If you're new to home ownership, you probably have many things to learn about taking care of a home. Maintaining the drains is one of the ways that you can prevent plumbing problems and avoid costly repairs.

If you're new to home ownership, you probably have many things to learn about taking care of a home. Maintaining the drains is one of the ways that you can prevent plumbing problems and avoid costly repairs. Knowing how to maintain your home's drains is important for ensuring that your home's plumbing is in good condition.

Drain strainers are filters that prevent hair, food, and other items from going down the drain. Use a drain strainer in all sinks and bathtubs. Clean all drain strainers when completing the rest of your household cleaning. Keeping strainers clean can help keep them functional.

Products like vinegar and baking soda can help keep your drains clear and flowing smoothly. To clean drains at home, pour equal parts baking soda and vinegar into the drain. When the froth settles, leave the mixture in the drains for about three hours, then with warm water. Doing this regularly will help clear debris from the drains and will help keep your drains free of clogs.

The P-trap is the curved part of the drain where water sits. This water creates a seal between the sewer and house, thus preventing sewer gas from entering the home. In unused bathrooms and drains of the house, this water can evaporate over time. If the water in the P-trap evaporates entirely, sewer gas can enter the room. To prevent this from happening, flush unused drains with water once a month (or more if needed).

A plumber's auger is basically a hand-powered drain snake. These handy tools can clear clogs in sinks and other drains. To use a drain snake to clear a clog, push the cable into the drain until it will go no farther.

Flushing the wrong waste into your drains can cause a sewer backup. To protect your home and prevent a sewer clog, never flush food, disposable wipes, grease, diapers, kitty litter or tampons into your drain. Even if a product says that it can be flushed down the drains, it may not be safe for your plumbing or sewer.

Knowing the signs of a sewer backup can help you get sewer cleaning services when they're needed.

Keeping the number for a plumber on hand makes it easy to call for help when you need it. Post the number for a reputable plumber on your home's fridge and in your cell phone.