What you will know after this guide
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Laundry
- Early signs
Kitchen
Do not pour grease, oil, grounds, flour, dough, rice or fibrous food down the drain. Scrape plates, use a strainer and dispose of solids. Run enough water during and after a disposer where allowed, without assuming it makes matter soluble.
Bathroom
Install a hair screen, remove visible buildup and limit oily products. Flush only human waste and toilet paper; so-called flushable wipes, floss, tampons, litter and paper towels go in the trash.
Laundry
Clean the washer filter if present, empty pockets and control lint, sand and pet hair. A compatible lint trap may help on some installations, but must not restrict flow or conflict with the manufacturer or plumbing.
Early signs
Gurgling, odour, varying water level, several slow fixtures or backup at a low point indicate a problem beyond the trap. Stop use before overflow and distinguish a local branch, building drain, vent or municipal sewer issue.
Safe maintenance
Clean strainers and accessible traps, flush under normal use and obtain an inspection for recurring blockages. Avoid chemical mixtures, repeated caustic products and boiling water on sensitive materials; they can injure, damage and complicate service.
