Jun10

By Dave Bangar

How Often Should You Clean Your Drains? Expert Advice from My Plumber Kelowna

Maintaining clean drains is essential for the proper functioning of your home’s plumbing system. Regular drain cleaning helps prevent clogs, unpleasant odours, and potential water damage, but how often should you clean your drains? Here, My Plumber Kelowna provides expert advice on the signs of drain issues, DIY drain cleaning tips, and when it’s time to call a professional plumber.

Signs of Drain Issues

Recognizing the early signs of drain problems can save you from costly repairs and extensive damage. These general signs that your drains need attention warrant a DIY cleaning:

• Slow draining
• Unpleasant odours
• Gurgling noises while water drains 
• Frequent clogging

How to Clean Your Drains

There are some simple DIY tactics that you can use to clean your drains without the help of a plumber. In some cases this will be enough to resolve your drain issues, in others, it might serve as a temporary solution. If your drain problems persist after some DIY efforts, that is a good indication that your drains are due for a professional cleaning.

Here are some free DIY drain cleaning methods to try:

• Pouring boiling water down your drains can help dissolve grease and soap scum that may be causing blockages. This method is especially effective for kitchen sinks.
• A natural and effective way to clean your drains is to use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
• A good old-fashioned plunger can be an effective tool for clearing minor clogs in sinks and toilets. Make sure there’s enough water to cover the plunger’s head, then use a firm up-and-down motion to dislodge the blockage.
• A drain snake, or plumber’s auger, is a tool that can reach deep into your pipes to clear more stubborn clogs. It’s a flexible, coiled tool that you can insert into the drain and manually rotate to break up the blockage.
• Enzyme-based drain cleaners use natural bacteria and enzymes to break down organic material in your drains. They’re less harsh than chemical cleaners and are safer for your plumbing system.

Why You Should Clean Your Drains Regularly

Routine drain cleaning offers several benefits that are crucial for maintaining your home’s plumbing system. By regularly clearing out debris, you can prevent clogs from forming, which not only avoids the inconvenience of frequent blockages but can also eliminate foul odours, keeping your home environment fresh and pleasant. 

This regular maintenance also contributes to the longevity of your plumbing system by preventing the accumulation of corrosive substances that can wear down pipes over time. Ensuring that your drains are clear and free-flowing improves overall drainage efficiency, reducing the risk of water backups. Ultimately, these preventative measures can save you significant money by avoiding major clogs and plumbing emergencies.

When to Call a Professional Plumber 

While regular cleaning can prevent many drain issues, there are times when professional help is necessary. Here’s how to know that the issue is serious enough to call for professional help:

• Persistent Clogs: If you’ve tried cleaning your drains but continue to experience frequent clogs, it’s time to call a professional. Persistent clogs often indicate a deeper issue within your plumbing system that requires specialized tools and expertise to resolve.
• Water Backups: Water backing up into your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets is a sign of a severe blockage. A professional plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs to prevent further issues.
• Unpleasant Odors: If foul smells persist despite your efforts to clean your drains, a plumber can thoroughly clean and inspect your pipes to eliminate the source of the odour. Lingering odours can indicate a more serious problem such as a sewer line backup.
• Regular Maintenance: Even if you don’t notice any immediate issues, scheduling regular drain cleaning with a professional can help prevent future problems and keep your plumbing system in top condition. 

Call My Plumber Kelowna for Stubborn Drains or Emergency Plumber Services

If you’re experiencing stubborn drain issues or need emergency plumbing services, don’t hesitate to contact My Plumber Kelowna. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to handle any plumbing problem, big or small. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.