Having your drains blocked can be a real source of frustration. We’ve all been there – spending hours trying to find the source of the blockage only for it to come back and happen again a few days later. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to avoid this problem in the future. Read on for some essential advice on how to deal with blocked drains click here .
What Causes Blocked Drains?
The most common cause of blocked drains is built up debris such as dirt and sand which accumulates over time. Other things to look out for include tree roots blocking the pipes and foreign objects wedging themselves in the pipe. These can range from things like sanitary towels or baby wipes which don’t disintegrate quickly enough, to toys children have dropped down the toilet.
How Can I Prevent This From Happening?
The best way to prevent blocked drains is by making sure that only the correct items are disposed of in the toilet. Toilet paper and bodily waste should always be the only things going down the drain. Additionally, chemicals should not be poured down the drain as these can corrode the pipes if used too frequently.
It may also be wise to get your drains checked regularly by a professional. This can be especially important for older homes where roots may be growing close to the drains. A professional plumber will be able to spot any issues and make suggestions for improvements before they become problematic.
What Should I Do If My Drain Is Blocked?
If your drain is already blocked then there are several solutions you can try. A plunger is always a good option for minor blockages. Put the plunger over the blocked area and use a pumping motion to push the blockage away.
Alternatively, you could use a “drain snake”, which is a long wire-like tool threaded down the drain. Move it around until it finds the obstruction and break it up. You can then flush with hot water to clear the pipes.
When Should I Call A Plumber?
If none of these solutions work then it might be time to call a plumber. They will have specialised equipment for unblocking drains, including high pressure water jets and even cameras. Be aware that these services usually aren’t covered by insurance unless you have specifically taken out cover for this kind of issue.
You can also ask the plumber for advice on what measures to take to prevent the blocks from happening again. They may recommend installing a filter system near where the drains start to help catch debris before it goes into the pipes.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can be a real hassle, but if you understand why they’re occurring and take the necessary steps to avoid them, then it needn’t be a major problem. Even if you do occasionally get a blockage it’s usually something you can handle yourself, but if everything else fails then don’t hesitate to call a professional in.
