Oh No! The pipes are clogged and water is building up in the shower or sink! What do I do now? Don’t panic. The first thing you need to do is focus on unclogging the pipes. Sometimes a simple session, using a plunger will do the trick and get the pipes flowing as usual. But, there are other times when you need to call in a professional for further assistance.
Causes of Clogged Pipes
- Hair
- Soap Buildup
- Grease Buildup
- Objects
- Food Particles
Preventing Clogged Pipes
- Drain Protectors – If hair is the cause of your clogged pipes invest in screen drain protectors. You can purchase these affordable gadgets online or at your local hardware and home repair store. You place the screen protectors over your shower drains to catch the hair. It is recommended that you clean them frequently such as once or week or more.
- Use the Garbage Disposal Correctly – A garbage disposal is a valuable tool for households. It allows you to grind food instead of placing it in the garbage can which leads to odor and attracts pests such as roaches, ants, and rodents. Always flush the garbage disposal with water as you use it. Remember to cut large items into small pieces to make it easier for the garbage disposal to grind up the food.
- Clean the Pipes Regularly – You can keep your pipes in top condition by keeping them clean and preventing them from forming soap and grease buildup. The following tip will help keep the pipes clean and prevent clogs.
Tip
Pour one cup of white vinegar down the drain and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Then rinse it with hot tap water for one minute. The vinegar breaks down grime and grease keeping the pipes clear and preventing clogs.
If you already have clogged pipes you will want to determine if it’s something you can unclog or something a professional should handle. For example, if you have a clogged shower drain due to hair building up in the pipes you might be able to fix it yourself by using the plunger and preventing it from happening again in the future.
However, if you are not sure what is causing the clog you need to contact a plumber immediately for further assistance. Keep your pipes clean and clear from clogs with the information listed above. If you need further assistance contact me, Chip Mokher today!
Since 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com