If you have ever experienced slow or stopped up plumbing, you know that it can be a major pain to deal with. If one area of plumbing is blocked, it often affects the whole house. You might even find that you need sewer replacement Los Angeles CA services. Thankfully, following a few simple steps can protect your plumbing and sewer lines and keep them flowing beautifully for years to come.

Throw Away Grease

Are you someone who thinks that following dumped grease with a little bit of hot water and some dishwashing liquid after it is ok? Unfortunately, you’re mistaken. Fat disposed of in one sink will coat every single pipe that it travels through to the main drain line. Over time, the grease and other debris build up and eventually blocks the drain. Instead of putting it down the sink, pour off what you can into an old can and wipe the rest away with a paper towel that you can throw away.

Be Mindful What You Flush

It is important to remember that you should only ever flush human waste and toilet paper. Some brands sell “flushable” wipes, but they are harmful to your plumbing and sewer system. They don’t break down quickly and can easily get caught up on blockages in the pipes, making things worse. Additionally, never flush your leftovers, paper towels, or kitty litter.

Watch Out for Roots

Trees are a beautiful addition to any yard, but they can wreak havoc on your sewer system. Their roots can grow through the pipes and can clog or destroy them. Smaller trees need about 10 feet of space for their root systems, while larger trees need about 100 feet. If you bought a house with existing trees, it would be a good idea to find out how far they are from the sewer line and deal with them appropriately.