Kolter Homeowner Guide

Drains Water leaves your home via drains. Maintaining them properly is key to preventing clogging, overflowing, water damage, and other issues.

Keeping drains clear The following procedure, if done on a regular basis, will help keep your drains running properly:

1. Turn on the faucet and allow hot water to run through the drain.

Care and maintenance Follow these tips for maintaining your home’s drains.

2. Pour three tablespoons of washing soda (not baking soda) into the drain.

3. Add just enough hot water to wash the soda down the drain.

Drain traps Most of your home’s plumbing fixtures (the sink, shower, and toilet, for example) have a drain trap which is a piece of pipe beneath the fixture that’s shaped like the letter J. The purpose is to hold water that creates a barrier so sewer gases don’t enter your home. HOME TIP: Given their shape, drain traps are the most frequent area where clogs occur. Checking appliances for leaks If any appliances that use water appear to be leaking, check the drain for clogs. A clogged drain can cause water to overflow and you may be able to remove the clog yourself and save money by not having to call for a repair. CAUTION: If you use a commercial drain cleaner to remove a clog, make sure to avoid caustic soda. It will mix with the grease in the drain and create an insoluble compound.

4. Wait 15 minutes for the soda to set and then run hot water.

CAUTION: Do not put grease into a drain or toilet. Septic System Septic systems include a tank and use the soil in your yard to treat the wastewater from your home. Have a professional pump your septic system every three to five years. Clearing drains Stick a piece of cloth into any overflow outlet. This allows the plunger to develop the necessary pressure and suction around the drain. Follow these steps to clear the drain:

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