Drain clogs are an annoyance at the best of times. For commercial properties, clogged drains can be a potential disaster, as standing water pools on floors or contributes to unsanitary conditions.

Whether the commercial property in question is a family residence, office, restaurant, or industrial park, drain clogs are a problem that need to be dealt with.

However, as the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention can be worth a pound of cure.” Keeping drains from clogging in the first place is often cheaper and easier than dealing with a clog later on.

So, how can you avoid drain clogs in commercial properties in Sacramento? Here are a few tips that you can follow:

Install Drain Traps/Mesh Screens

Mesh screens and other drain trap devices can do a lot to prevent debris from getting into your property's pipelines. These traps can be easily removed, cleaned out, and replaced to help ensure that drains are kept free of whatever debris is typical of the use of that drain in that commercial property.

Regularly Maintain Drainage Pipes

Routine maintenance is a must for commercial properties. On a weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly basis, specific preventative maintenance must be done to keep drains clear and working properly.

Two basic measures include:

1. Cleaning. At least once a week, or after every few uses, a drain on a commercial property should be checked for and cleaned of buildup. The frequency of these cleanings will vary based on the use of the commercial property.
2. Thorough Pipe Inspections. On a monthly basis, piping underneath drains should be carefully checked for excess buildup. In particular, u-bends/traps should be taken apart and checked/cleaned. At least once a year, a thorough check of piping should be conducted, especially if pipes are nearing their maximum use age.

Depending on the use of the commercial property, it may be necessary to use antimicrobial treatments on drains. However, before doing so, it’s important to consult an experienced plumber; some antimicrobial agents may damage plumbing and interfere with septic systems (if present).

Establish Proper Use Guidelines for All Drainage Systems in the Property

The biggest cause of drain clogs is the improper use of the drain by a building’s occupants. Whether they’re workers or residents, everyone using a commercial property should be made aware of the basic use guidelines for sinks, toilets, and other systems meant to carry water or waste.

In particular, it’s important to establish a list of items that should never be put down a drain, including (but not limited to):

• Grease & oils
• Water-absorbent materials (rice, bread, etc.)
• Solid waste (plastic, metal, etc.)
• Caustic materials that can corrode piping (causes leaks rather than clogs, but still bad news)
• Adhesives (glue, paint, and other materials that can coagulate/congeal in the pipe)

By establishing some ground rules for the use of drains in your commercial property, you can prevent the worst accidental damage, or at least limit your liability if the rules are not followed.

While you won’t stop drainage clogs entirely, by following the above tips, you can reduce how frequently clogs occur. For more help and advice about taking care of your commercial property plumbing, contact Express Sewer & Drain today!