Blocked drains can cause untold stress and frustration, not to mention costly repairs if not remedied promptly. If you’re in Sevenoaks or surrounding areas, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through some preventative measures and repair tips for blocked drains to help you save time, money and maintain a well-functioning drainage system.
Prevention is Key: Steps to avoid blocked drains
The most effective way to handle blocked drains is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some preventative measures you can follow:
1. Watch what goes down your drain: Just because a substance can go down a drain does not mean it should. Grease and fat are common culprits behind clogged pipes, as they harden and cause a blockage. Coffee grounds, tea leaves, hair, kitchen roll, and wipes (including those labelled as ‘flushable’) can also lead to blocked drains. Always discard these substances responsibly.
2. Regularly rinse your drains: A simple way to prevent build-up in your pipes is to regularly rinse them with hot water. This will help to reduce the build-up of fats, soaps and any remaining food waste.
3. Install drain screens: Drain screens are effective, budget-friendly tools that can prevent substantial debris from entering your pipes, reducing the risk of blockages.
4. Keep trees and plants in check: In your garden, plant roots can cause havoc to your drains. Keep trees and large plants away from drain lines to prevent roots from infiltrating and blocking your drains.
Repair Tips: Handling blocked drains
Despite our best efforts, blocked drains can still occur. Don’t worry, though; we have some troubleshooting tips you can try before calling in the professionals:
1. Traditional Plunger: A good old-fashioned plunger can often do the trick. Be sure to cover any overflow spouts before you begin plunging so you can get a strong seal. The up-and-down blocked drains sevenoaks pressure created by the plunger can help to loosen any blockages.
2. Drain Snake: Also known as a plumber’s snake, this tool can reach blockages that are further down the pipe that a plunger can’t reach. A drain snake uses a coiled metal wire to reach through your drain network and dislodge blockages.
3. Drain Cleaning Chemicals: These should be used cautiously as a last resort as they can corrode pipes if used frequently. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
When to call a professional:
If you’ve tried the tips listed and the problem persists, or if the blockage seems severe, it’s time to call in the professionals. A professional plumber has the skills and equipment necessary to thoroughly clear blocked drains and provide a lasting solution. They can also offer expert advice to avoid recurring blockages in the future.
In Sevenoaks, professional drainage services are available to handle obstruction, regardless of size or location. They are skilled in locating the blockage and use advanced techniques like CCTV drain surveys to gain a clear understanding of the problem, resulting in a tailored solution.
Although dealing with blocked drains can be bothersome, understanding the causes, learning how to prevent issues, and effectively handling minor blockages will go a long way in maintaining a well-functioning drainage system. Regular drain maintenance is the ultimate key to keeping your drains running smoothly. Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional to handle your blocked drain situation in Sevenoaks.