Keep Things Flowing: How to Prevent Clogged Drains in Your Home

Clogged drains are one of the most frustrating (and let’s face it—gross) issues a homeowner can face. The good news? Most clogs can be avoided with a little bit of care and know-how. Here are some simple ways to keep your drains healthy, clean and free-flowing.

Everyday Prevention Tips

• Use Drain Screens: These inexpensive tools catch hair, food scraps and other debris before they go down the drain.

• Avoid Pouring Grease: Cooking oil and bacon fat may go down hot, but they harden as they cool and create sticky blockages.

• Run Hot Water After Use: Flushing your drains with hot water helps move along any small debris or soap residue.

• Limit What Goes in the Garbage Disposal: Fibrous veggies (like celery) and starchy foods (like rice and pasta) can clog up disposal units fast.
  

Safe DIY Options If You Have a Clog

• Boiling Water: Sometimes, a simple kettle of hot water poured slowly down the drain can break up minor grease clogs.

• Baking Soda + Vinegar: Pour ½ cup of baking soda followed by ½ cup of vinegar, wait 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

• Plunger: A sink plunger (not your toilet plunger!) can sometimes clear simple clogs in the sink or tub.

• Hair Pullers: Try using plastic barbed hair pullers if your bathtub drain is clogged. These can grab onto and pull hair out.

• P-Trap: If you’re comfortable, you can undo the P-Trap under your sink and see if the clog is in there. Be sure to tighten it back up good and test for leaks afterwards.
  

Avoid chemical drain cleaners they’re harsh on your pipes and often cause more harm than good.

When It’s Time to Call in the Pros

If your drains are frequently backing up or giving off foul odours, it might be time for a deeper look. At Norm’s, we offer professional drain cleaning, camera inspections, and even underground breakage locating and repair.

We’ll pinpoint the issue and fix it right the first time — without guesswork.

We’re proud to serve our community with honest, expert service that’s just a phone call away.