It’s easy to forget about your drains. They exist out of sight, and they can hardly be thought of as operating in a traditional sense. Drains are simply conveyances that take wastewater out of your house to either your septic system or the municipal sewer. It’s only when clogs and leaks crop up that the drain calls attention to itself. These problems tend to get worse during the winter, and not only because it’s cold. The holiday season is when the volume of grease, oils, fats, bits of food, and other refuse going down the drain increases. Here are some ways to keep your drains clear, even in the winter.
Have a Plumber Inspect Your Drains
It’s a good idea to have a plumber come in to inspect your drains just before the cold season arrives. A professional can find problems that a layperson would overlook. Not only that, they’ll be willing to go into places, such as a crawlspace, that you might not want to visit. They can also do maintenance jobs, such as cleaning out the main drain, that you might not want to do.
Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Drains
Outdoor drains such as your gutters are also vulnerable during the winter. Water can freeze in these areas and not only damage them but damage your house. The problems of ice and snow are made even worse when gutters, outside drains, and downspouts are clogged with fallen leaves and other debris. Make sure that these drains stay clear throughout the season.
Keep an Eye on Sinks and Tubs
Keep an eye on how well your fixtures drain. If your tub or sink has trouble draining or you hear gurgling noises, notice bad smells, or see bubbles, suspect that there’s a blockage starting to form somewhere in the drain. You might want to address the problem while it’s still manageable or call in a professional to see exactly what the problem is. Another sign of a clog is a toilet that overflows or comes too close to overflowing.
Flush the Drains Regularly
A simple way to keep the drains clear is to simply flush them with hot water every week or so. Hot water removes greasy residue, hair, and other debris that might create clogs. A more powerful solution is to make a paste of baking soda, rinse it down, and follow that with white vinegar. Finally, flush everything away with hot water.
Contact Us for More Winter Drain Maintenance Tips
Winter stresses your drainage system, and it’s important to make sure it’s kept clear and protected from leaks and other damage. To learn more ways to keep your drains in good order throughout the winter or enlist assistance with drain cleaning, don’t hesitate to call our professionals at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Cedar Rapids, IA.
