cleaners can only be effective for minor clogs. If you have a persistent clog or suspect a more serious issue, it's best to call a professional plumber.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

This classic combination is effective at removing minor clogs and deodorizing drains. All you have to do is pour boiling water down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of baking soda. Let the baking soda stay for a few minutes, and then pour a mixture of vinegar and hot water down the drain. Cover the kitchen sink drain with a rag or plug to contain the fizzing reaction, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and flush it with another pot of boiling water.

Salt, Baking Soda, and Vinegar

Besides baking soda and vinegar, you can add salt for extra abrasive power. Combine 1/2 cup of salt, 1/2 cup of vinegar, and 1 cup of baking soda in a bowl. Pour the mixture into the drain, let it sit for a few minutes, and flush it with hot water.

Hot Water and Dish Soap

This homemade cleaner is great for preventing clogs and removing minor buildup. Simply squirt a generous amount of dish soap into the drain, and then, followed by a pot of boiling water. The soap helps break down grease or food particles, while the hot water flushes them away.

Salt and Hot Water

If you're dealing with a minor clog, pour 1/2 cup of salt down the drain, followed by a pot of boiling water. The salt helps to break down grease and another buildup, while the hot water flushes it away.

Borax, Salt, and Vinegar

Borax, salt, and vinegar, when combined, are also effective for removing stubborn clogs. Mix 1/4 cup of salt and 1/4 cup of Borax in a bowl, and pour the mixture down the drain. Follow this with 1/2 cup of vinegar, and cover the drain with a plug or rag to contain the reaction. After 15-20 minutes, flush the drain with hot water.

You could lose the value of your home if clogged drains are left unsolved. Therefore, it is best to practice regular cleaning and maintenance, especially if you want to earn from your real estate investment property.

However, you can always have a better option. Choose an affordable house and lot in Lumina Homes. Each home is designed to withstand heavy rains and is sturdy enough to prevent your drains from clogging due to rust and other foreign debris entering your drainage system. 

For complete house specifications, you can visit the nearest Lumina office. You can also ask our accredited sellers or agents for a home tour of our affordable house and lot for sale properties nationwide at any of our 50 locations.