Keeping your drains and sewer lines clean is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home and avoid costly repairs. At A Plus Priority Plumbing, we’ve helped many Powder Springs homeowners just like you prevent clogged drains and maintain healthy plumbing systems. With over 50 years of combined experience, we know what works and what doesn’t. Today, I’m sharing my top 10 drain cleaning tips to help you keep things flowing smoothly.
1. Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain
One of the most common causes of pipe blockages is cooking grease. When grease cools down, it sticks to the inside of your pipes, creating a thick sludge that traps food and other debris. Instead of throwing grease down the sink, let it cool and toss it in the trash. This simple habit is one of the best pipe blockage solutions we can recommend.
2. Use Drain Strainers in Sinks and Showers
Hair, food scraps, and small objects can quickly cause a clog if they slip down your drain. That’s why we always suggest using drain strainers. These affordable tools catch debris before it enters your plumbing system and are a key part of any home drain maintenance routine.
3. Run Hot Water After Each Use
After using your shower, run hot water for about 30 seconds. This helps push any lingering soap, grease, or particles through the pipes before they have a chance to build up. It’s a simple drain cleaning tip that we use in our own homes.
4. Clean Drains with Baking Soda and Vinegar Monthly
Every month, pour a half cup of baking soda followed by a half cup of white vinegar down each drain. Wait for 10 to 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. This natural method helps break down buildup without using harsh chemicals and is one of our favorite clogged drain pipe solutions.
5. Don’t Ignore Slow Drains
If your sink or tub is draining slowly, don’t wait until it becomes a full-blown clog. Slow drains are usually a sign of a buildup starting to form. Taking care of the problem early can save you from dealing with bigger issues later. This is where professional sewer line cleaning may come in handy if natural solutions don’t work.
6. Avoid “Flushable” Wipes
Even though some wipes are labeled “flushable,” they don’t break down the same way toilet paper does. Over time, they can cause serious clogs in your sewer system. We’ve handled countless jobs where wipes were the main culprit. For better home drain maintenance, it’s best to toss wipes in the trash instead of the toilet.
7. Be Mindful of What Goes in the Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are helpful, but they’re not made to handle everything. Avoid putting eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, rice, and fibrous vegetables like celery or corn husks down the disposal. These items often tangle or swell and cause blockages. Following this drain cleaning tip can extend the life of your disposal and your plumbing.
8. Get a Professional Sewer Inspection Every Few Years
Even if everything seems fine, it’s smart to schedule a sewer line cleaning and inspection every two to three years. This is especially important for older homes in Powder Springs, where tree roots or corroded pipes may cause hidden issues. We use high-tech sewer cameras to check your pipes and stop problems before they get worse.
9. Install a Backwater Valve
If you’ve ever had sewage back up into your home, you know how awful it can be. A backwater valve prevents this by blocking wastewater from re-entering your home during heavy rain or when the main sewer is overwhelmed. It’s one of the smartest clogged drain pipe solutions you can invest in if you want long-term peace of mind.
10. Call a Licensed Plumber for Recurring Clogs
If your drains keep clogging even after you’ve tried everything, it’s time to bring in a professional. Persistent clogs may point to bigger problems like collapsed pipes or root intrusions. At A Plus Priority Plumbing, we offer full pipe blockage solutions including hydro-jetting, camera inspections, and emergency services to fix the issue fast.
Why Choose A Plus Priority Plumbing?
At A Plus Priority Plumbing, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Powder Springs and surrounding areas. Our team is available 24/7, and we always offer upfront pricing, honest advice, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether it’s regular home drain maintenance or a sudden sewer backup, we’ve got your back.
We know how frustrating a clogged drain can be, especially when it slows down your day or puts your home at risk. That’s why our skilled plumbers use only proven methods and the latest tools to handle everything from small fixes to full sewer line cleaning jobs. No guesswork, just quality work that lasts.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your drains doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a little effort each month and a few smart habits, you can keep your plumbing running like new. Follow these drain cleaning tips, and you’ll not only avoid emergencies but also extend the life of your pipes.
If you ever run into a problem you can’t fix on your own, don’t wait, give us a call. We’re your local experts for clogged drain pipe solutions, pipe blockage solutions, and everything in between. Let A Plus Priority Plumbing help you prevent clogged drains and protect your home for years to come.
