Keep These Common Items Away from Your Sewer Lines

Slow draining sink? This is a common, though frustrating, plumbing headache for homeowners. However, when you know what you should and shouldn’t be putting down your drains, you can help prevent these issues and keep your plumbing running smoothly. Here are a few of the most common items that clog your sewer lines — be sure to keep them far away from your drains!

Common Items That Clog Your Sewer Lines:

 

  • Tree Roots – Plants are naturally attracted to water that is rich in minerals. If there is a small crack in your sewer line, you may find that tree roots will seek out this water source and clog your line.
  • Hard Water Deposits – Do you have hard water in your home? As the water dries, it can leave behind calcium deposits that make it difficult for water to flow freely through your plumbing system.
  • “Flushable” Wipes – Although they are promoted as flushable, you actually shouldn’t flush “flushable” wipes. These wipes do not break down or disintegrate, and can clog your drains.
  • Sanitary Products – You should never flush anything other than waste and toilet paper down your toilet. Sanitary products can clog your drains.
  • House Paint – Dispose of paint safely in the trash, not down the drain.
  • Pet Waste – Although your toilet is meant for waste, it should only be used for human waste. Pet waste, including cat litter, can clog your toilet.
  • Grease – Although bacon grease may look like a liquid in the pan, when it’s dumped down the drain, it solidifies as it’s cooled. The result? Hardened grease sticking to the sides of your plumbing pipes, reducing drain flow.

 

 

 

If you run into any problems with your sewer lines, do not hesitate to reach out to our professionals here at Barker & Sons Plumbing and Rooter. We offer a number of drain cleaning services, including hydro jet drain cleaning, that will help get your sewer lines back up and running.