Clogs

• Clogs form when hair and other debris collects in the pipes. If you don't have a clog, think in terms of prevention and use a drain cleaning chemical that is environmentally safe once or twice a month to keep clogs from forming. You can purchase products for this, or you can put some vinegar and just a little bit of baking soda in the drain; the bubbling of the chemical reaction from these two substances can loosen sediment and debris. Using drain catches over drain openings also will help because they limit what goes into the pipe.
  
  If you already have a clog, you can use a heavier dose of a cleaner to dissolve it, or you can try to budge the clog using a plunger--both of these methods cost only a few dollars. If the clog is really nasty, then you'll need a plumber's snake or similar tool to reach into the pipe and pull the material out.
  
  

Odors

• If your drains smell really bad, first check to see if the drain valves are operating properly. Sometimes if a valve is sticking in the open position, odors can back up into the drain and waft through your home. You may be able to clean a stuck valve mechanism with a wire brush or environmentally safe degreaser, and a few soft taps with a hammer can dislodge it. If your drains still stink, try getting a water softener and filtration system installed. Sediment in the water can build up in the pipes and cause bad smells, but softeners and filters can limit the amount of sediment that runs through the pipe and prevent this problem.
  
  

Noise

• Noisy pipes most often are caused by sediment in the pipe, improper valve operation, and lack of cushioning or insulation around piping or fixtures. If the pipes are whistling, check to see that valves aren't staying partially open and then install a water softener. Te water softener definitely should be installed if the noise is accompanied by dirty or hard water or if the water tastes or smells bad. If pipes rattle, install more insulation around the pipes. If they creak, you need more insulation or more space around the pipes for expansion and contraction. Banging or hammering usually requires valves to be adjusted and typically indicates the valves are closing far too quickly.