Anyone who has ever had an issue with a blocked drain knows that feeling of dread you get when confronted with such a predicament. Not only is it potentially hazardous to your health if not dealt with correctly, but it can also be incredibly expensive. Don’t despair though, blocked drains don’t always have to mean costly repairs. click here for some simple steps you can take to help solve the problem yourself and avoid expensive repair costs.
What Causes Blocked Drains?
Blocked drains are most commonly caused by debris and objects getting stuck in pipes. This could be anything from food waste to oil, hair, dirt and toiletries. Blockages can occur anywhere in the drainage system, from the sink or bath to even the sewers. Other potential causes include tree roots growing through pipes, older pipes beginning to fail due to age and broken pipe work.
The Signs of Blocked Drains
When a blocked drain is present, there are some tell-tale signs that will alert you to the fact that all is not well. These signs include slow draining water, gurgling sounds when flushing a toilet, bad smells, flooding in the bathroom or kitchen and toilets not flushing properly. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your plumbing, it’s best to act fast and deal with the situation as quickly as possible to avoid further damages.
How to Tackle Blocked Drains
When it comes to solo unblocking attempts, the most common approach is to use a plunger. A plunger can be used to remove small blockages, but larger ones may require more tools. You can purchase drain cleaning rods or snakes from hardware stores which can be used to push through more stubborn blockages. However, do bear in mind that this kind of DIY approach may not be suitable in all cases, and a plumber should be called in to tackle deep seated blockages.
Preventative Measures
If you want to stay clog free then prevention is key. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet tissue, keep an eye on what goes into the hand basin or bathtub, and make sure any waste food is disposed of properly. Oil can also be a major culprit, so try to pour leftover cooking oil into a separate container, rather than letting it down the sink. One final tip is to make sure your drains are regularly serviced.
Professional Help
In some instances, the severity of the blockage will require professional assistance. Plumbers are equipped with the tools and experience necessary to tackle a wide variety of blocked drains. Smaller blockages can usually be sorted within an hour or two. In some rare cases, blocked drains can lead to more serious problems such as cracks in walls or foundations, so it’s better to get it sorted as soon as possible.
Stay Safe with Blocked Drains
Blocked drains can present a range of issues, from nasty odours to health risks. Depending on the magnitude of the blockage, it may be worth considering calling out a professional plumber to get things sorted. Use the tips above to give yourself a head start and take steps today to prevent future blockages from occurring.