There’s never a good time to have a Houston plumbing stoppage. Oftentimes, plumbing clogs are unexpected and need to be cleared as soon as possible. However, how do you avoid getting a Houston plumbing stoppage? Generally, clogs occur due to neglect or misuse of your drains and can often be prevented. Therefore, consider these tips from your Houston plumber to prevent drain and pipe clogs.
Items that Can Cause a Houston Plumbing Stoppage
A lot of people don’t realize what can and can’t go down their drains. Therefore, your Houston plumber often clears clogs caused by materials that should never go down your drains. While something may seem safe to go through your pipes, many materials can break down your pipes, cause build up, or obstruct your pipes. Therefore, to avoid a Houston plumbing stoppage, try not to flush or put these items down your drains:
- Eggshells
- Grease, oils, and fats
- Coffee grounds
- Paper towels
- Hair
- Feminine hygiene products
- Toxic chemicals like paint or antifreeze
- “Flushable” diapers
- “Flushable” kitty litter
It’s important to note that just because a product says it’s flushable doesn’t mean it’s good for your drains. Generally, these products just don’t break down well enough to go through your plumbing.
Preventing Clogs
In addition to keeping an eye on the items you flush or put down your drains, there are a few other things you can do to help prevent a Houston plumbing stoppage. For example, try using drain strainers on all your drains, including your kitchen and bathrooms. These products help catch items that could cause problems for your plumbing.
Additionally, you should clean your drains regularly. Make it a habit to pour a pot of boiling water down your drains once a month to help break up the buildup that could cause clogs. Also, you should schedule regular drain cleaning services to prevent a Houston plumbing stoppage. Generally, you should have your home’s drains cleaned and tested every one to two years, depending on your plumbing system.
When to Call Your Houston Plumber
However, sometimes clogs happen and are unavoidable. In these cases, you can try to break up the stoppage with a plunger. However, if you’re unable to unclog your plumbing, you’ll need the help of your Houston plumbing company. Your plumber will know the right technique to remove the stoppage. Additionally, it’s important to avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your plumbing. If your plumber does need to use a chemical drain cleaner for your Houston plumbing stoppage, they will choose the right chemicals specifically for your pipes and the clog.
At Santhoff Plumbing Company, we are a leading residential and commercial plumbing company with 46 years of experience repairing, replacing, and installing plumbing for customers in the Houston area. Above all, we believe that your safety and satisfaction is most important. Therefore, when you work with us, you get comprehensive services and thorough inspections. Additionally, we think it’s important to educate our customers on proper usage and maintenance to help prevent plumbing emergencies so you can rest at ease. Call us today at (713) 360-2185 to schedule an appointment or request emergency repair services. We are looking forward to learning how we can serve you!