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. Here’s how to keep your plumbing running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.
Be Careful What Goes Down the Drain
The biggest cause of blocked drains is what we put down them. Be mindful of:
- Kitchen Sinks: Fats, oils, grease, food scraps, and coffee grounds are notorious for clogging pipes. Instead of washing these down, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the bin.
- Bathroom Drains: Hair, soap scum, and toothpaste build-up can block pipes over time. Use a drain catcher to stop hair from going down the plughole.
- Toilets: Only flush toilet paper and human waste—no wipes (even if they claim to be flushable), 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 to keep water flowing freely.
Flush Drains Regularly
A little maintenance goes a long way. Flush your drains with boiling water once a week to break down grease and soap scum before they cause a problem. For extra power:
- Baking soda & vinegar – 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.
- Salt & hot water – Great for breaking down grease in kitchen sinks
Keep Outdoor Drains Clear
Leaves, dirt, and debris can clog outdoor drains and gutters, leading to water pooling or flooding. To prevent this:
- Regularly sweep away leaves and debris, especially during autumn.
- Use drain covers to keep rubbish out.
- Ensure gutters and down pipes are clear so water flows properly.
Know the Warning Signs
Even with the best prevention, blockages can still develop. Keep an eye out for:
- Slow-draining sinks, showers, or tubs.
- Gurgling sounds coming from the drains.
- Unpleasant odors from the pipes.
- 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 specialized tools to clear out build-up that you can’t reach, ensuring your pipes stay in top shape.
A little prevention can save you from the hassle of dealing with a blocked drain. Be mindful of what goes down your pipes, do regular maintenance, and keep an eye out for early warning signs. If you ever need help, your local plumber is just a call away!
Got a stubborn drain issue? Contact Response Plumbing today for expert drain unblocking services in Auckland!
