How to Prevent Clogged Drains During Idaho’s Winter Months

As temperatures drop in Nampa, Idaho, and winter settles in, it’s not just the roads and
sidewalks that can face freezing issues—your drains and pipes are also vulnerable. The
combination of colder weather, increased indoor activity, and holiday gatherings can put extra
pressure on your plumbing, making winter a prime season for clogs. At A+ Drain Cleaning and
Plumbing, we understand the importance of keeping your drains free-flowing through every
season. Here are essential tips to prevent clogs this winter and keep your plumbing functioning
smoothly.

1. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
With the winter holidays often comes increased cooking and baking, leading to food scraps,
fats, and oils finding their way into kitchen sinks. While it may be tempting to pour grease down
the drain after cooking, this is one of the main culprits of winter clogs. As grease cools, it
hardens and can create significant blockages within your pipes.
Tip: Instead of pouring grease or oil down the drain, allow it to cool and dispose of it in a sealed
container in the trash. Similarly, avoid letting food scraps, coffee grounds, and other
non-dissolvable materials go down the sink, even if you have a garbage disposal. These can
accumulate in pipes, causing blockages that are difficult to clear.

2. Keep Your Drains Warm
Cold weather can cause pipes to contract, making it easier for clogs to form and for pipes to
freeze. Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes and severe water damage, which is a costly and
disruptive problem for any homeowner.
Tip: Keep the areas around your plumbing warm by insulating pipes in unheated parts of your
home, such as basements, attics, and garages. Additionally, during particularly cold nights,
allow a slow trickle of water to run from faucets connected to exposed pipes. This small
measure can help prevent water from freezing inside the pipes.

3. Avoid Overusing Your Garbage Disposal
The garbage disposal is a helpful kitchen tool, but overusing it, especially during the winter, can
lead to clogs. Items like potato peels, onion skins, and fibrous vegetables are difficult for
disposals to break down and can cause blockages.

Tip: When using your garbage disposal, always run cold water for a few seconds before and
after use to ensure that food particles are fully flushed down. Even better, consider composting
vegetable scraps rather than putting them in the disposal. Composting is an eco-friendly way to
reduce kitchen waste and protect your pipes.

4. Take Care of Your Bathroom Drains
Increased time indoors during the winter means bathroom drains are also working overtime.
Hair, soap, and other personal care products can cause clogs, especially in shower and sink
drains.

Tip: Use drain guards in your bathroom drains to catch hair and other particles before they enter
your plumbing. These inexpensive devices are highly effective in preventing clogs. Additionally,
cleaning your drain covers regularly will minimize buildup and help keep water flowing freely.

5. Watch for Signs of Slow Drains
Slow drains are often the first sign of a potential clog. If you notice water draining slowly from
sinks, showers, or tubs, this could indicate a blockage forming within the pipes.
Tip: Regularly inspect and clean your drains to prevent major issues. For a quick DIY solution,
you can pour a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar down the drain to help clear
minor blockages. However, for persistent slow drains, it’s best to call a professional like A+
Drain Cleaning and Plumbing. We can perform a thorough inspection to ensure your pipes are
free of obstructions.

6. Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning
One of the best ways to prevent clogs during Idaho’s winter is to schedule a professional drain
cleaning before the cold season hits. Over time, drains can accumulate debris, even with
regular care, making professional cleaning an essential step in maintaining a healthy plumbing
system.

Tip: At A+ Drain Cleaning and Plumbing, we offer comprehensive drain cleaning services to
remove buildup and debris from your pipes. Our advanced equipment allows us to clear
blockages safely and effectively, preparing your plumbing for the demands of winter.

7. Know When to Call for Emergency Help
Winter clogs don’t always happen at convenient times. Frozen pipes and backed-up drains can
escalate quickly, especially if temperatures drop overnight. Knowing when to call for emergency
assistance can prevent a minor issue from turning into a plumbing disaster.
Tip: If you encounter a serious clog, a frozen pipe, or a sewer backup, don’t wait to call for
professional help. A+ Drain Cleaning and Plumbing offers emergency services to tackle urgent
plumbing issues, ensuring you’re covered even in unexpected situations.

Keep Your Drains Flowing This Winter with A+ Drain Cleaning and Plumbing
Taking preventative steps to avoid clogs is crucial during Idaho’s winter months. By following
these simple yet effective tips, you can keep your drains and pipes functioning smoothly through
the season. However, if you encounter issues or want to ensure your plumbing is fully prepared
for the winter, A+ Drain Cleaning and Plumbing is here to help. Our team of experts is dedicated
to keeping your home’s plumbing in top shape year-round, providing reliable drain cleaning and
emergency plumbing services for homeowners in Nampa and the surrounding areas.
Contact us today to schedule a drain cleaning service or learn more about our winter
plumbing maintenance tips!