A clogged pipe in the home can be a serious problem that can lead to bad smells, germs, insects and plumbing costs.
To avoid these extremes, the best thing to do is keep the pipes as clean and well cared for as the first day, thus avoiding the accumulation of organic remains, limescale and other substances that can be poured down them.
It is always an option to seek a drain pipe repairs expert if you have a major problem.
How To Keep Pipes Clean
The best option is to hire a drainage company to clean your pipes, but if you follow these steps, you can help maintain your home for much longer.
Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain
If you are one of those who pour all kinds of substances down the sink, you should know that you will end up clogging them up and ruining them sooner or later.
One of the forbidden substances is oils, which are very harmful because they form a film around the pipe that will prevent the water from circulating properly and a polluting substance that will end up directly in the seas rivers.
Pouring Boiling Water Down the Drain
Once a week, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to help remove grease and bad odours.
Don’t Flush Papers or Hair Down the Toilet
Many wet papers claim to be degradable, but just in case, it is always best to dispose of them in bins. The same goes for hair that falls; the hair will form a blockage in the pipes that can cause serious problems.
Putting in Protective Grates
One way to stop unwanted products from going down the drain is to use a drain guard. Organic debris will accumulate on them and will be easier to remove.
Don’t Use the Sink as a Waste Bin
Before putting any crockery in the sink, check that there are no food leftovers in it. These should go directly into the rubbish bin without going through the sink if possible.
Tips for unblocking pipes and drains
If you have not yet put these simple measures into practice, you may have to deal with a clogged pipe. If you want to learn how to unblock a drain yourself without calling in a professional until it is absolutely necessary, we will show you how.
Blockages can occur in two places: in the drain or in the pipes.
In the Drain
You will usually have to dismantle the siphon or trap to remove the debris that is causing the blockage.
This part is easily identified as it has a curved shape placed between the drain and the pipes. Its function is to prevent leaks, neutralise bad smells from the pipes and prevent insects from entering your home through the pipes.
In the Pipes
To find out the degree of clogging, you have to check if the pipe sucks water, even if it is slowly. If this is the case, it is most likely that the clog is due to an accumulation of organic remains, soap or grease in the pipes. To eliminate them, here are some tips:
– Pour boiling water.
– Pour baking soda and then a few glasses of hot water. Leave it to act and then pour a little more bicarbonate of soda with half a glass of vinegar. These two products will make an effervescent effect that will remove the debris stuck to the pipes.
