How to Prevent Drains from Getting Blocked in the First Place
Blocked drains are a nightmare. Slow water flow, nasty smells, and the risk of an overflowing sink or toilet — it's something no one wants to deal with. The best way to tackle blocked drains? Stop them from happening in the first place.
Be Careful What Goes Down the Drain
The biggest cause of blocked drains is what we put down them. In the kitchen, fats, oils, grease, food scraps, and coffee grounds are notorious for clogging pipes — collect them in a container and dispose of them in the bin. In the bathroom, use a drain catcher to stop hair from going down the plughole. In the toilet, only flush toilet paper and human waste — no wipes, sanitary products, cotton pads, or nappies.
Use Drain Guards
A simple and affordable way to prevent blockages is to install drain guards or strainers. These sit over your sink, shower, or bath plughole and catch debris before it enters your pipes. Just empty them regularly.
Flush Drains Regularly
Flush your drains with boiling water once a week to break down grease and soap scum. For extra power, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar, let it fizz for 10 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
Keep Outdoor Drains Clear
Leaves, dirt, and debris can clog outdoor drains and gutters, leading to water pooling or flooding. Regularly sweep away leaves, use drain covers, and ensure gutters and down pipes are clear.
Know the Warning Signs
Even with the best prevention, blockages can develop. Watch for slow-draining sinks, gurgling sounds, unpleasant odours, and water pooling around external drains. If you notice these signs, call a plumber before the problem worsens.
Get Professional Drain Cleaning
For peace of mind, consider professional drain cleaning once a year. Plumbers have specialised tools to clear build-up that you can't reach. Got a stubborn drain issue? Contact Response Plumbing today for expert drain unblocking services in Auckland.
