How to Prevent Your Sewer System from Clogging

Sewer System From Clogging Conyers GA

Do you have a problem with a drain? Or maybe you just moved into a new residence and want to prevent your sewer system from clogging in the future. Clogs are one of the most common problems with residential sewer systems. They are also fairly easy to prevent as long as you understand everything in the system that can impact it, take some steps to stop bad habits, and perform regular tasks to maintain them.

Tips to Prevent Clogs in Your Sewer

Practice good waste disposal.

The majority of clogs happen because something that was flushed down the toilet or poured down the drain got stuck. Being careful is one of the best ways to prevent clogs. And that means you don’t want to get into the habit of using your toilet or drains as trash receptacles. Don’t flush anything other than a reasonable amount of toilet paper and human waste down the toilet.  Don’t pour anything that can be reactive, congeal, stick, or clump down the drain. Be aware of what your garbage disposal can handle. And be aware that large masses of anything can cause a problem. Even if it gets past the drain, objects can accumulate or get trapped in the sewer line to form a clog. If you suspect you have an object that is trapped in your drains, call your plumber and get it removed before your problem escalates.

Perform regular maintenance for cleaning your drains.

Your lines will have a natural amount of mineral deposits, waste and dirt that builds up in them. By maintaining your drains you can help minimize the build-up and keep your drains flowing freely. There are a number of drain cleaners on the market or make your own homemade mixture of vinegar and hot water. Pour the cleaner down the drain per the instructions about every few months. Use a toilet bowl cleaner or vinegar and hot water cleaner for your toilet, too. Every so often you might need to use a plunger for slower drains or temporary clogs. But if you find you need to use these regularly or a clog is getting worse, you should contact your local plumber.

Inspect and maintain the appliances in your sewer system.

Many people associate clogs with sink drains, but there is a number of openings for waste to drain into your sewer system. The main rooms that have lines connected to your sewer are your bathroom, kitchen, laundry/utility room and mudroom. Besides the drains from your showers, tubs and sinks, each of these locations could have appliances that drain into your sewer. Such appliances include your toilets, washing machine, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and water heater. It is important to properly maintain these appliances and understand what tasks can be done so they continue to drain properly. For example, your garbage disposal can be cleaned by adding some ice cubes and running it for a few minutes. Your washing machine and dishwasher drain lines should also be periodically checked to make sure they are clear of debris.

Regular inspections of your sewer system can alert you to a drainage problem or clog. High Priority Plumber can perform a sewer inspection in your home and recognize problems early. We also can clean your lines to keep them clear of minerals and debris. If you would like to schedule an inspection, want your lines cleaned or need repairs on your sewer system, call our office at 770.860.8110 in Atlanta.

Back Next