by Ray Mickol

Created on: September 05, 2008   Last Updated: October 07, 2008

Your drain runs slow or not at all. What do you do, call a plumber? In some cases you might have to. There are several things you before you have to make that costly call. Drain maintenance is easy and that clogged drain might be easier to get flowing again than you think. Here are a few helpful tips on keeping your drains cleaner longer.

Basic Drain Maintenance

Whether you are talking about sinks, shower, bath basement or driveway drains, there are a few basic maintenance tips on keeping your drains free flowing.
The best thing you can do to keep your drains cleaner longer and avert those costly plumbing bills is the use of an inexpensive strainer, this will catch hair and food particles that can accumulate in the drain and cause a clog. Strainers to fit your drain can be bought from your local hardware or home improvement store.
Watch what you pour down your drain. Don't pour cooking fats or oils down your drains. Don't pour motor oils down your driveway drain. These can solidify and cause the drain to run slow or even clog up.
If your drains are sluggish try running the hot water for about ten minutes. Sometimes this simple tip will get your drains running free again.
Weekly pour a large pot of boiling water into your drains. This will help your drains to run clean.
Keep your driveway drain clear of leaves.
A few tablespoons of baking soda put down your drains each week will not only help your drains smell better but will also help keep your drains free flowing.

Clogged Drains
Should your drain become clogged, try a few simple things before you call a plumber. Remember, never use caustic drain cleaners on a clogged drain. These can actually eat away at the drain pipe necessitating costly plumbing repairs.
Use a plunger. If the drain unclogs, run water down the sink for ten minutes to help clear the blockage away
You can put a solution of 1 cup vinegar with 2 tablespoons baking soda into the drain. If the drain unclogs, run water for ten minutes into the drain to help clear away the clog.
If you are a handy sort, you can snake your drain. Snakes come in all sizes from handheld ones that will clean out your household drains to large power snakes that will clean your main drain lines.

Remember, with drains an ounce of maintenance will help keep the plumber away.

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