Why Garage Drains Matter
In Alaska, garage drains are more than just a convenience; they are essential. Between melting snow, slush, oil, and grime, your garage floor sees a lot of runoff. A properly working drain keeps water from pooling, reduces ice buildup, and helps protect your home’s foundation from moisture damage.
Without regular maintenance, that drain can quickly become a problem. Clogs from dirt, sand, oil, or debris can lead to standing water, bad smells, or even flooding.
5 Common Questions About Garage Drain Maintenance
1. How often should a garage drain be cleaned?
It depends on usage. For most homeowners, cleaning once or twice a year is enough. If you wash vehicles inside the garage, deal with a lot of snow melt, or notice slow draining, it may need more frequent attention, especially before and after winter.
2. What causes garage drains to clog?
Typical culprits include:
- Dirt, sand, and salt from vehicles
- Leaves or debris swept into the drain
- Oil, grease, and automotive fluids
- Small objects or trash accidentally washed in
Over time, these materials settle and solidify inside the drain line, reducing flow.
3. Can I clean a garage drain myself?
Yes. Start by removing the grate and scooping out visible debris. You can then flush the line with hot water and a mild detergent. However, if the drain still backs up, that usually indicates a deeper clog that requires professional equipment such as hydro-jetting or snaking.
4. Why does my garage drain smell bad?
Foul odors often mean trapped organic material, oil buildup, or a dry trap if your drain has one. Pouring a few gallons of water down the drain every month helps maintain the trap seal and prevents sewer gas from entering your garage.
5. When should I call a professional?
If you notice:
- Water is backing up or draining slowly
- Persistent foul odors
- Gurgling noises from the drain
- Water is pooling around the drain cover
It is best to have a professional inspect it. Alaska Sewer & Drain’s technicians can locate and clear blockages safely without damaging your drain line.
4 Tips to Keep Your Garage Drain Flowing Smoothly
- Sweep regularly to prevent dirt and grit from collecting near the drain.
- Avoid rinsing oil or chemicals into the drain. Dispose of them properly.
- Flush with hot water periodically to loosen buildup.
- Schedule preventive maintenance once or twice a year to avoid costly backups.
Professional Drain Cleaning in Anchorage
At Alaska Sewer & Drain, we specialize in garage drain cleaning and maintenance for homes and businesses across Anchorage and the surrounding areas. Whether you are dealing with a slow drain, unpleasant odor, or a full backup, our experienced team provides true 24/7 service to get things flowing again fast.
Keep your garage clean, dry, and problem-free. Contact Alaska Sewer & Drain today for professional garage drain service.