A smoothly flowing drain is a homeowner's dream, but it's easy for this dream to turn into a nightmare if the wrong items find their way down the drain. Clogs are a common plumbing problem, and prevention is key to maintaining a healthy plumbing system.

Grease and Cooking Oils:

One of the most common culprits behind kitchen sink clogs is grease and cooking oils. When these substances go down the drain, they may appear harmless in liquid form, but as they cool, they solidify and coat the inside of pipes. Over time, this build-up can lead to stubborn clogs.

Tip: Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool and solidify in a container. Dispose of it in the trash.

Coffee Grounds:

Coffee lovers beware! While it's tempting to rinse coffee grounds down the sink, these tiny particles can accumulate and create a dense blockage. Over time, they can mix with other debris, forming a stubborn clog.

Tip: Dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them for composting.

Eggshells:

The membrane inside eggshells can wrap around the blades of your garbage disposal, causing it to jam. Additionally, the shells can break into small pieces that contribute to clogs in the drain pipes.

Stringy Vegetables:

Fibrous vegetables like celery, asparagus, and corn husks can become entangled in the blades of your garbage disposal, leading to blockages. Instead of letting these items go down the disposal, dispose of them in the trash or compost.

Tip: Cut fibrous vegetables into small pieces before disposing of them.

Paper Towels and Wipes:

While toilet paper is designed to break down in water, paper towels and wipes are not. These items can clump together and create blockages in both toilets and drains.

Tip: Dispose of paper towels and wipes in the trash, not the toilet or sink.

Hair:

In the bathroom, hair is a significant contributor to drain clogs. Whether it's from shaving, combing, or simply washing, hair can accumulate in pipes and trap other debris.

Tip: Use drain screens to catch hair and clean them regularly.

Preventing clogs is all about being mindful of what goes down the drain. By avoiding these common culprits, you can keep your plumbing system in top-notch condition and reduce the likelihood of experiencing frustrating clogs. Remember, if you find yourself dealing with a persistent blockage, don't hesitate to reach out to the experts at Frank's Mr. Plumber for professional assistance.