Blocked drains can be a serious inconvenience and disrupt the normal functioning of your household while blocked drains can also occur at the most inopportune moment. However, by using a few preventive measures and good habits, you will be able to significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering a blocked drain in your residential property. You could keep on reading this article to learn about practical advice that can prevent blocked drains and maintain a smoothly running plumbing system in your home.
- Do not pour grease down the drain
- Use a drain strainer
- Dispose of food waste
- Regularly maintain the drains to ensure they are clean
- Educate your household about how to use the drains
Table of Contents
1. Do not Pour Grease Down the Drain

One of the leading causes of blocked drains in the North Shore is the build-up of grease and oil in the pipes. Instead of pouring cooking fat, grease or oil down the drain, you should collect it in a container and dispose of it properly. Grease and oil can solidify in the pipes over time, attracting other debris and causing blockages.
2. Use a Drain Strainer

You can also prevent debris such as hair, food particles and soap scum from entering the drainage system by using a drain strainer. This simple device is placed over the drain opening to catch solid materials, allowing only water to pass through. However, you must clean out the collected debris from the drain guards on a regular basis to maintain their effectiveness.
3. Dispose of Food Waste

Furthermore, to prevent blockages, be mindful of what goes down the drain. You should avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, especially because items like sanitary products, wipes and paper towels can cause significant blockages. You must also dispose of food scraps and coffee grounds rather than pour them down the kitchen sink because these can accumulate in the pipes and lead to blockages.
4. Regularly Maintain the Drains

In addition, you should implement a maintenance schedule for your drains. You could flush them with boiling water periodically to help remove any accumulated debris and keep the pipes clear. You could also consider using a natural drain cleaner, such as baking soda and vinegar which causes a chemical reaction, on a monthly basis to prevent the build-up of grease and other substances. For persistent or severe blockages, it is essential to seek professional assistance. Australian plumbers will have specialized tools and equipment to effectively remove stubborn blockages and restore the optimal flow of water in your pipes.
5. Educate your Household
Finally, you should educate everyone in your household about proper drain usage and maintenance. You can encourage them to follow these tips, emphasizing the importance of responsible drain use and avoiding behaviours that can potentially cause blockages.
Therefore, to summarise, preventing blocked drains in your home is achievable with some simple but effective measures. You should avoid the disposal of grease and oil down the drain, use drain guards or strainers, ensure proper waste disposal and carry out regular drain maintenance. By using these measures, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of blocked drains.