Drain clogs can be extremely frustrating. They cause huge amounts of damage to the pipes and can cause serious health issues. Fortunately, you can prevent most drain clogs with just a few simple steps.
STEP 1: Clean Your Drain
The first thing you want to do is clean your drains. Use a good-quality drain cleaner and follow the directions on the container. Don’t use harsh chemicals or drain cleaners that contain bleach. It won’t do much good, and it will cause damage. To clear a drain that’s been clogged by hair, use a plunger. Make sure the area is clean and free of soap or other debris. Put the plunger over the drain and push and pull the plunger until the hair is cleared from the drain.
STEP 2: Seal the Drain
The second thing you need to do is seal your drain. Use a quality sealant and follow the instructions on the package. It’s important to use a quality sealant that will last longer than a temporary sealant. Avoid placing the can outside for long periods of time, as it could be exposed to extreme weather conditions. Can I use a spray sealant? Yes, but you may want to use an indoor/outdoor type spray sealant. This type of sealant has a higher flash point and is designed to keep food safe during outdoor activities.
STEP 3: Flush the Drain
The third thing you need to do is flush your drains regularly. Flushing drains helps dislodge debris from your pipes, and it also helps remove water that may be backing up into your sink or toilet. To flush your drains, first make sure that all of the water in your sink or toilet has been taken care of. Next, use a plunger to clear any debris from your drains. Finally, turn on your water supply and wait several minutes for the water to flow out of your drains.
STEP 4: Add a Drain Cap
Finally, you want to keep a drain cap on your sink or tub. This keeps debris out of the drain and stops it from being clogged. It also prevents backflow into your pipes and can save you a huge amount of money in the long run.
