Keeping pipes cleared

[Tawny Bloom]

Last month we had to call in Roto Rooters as our tenants pipes were backed up.  The drain for the washing machine and kitchen all drain to the same pipe and according to the Roto Rooter guy this can sometimes cause problems (lint water mixing with oily water).  Does anyone have any recommendations for products that can be periodically poured down the drain to help keep the pipes cleared and avoid future plumbing issues?  We are ideally looking for something environmentally friendly.  

[Darwin Crawford]

@Tawny Bloom - the pipe clogging issue is a result of soap and oil chemically mixing and sticking to your pipes.  

Most products like the one above kind of help, but don't really solve the problem.  On my properties, I have them professionally jetted out every 3-5 years.  Its basically a little pressure washer that strips all the goo off the pipe walls and washes it down.  

It costs, here in AZ, about $380 to have it done, and eliminates all drain issues (except for abuse), and plumbing calls.  It will also add lifespan to your piping, especially cast iron.  Once you weigh that cost against a few plumber visits, its a no-brainer, and even better, you can PLAN WHEN you spend it.  

Shop it around in your local area, and be aware that some companies only jet the main lines, while others will come jet the secondary drains, which, in your case, are the problem.