You should always be on the lookout for drain issues.

To keep your drains clear and sewers clean, you need to regularly clean them to prevent a clog from happening. A variety of things can quickly stop-up even the best plumbing systems, so you need to be proactive.

If you don’t, you could end up with a sewer backup that floods your home and causes a lot of frustration. Clogged drains can even be hazardous to you and your pets.

Read on to learn how you can keep your drains clear and improve the condition of your sewers with some of these simple tips.

Read our complete guide to preventative home maintenance today to learn how you can avoid costly repair calls or having your home or yard flooded by a sewer backup.

Have a Home Maintenance Plan

If your issue is a build-up of grease and grime, which is another common cause of blockages, you should probably begin a sewer line maintenance plan.

Begin with regular drain cleaning. Whether you do it yourself or get in the professionals, a preventative maintenance plan is always best.

You can also check out this handy 21 Point Home Maintenance Checklist to get you started.

Check Your Drain Clean-Outs

You’ll find your drain clean-out typically outside your home or in the yard. They protrude a few inches off the ground and look like capped pipes. These can start to stink if they get clogged up and dirty.

To clean, use a bit of bleach in the pipes every once in a while, and make sure they’re full of water. Always remember to replace the cap securely.

Invest in a Snake

No, not the reptile kind, but the one that removes minor clogs in your pipes like your laundry room pipes. Use them carefully, so they don’t damage your lines.

You feed the auger into the drain and then twist or cut through the clog. If you find the snake is unsuccessful, it’s time to call for a professional, which you can do with a quick “sewer and drain cleaning near me” search online.

Research Before You Plant

Before planting that tree you’ve always wanted, a little research can save you a considerable headache later. Tree roots are a common cause of blocked drains and damaged sewer lines.

Roots naturally spread to find water, so if the closest is your wastewater in your drain, the roots will head there, resulting in damage or clogs.

All Types of Cleaners

A quick and easy solution for minor clogs in your drains is baking soda and vinegar. When you combine these two ingredients, the chemical reaction causes the soda to effervesce, which helps break away any grime.

You can also use sewer cleaner, but use caution as too much drain cleaner can also damage your bare pipes. You can use this method a couple of times a year.

Unclogged and Smelling Fresh

Once you’ve implemented a good home maintenance plan, you shouldn’t have to worry about having drain issues like clogging. Bring in the professionals to deal with any tree roots that may be obstructing things, and you’re good to go.

If you implement regular preventative maintenance, sewer lines, drains, and pipes will no longer become clogged.

If you’re in Northwest Arkansas: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, and the rest of Washington and Benton County, contact us for a home evaluation.

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