Quick Tips to Keep Your Sewer Lines Clean

As a homeowner, keeping your sewer lines clean is important to ensure that your plumbing system functions properly. A clogged sewer line can result in a range of problems such as slow drainage, foul odors, and costly repairs. However, you don’t need to be a professional plumber to keep your sewer lines clean. Here are some quick tips to help you maintain your sewer lines and avoid potential plumbing issues.

Be Mindful of What You Flush Down the Drain

One of the primary ways to keep your sewer lines clean is to be mindful of what you pour or flush down the drain. Avoid flushing sanitary products, paper towels, food waste, oil, and grease down the toilet or sink. These items can cling to the interior of your pipes, causing a blockage. Dispose of these items properly either in the trash bin or designated waste materials.

Use a Garbage Disposal Responsibly

A garbage disposal can be a convenient appliance in the kitchen, but it can also cause problems in your plumbing system if not used properly. Avoid dumping large food scraps into the disposal and avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. When using the garbage disposal, let cold water run for a few seconds before and after grinding the food scraps. This helps the food pieces to move down the sewer line easier.

Regularly Clean Your Drain Stoppers and Strainers

Drain stoppers and strainers can catch debris and hair, causing a blockage. Thus, it’s important to regularly clean them to ensure that water can smoothly flow through the pipes. Simply remove the stopper or strainer and use a brush or rag to remove the buildup. A clean drain stopper and strainer can prevent blockages and keep your sewer lines clean.

Use Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme cleaners are a natural and effective way to clean your sewer lines. These cleaners contain live bacteria and enzymes that eat away at the blockages in your pipes without causing damage. Enzyme cleaners can remove blockages, prevent foul odors, and promote healthy bacteria growth in your plumbing system. Simply pour the cleaner down the drain and let it sit for a few hours before flushing it with water.

Tree Roots

Tree roots can cause extensive damage to your sewer lines. To avoid this problem, it’s important to be mindful of where you plant trees and shrubs in your yard. Avoid planting them near the sewer line or foundation of your home. If you suspect that you have a tree root problem, contact a local plumber to assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Regular Professional Maintenance

Regular professional maintenance can go a long way in preventing potential plumbing issues. A professional plumber can inspect your sewer lines and identify any potential problems before they worsen. A plumber can also clean and clear any blockages in your pipes using specialized equipment. Schedule a routine cleaning with a plumber every few years or whenever you suspect that you have a problem.

Conclusion

Keeping your sewer lines clean is essential to maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system. While it may seem like a daunting task, with these quick tips, you can easily keep your sewer lines clean and avoid problems such as blockages and foul odors. Remember to be mindful of what you pour or flush down the drain, use a garbage disposal responsibly, regularly clean your drain stoppers and strainers, use enzyme cleaners, avoid planting trees near the sewer line, and schedule regular professional maintenance. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing system remains in tip-top shape.