How to Prevent Clogged Drains in Brooklyn

When you’re sprucing up your home and getting everything clean and new, it’s easy to overlook a crucial aspect of home maintenance—keeping the drains clean. Clogged drains can cause plumbing problems, including leaks and burst pipes. It also leads to harmful bacteria growth and can be an embarrassment when guests visit.

Read on to learn some of our best tips for keeping your drains in pristine condition and don’t hesitate to reach out to Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning if you have any questions or need to schedule drain cleaning in Brooklyn!

Signs You Have a Clogged Drain

Detecting a clogged drain early can save you from potential plumbing disasters and costly repairs down the line. Here are some telltale signs to watch out for:

1. Slow Drainage: One of the most obvious indicators of a clogged drain is water draining slowly from sinks, showers, or bathtubs. If you notice water taking longer than usual to disappear, it could signal a blockage in the pipes.
2. Foul Odors: Unpleasant odors emanating from drains, particularly in the kitchen or bathroom, are often a sign of accumulated debris or organic matter trapped within the pipes. These odors may worsen over time and can indicate the presence of bacteria or mold growth.
3. Gurgling Noises: Strange gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from drains when water is draining could suggest air trapped in the pipes due to a blockage. This phenomenon often occurs as water tries to pass through the obstructed pathway.
4. Water Backup: If water starts backing up in sinks, toilets, or other plumbing fixtures, it’s a clear indication of a severe clog in the drainage system. This backup may result in overflow or leakage, causing water damage to your property if left unaddressed.
5. Multiple Clogged Fixtures: When several drains in your home are experiencing issues simultaneously, such as both the kitchen sink and bathtub draining slowly, it could signify a blockage in the main sewer line. This requires prompt attention from a professional plumber to prevent extensive damage.
6. Visible Signs of Blockage: In some cases, you may notice visible signs of a clog, such as hair, grease, or food particles accumulating near the drain opening. Additionally, if you have a floor drain, standing water around it could indicate a blockage in the drainage system.
7. Repeated Clogs: If you find yourself frequently dealing with clogged drains despite attempts to clear them, it’s likely there’s a deeper issue within your plumbing system that needs professional inspection and repair.

How A Drain Gets Clogged & to Prevent It

Clogged drains are among the most common issues we see at Petri Plumbers. Here’s a look at each area and what to look out for and some DIY strategies for drain cleaning.

Kitchen Drains

Your kitchen is a main source of drain headaches, and garbage disposals often face the greatest challenges. It’s crucial to avoid discarding starchy or stringy foods such as potato peels, eggshells, coffee grounds, or banana peels.

Avoid the chemicals and try tossing half a cup of baking soda down the drain and following it with half a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture bubble and then flush it with hot water. This will also deodorize your drains and keep them from smelling bad.

Stay diligent about grease, which can pose a significant risk of clogging. Drain your grease in a jar or container and throw it out instead of putting it down your drain.

Bathroom Drains

The bathroom is a breeding ground for soap scum and hair clogging up your drains, and it requires regular cleaning. Drain strainers can catch hair and small objects, allowing the drain to continue flowing properly.

Pay careful attention to your toilets and what gets flushed. Sanitizing or baby wipes, paper towels, hygiene products, and kitty litter should never be flushed, as they don’t dissolve easily and can lead to toilet clogs.

Outside Drains

Outside drains are also susceptible to clogging, especially when near invasive trees. Roots can grow around piping in a way that inflicts damage and causes clogs. However, a proper inspection can identify these plants before they cause any issues. Remove debris and roots by hand and try flushing with hot water.

DIY Drain Cleaning Tips

While professional help is essential for persistent clogs, homeowners can take some proactive steps to maintain their clogs and prevent plumbing problems.

• Use drain guards to catch debris, particularly during seasons with increased outdoor activities
• Regularly flush kitchen drains with hot water and dish soap to prevent grease buildup
• Dispose of grease in the trash rather than pouring it down the sink
• Exercise caution with the garbage disposal, avoiding items that could lead to clogs
• Flush only toilet paper down the toilet

By adopting these preventive measures and maintaining a proactive approach to drain and sewer care, Brooklyn homeowners can enjoy clog-free drains, efficient plumbing, and a hassle-free living environment. Should challenges arise, don’t hesitate to contact plumbing professionals for expert assistance in keeping your home’s plumbing in optimal condition.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

That said, an annual check of all your drain pipes will not only save you money on your water bill but also ensure that the water goes down the unclogged drain, not on your floors and walkways, creating an introduction to two other words you never want to hear: mold and mildew.

Slow draining or draining that stops, plus a really, really bad smell coming from your draining pipes. These are indications that hiding out in your drain pipes somewhere is a “family” of “hair” and other waste products. However, our company knows where they live and can quickly and professionally remove all this “stuff” before it causes any further problems.

Call Petri Plumbing for Professional Drain Cleaning Today

Are you ready to prioritize your drains and plumbing with professional drain cleaning? Call our licensed Brooklyn plumbers today! Petri Plumbing can handle drain cleaning, sewer repair, emergency plumbing fixes, renovations, and so much more. Schedule your appointment today!