At Gundlach’s Plumbing & Sheet Metal Co. Ltd, we know that few things disrupt your daily routine quite like a stubborn drain blockage. While we have been serving the Bakersfield community with good old-fashioned integrity since 1900, we prefer to help you avoid plumbing disasters before they start. A little preventative care goes a long way in maintaining a healthy home system. If you find yourself constantly reaching for the plunger, it might be time to rethink your daily habits. Here are our top tips to keep your pipes flowing freely year-round.

Be Careful What You Flush

Your toilet is designed to handle only two things: human waste and toilet paper. Unfortunately, many homeowners treat it like a trash can, flushing hygiene products, “flushable” wipes, and paper towels. These items do not dissolve easily and can create massive blockages deep in your sewer line, requiring a professional plumber to clear them out safely.

Respect Your Kitchen Garbage Disposal

The kitchen sink is a hotspot for clogs, mostly due to grease and fibrous foods. Never pour cooking oil or grease down the drain, as it solidifies and traps other debris. Additionally, avoid putting eggshells, coffee grounds, and potato peels in the disposal. We recommend scraping these food scraps into the trash or compost bin instead.

 Use Strainers to Catch Debris

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent clogs is by installing drain strainers in your showers and sinks. These inexpensive devices catch hair, soap scum, and food particles before they travel down your pipes. By emptying the strainer daily, you can stop buildup that would otherwise require the help of an expert plumber.

Schedule Routine Plumbing Inspections

Even with the best habits, residue can accumulate inside your pipes over time. Regular professional inspections allow us to catch small issues like slow drains or minor leaks before they escalate into major emergencies. Routine maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently and extends the lifespan of your home’s critical plumbing infrastructure, saving you money in the long run.

Skip the Liquid Drain Cleaners 

When faced with a slow drain, it is tempting to pour a bottle of store-bought chemical cleaner down the sink. However, we strongly advise against this quick fix. These harsh products often rely on caustic acids that generate intense heat. While they might clear a partial clog, they can also warp PVC pipes or corrode older metal plumbing—a significant risk for many established Bakersfield homes. Instead of risking long-term pipe damage for a temporary solution, stick to a plunger or call our team for safe removal.

Master the Water Temperature Rule 

Temperature plays a massive role in drain health. In the bathroom, flushing drains weekly with hot water helps melt away soap scum and toothpaste buildup. However, the kitchen requires the opposite approach. Always run cold water when using your garbage disposal. Hot water liquefies residual grease, allowing it to coat the inside of your pipes deep in the system. Cold water keeps fats solid, allowing the blades to chop them up so they wash away harmlessly.

Ultimately, maintaining a clog-free home is about being mindful of what goes down your drains. However, if you do encounter a stubborn blockage, Gundlach’s Plumbing & Sheet Metal Co. Ltd is here to help with 24/7 emergency service. Learn how Gundlach’s can restore your comfort today. Contact us for honest, upfront pricing on all your plumbing needs.

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