Plumbing clogs are common scenarios in residential and commercial properties. While the list of potential culprits is extensive, greasy foods are among the top contributors. When cooking or rinsing dirty dishes, grease can flow down the kitchen sink drain, accumulating in the pipes and obstructing wastewater flow. The last thing any property owner wants is foul odors, slow drains, and backups disrupting daily activities and causing hazards. At Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air of San Diego, we believe the best way to prevent such scenarios when cooking greasy foods is to be cautious about what goes down your drains. However, here are easy and inexpensive ways to prevent buildup. 

Use a Mesh Drain Strainer 

The cheapest clog-prevention method is to install a mesh drain cleaner. Also known as a basket, this device traps non-liquids, preventing them from flowing down your pipes. Once you finish preparing food and washing the dishes, remove the mesh and dispose of the waste in a bin. Mesh drain strainers are easily accessible in local stores, making them ideal for protecting your kitchen sink drains against clogs. 

Eliminate Grease

Once you prevent solid particles and other non-liquid substances from flowing down the drain, the next step is to eliminate grease completely. This involves pouring cooking oils and other types of grease into a container or glass jar. Most homeowners pour grease down kitchen drains, leading to solidification inside the pipes, buildup, and blockage over time. If you notice slow drains or backups, call a trusted plumber in National City to inspect, detect, and address the clog before it worsens. 

Wipe Pans Before Washing 

Even after pouring grease into cans or glass jars, a thin residue usually remains on pots, pans, and plates. If you wash them without wiping the remaining grease can end up in your drains. Before placing greasy utensils in the sink or dishwasher, use a paper towel or rag to wipe them clean. This is a crucial step in removing the remaining fat and preventing clogs down the line. In addition, it makes the dishwasher more effective since there is less grime to clean. 

Run Hot Water and Dish Soap After Cooking

After implementing the preventive measures mentioned earlier, run hot water down the drain with a squirt of dish soap. Hot water loosens fat that may have entered the pipes while dish soap breaks down grease. This is an effective solution for dealing with small amounts of grease, but larger amounts may require more effective solutions. A trusted plumber in National City can pressure clean the drain and sewer lines, removing any buildup without harming your system. 

Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners Regularly

While it might be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners to clear grease clogs, this quick fix can cause long-term problems. Store-bought products contain harsh chemicals that can corrode your pipes and even damage septic systems. If you are dealing with a recurring grease issue, it is better to call a plumber in National City or use an enzyme-based drain cleaner, which is gentler on pipes and better for the environment. However, prevention remains your best bet for maintaining efficient and clog-free drains for years.

Schedule Regular Hydro Jetting

Lastly, investing in professional cleaning services can give you peace of mind knowing your pipes are clog-free year-round. A reputable plumbing service uses advanced hydro jetting equipment to blast pressurized water into the affected drains, clearing accumulated grease. If your pipes are old or damaged, the technician will recommend a safer and less invasive alternative. 

Cooking greasy foods does not have to mean constant plumbing issues. By adopting a few simple habits, you can enjoy your meals without worrying about your plumbing. It is not just about convenience; preventing clogs also protects your home’s plumbing system and saves you money on costly repairs. Contact us at Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air of San Diego to access quality drain cleaning and maintenance services.