A majority of the calls that we get are related to clogged drains. Many times this is due to an accumulation of grease from cooking oils and fats that were improperly disposed of. Putting these substances down your drain is an invitation to problems. As the grease accumulates, it can actually close off the pipe opening, which can lead to a backup and potential damage to your house. At General Plumbing, we recommend that you follow these easy steps to ensure that you have no grease in the drain.
Dispose of Grease Properly
Used cooking oils, fats and grease should be cooled down and then poured into a covered container, which can be thrown out in the trash. Wipe out any remainder on your pans by using paper towels, before washing. Make sure that your drain is covered so grease doesn’t find its way down your drain. Remember, your kitchen mantra is: no grease in the drain.
How to Clear Your Drain
If you already have a problem with grease in the drain, and if the drain is not too clogged, you can clear the line by using a plumber’s snake or a power jetter. Alternatively, you can also try a solution made from equal parts of white vinegar and baking soda (1/2 cup each). Let the solution sit in the drain for 15 minutes. Follow with a pot full of hot water.
It is good to run very hot water down your drain every few weeks. This drain cleaning will take care of small bits of fat that may get through. However, do not believe that you can put greasy substances down your drain as long as you run hot water at the same time. As soon as the pipe cools down, the grease will harden.
Make sure that you permit no grease in the drain and that your family understands the importance of this. Periodically run hot water down your drain, and address any clogs as soon as you notice a problem. This way, you will keep your kitchen drain operating at full efficiency. If you cannot solve your clogged drain problem, contact our master plumbers by calling General Plumbing at (561) 771-0086.