When a homeowner in Tunbridge Wells encounters a blocked drain, it can prove to be an incredibly inconvenient and potentially costly issue to resolve. Understanding the common causes and fixes can help homeowners avoid severe drain blockages that necessitate professional intervention.
There are various causes of blocked drains, and many of them are due to daily activities and habits. Here, we unravel the standard culprits and their solutions.
One of the most common causes of drain blockages is the build-up of food waste in the kitchen sinks. As a rule, never pour congealed fats, oils, or grease down the drain, as they solidify and clog up the pipes. Instead, wipe off pans and dishes with a paper towel before washing them. Coffee grounds and tea leaves can also block the drains; consider composting them or disposing of them with regular solid waste.
In the bathroom, the leading cause of blockages is the build-up of hair, soap and personal-care products. Regularly clean out the drains to prevent this build-up. A simple hair-catcher over your shower drain can be a game-changer. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. Items like diapers, cotton-tipped swabs, small toys, or other sanitary products can cause significant blockages.
Another major culprit is the intrusion of tree roots. Aging pipes that have small cracks or leaks draw in tree roots searching for water sources, leading to considerable blocked drains tunbridgewells damage and blockage. Regular inspection for tree root intrusions can help prevent such problems from escalating.
If you are dealing with a blocked drain in Tunbridge Wells, you can attempt some fixes yourself before calling in a professional. Plungers can be quite useful for minor blockages. Plunge the drain while ensuring a good seal around the drain opening. A plumber’s snake or a hand auger can also be used to reach deep into the drain and dislodge the blockage.
High-pressure water jets can help remove blockages caused by grease or food waste. However, one must be cautious while using such devices as their misuse can cause injury or further damage to the pipes.
Baking soda and vinegar can be used for eco-friendly and mild blockage removal. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Wait for 20 minutes and then rinse with hot water.
However, it is essential to note that stubborn blockages, or those potentially caused by tree roots or damaged pipework, should be attended to by a professional. It’s vital to avoid using chemicals or excessive force, which can damage the pipes and present safety issues.
A professional drain company in Tunbridge Wells will have the expertise, experience and equipment needed to handle major blockages than a household plunger cannot handle. They can conduct inspections, identify the exact source of the blockage, and suggest effective solutions to ensure that the problem does not recur.
Preventive action is the optimum strategy when it comes to drain health. Following good practices in discarding waste and regular inspections can save homeowners in Tunbridge Wells significant inconvenience and expense in the future. However, in cases of major blockages, it’s wise to rely on the local professionals to protect your pipes and save you from more troubles down the line.