With Buffalo summers come outdoor fun, cookouts and family gatherings- but if you’re not careful, these joyous memories can also lead to clogged drains and a call to the plumber. You may not realize what items are causing your drain to clog, so we’ve gathered up a list and provided some tips for preventing plumbing issues just in time for you to enjoy the Western New York summer sun!
WHAT CAUSES DRAIN CLOGS?
GRILLING & COOK-OUTS
Summer grilling and outdoor cooking involves a lot of grease, food scraps, and debris. Cleaning up and rinsing these sticky, stubborn substances down the sink causes build up inside the pipes. Over time, the grease can solidify, and food particles accumulate, leading to clogs.
Various foods such as celery, banana peels, corn husks, melon rings, chicken skin, and meat fats cannot be broken down properly in a garbage disposal. (Be careful when eating your favorite Buffalo chicken wings!)
Taking precautions after finishing a meal can prevent the need for repairs and save you a lot of money, time and aggravation!
Most importantly, do not pour grease down the drain. Allow it to cool and toss in a disposal container or install a grease trap to intercept fats and oils. Reduce the risk of costly repairs by using a sink strainer to easily collect solid waste and regularly empty it into the trash.
GARDENING & LANDSCAPING
Gardening and lawn-care upkeep can make your house feel like a home. Although the curb appeal is stunning, the aftermath can be a bit messy. Dirt, mud, and grass clippings have the potential to get into outdoor drains if not properly disposed. While washing your hands or gardening tools in the sink, it unwittingly can introduce soil particles and debris into your indoor plumbing system. This debris can lead to blockage in the drain or pipes if not flushed away adequately.
An effective way to protect outdoor drains is to use covers or grates. These barriers prevent leaves and dirt from entering the system. Basic upkeep and frequent inspection can ensure proper function after removing any accumulated debris that could be obstructing water flow.
POOL ACTIVITIES
Pool parties are a highlight of any hot summer day! If not properly managed, outdoor drainage issues can occur from splashing, improper grading, and pool water runoff. Poolside fun brings its fair share of debris such as sand, leaves, and grass clippings into contact with outdoor drains. As these materials get washed or swept away, they can accumulate in drain openings causing blockages that impede proper drainage and potentially lead to water pooling around the area.
With the unpredictable Buffalo weather, rain is likely to make an appearance. Rainwater combined with excess pool water can be a recipe for disaster.
It’s important to manage pool water runoff by directing water away from sensitive areas, ensure proper grading by creating slopes to encourage water flow, keep drains clear and maintain them frequently, and consult with a qualified professional if you are unsure about your drainage system or landscaping.
INCREASED FOOT TRAFFIC
Throughout summer, your plumbing system handles greater volumes of water and waste with more visitors, parties and kids being home from school. The increased use of showers, sinks, and toilets can put pressure on pipes and drains, making them vulnerable to clogs from unwanted materials over time.
Be mindful about what gets flushed down the toilet. Items like wipes, feminine products, and paper towels should never be flushed. Hair in the bathroom or shower can cause blockage in the drain, and one way to prevent this is to use hair catchers to effectively trap the hair along with soap scum and other debris.
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation that shouldn’t be interrupted by plumbing issues. If you do find yourself in some “hot water”, The Plumber Heating and Cooling, servicing all of Western New York, is here 24/7 for all your plumbing needs and helpful tips!
