Clogged drains are the unwelcome intruders of serene home life that no homeowner wishes to encounter. The kitchen, with its daily hustle and culinary adventures, is particularly vulnerable to this pesky problem. From dish washing to food prep, your sink does a lot for you.
However, a clogged kitchen drain is more than an inconvenience—it can also be a source of foul odors, mold growth, leaks, and much more. Keep reading to learn a few simple steps you can take to keep your kitchen drains clear and fully functional.
Use Your Garbage Disposal Properly
Garbage disposals are invaluable aids in handling kitchen waste. However, it's important to remember that they have limits. They should not be treated as invincible warriors against all forms of refuse. They are not intended to replace trash cans.
Foods to avoid putting in garbage disposals:
- Eggshells
- Coffee grounds
- Bones
- Pasta and rice
- Large amounts of vegetable peels
- Paper products
- Corn husks
- Shellfish
- Meat
For optimal waste breakdown, remember to use cold water and let the garbage disposal grind for at least a minute. This ensures the thorough decomposition of waste materials.
Rinse Drains with Hot Water
After each use, it is important to flush hot water down the drain to ensure that any residual food particles are effectively cleared, thereby preventing the formation of stubborn clogs.
If you find yourself frequently experiencing clogs, a proactive approach would be to regularly pour hot water down the drain. This practice helps to deter the build-up of debris and maintain the smooth functioning of your pipes in the long run.
Use a Mesh Strainer
To prevent clogs effectively and inexpensively, consider using a mesh drain strainer or basket. These handy tools make sure that non-liquids are caught in the trap instead of flowing down the drain.
When needed, simply remove the trap and dispose of the solids in the trash can. These strainers are especially useful when accidental food or non-food particles find their way into the sink.
Avoid Grease
To prevent potential blockages, it is important to never pour cooking oils or any type of grease down your kitchen drains. These substances have a tendency to bond with other solid materials, gradually forming large clogs that can wreak havoc on your plumbing system.
Instead, consider collecting the cooking grease in a dedicated container, such as a can or glass jar, and dispose of it properly in your trash can. By taking this simple precautionary step, you can help maintain the smooth functioning of your drains and avoid costly plumbing issues in the future.
Throw Away Food Scraps
Another tip to help avoid kitchen drain clogs is to develop the habit of diligently and meticulously scraping off any remnants of food from the plates into the designated trash or compost bin before washing them.
By doing so, you decrease the risks of having too much build-up in your garbage disposal.
Call the Professionals When Drains Are Tough
Despite your best efforts, some drain issues may persist or become too challenging to handle alone. In such cases, don't hesitate to contact professional plumbers.
When you hire us, you get:
- 24/7 plumbing emergency services
- Upfront pricing
- Over a decade of experience
- And much more
Our team at Smith's Plumbing Services offers high-quality drain cleaning services. We're equipped with the tools and expertise to resolve the issue promptly and prevent future problems.
Don't deal with your drain issues without a professional. Call (901) 290-1110 or fill out our online form for help!