We’ve all been there – a blocked drain can turn your day upside down, and the sight (or smell) of a clogged sink is never pleasant. But, know that you don’t have to let it get to this stage. There are simple things you can do. Let’s learn about how you can keep the water flowing smoothly in your pipes.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
You’d be amazed at what can cause your drains to become clogged. Let’s break down the usual suspects:
Food Debris 6 Grease Build-up: Those delicious cooking remnants we wash down the sink? They’re culprits number one. They stick to the inside of the pipes and clogs grow over time as more debris gets stuck.
Hair and Soap Scum: Our locks and favourite shampoos might make us look good, but they’re not doing your drains any favours. Again, they can get stuck down the pipes and grow into a huge blockage.
Foreign Objects: Kids’ toys, jewellery, and even the odd toothbrush can find their way into your plumbing. This is bad and will most likely result in a blockage.
Tree Roots Intrusion: Mother Nature sometimes decides your pipes are a great place for trees to grow. This is often due to the moisture and the roots find themselves in these spots.
Corrosion and Pipe Damage: Over time, pipes can corrode and suffer damage, causing blockages.
When to Call in the Pros
Most of the time, blockages should be dealt with by the professionals. There are some minor clogs you can solve by yourself, and we’ll talk about DIY methods later. But, here are some signs you need the experts and this is when you should use drain unblocking in South West London. Professionals have the right equipment to clear the blockage and to protect your pipes and drainage system at the same time. Here are some signs you should not ignore or try to tackle by yourself.
- Repeated blockages.
- Foul sewage smells.
- Flooding or serious water damage.
- Ageing plumbing that might need replacing.
Choosing the Right Drain Unblocking Service
When you’re choosing a drain unblocking service to use in South West London, you should always ensure you do the following things:
Check for Certification: Ensure they’re licenced and certified to work in your area.
Read Reviews: Hit the internet and see what others are saying about their service.
Ask for Quotes: Get estimates from a few different companies before making your decision.
Emergency Services: Find out if they offer 24/7 emergency services because blockages don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule.
Signs of a Blocked Drain
Now that we know what causes these nuisances and what you should do about it, you need to know how to spot if you have a problem. Thankfully, you’re going to know when you’ve got a blocked drain, which allows you to take action before it gets worse. So, here’s what you need to look for to prevent escalation.
Slow Drainage: Your sink or tub is taking an eternity to empty? That’s your first clue. It means that something is in the pipes and stopping the water from draining properly. Don’t stand around and wait. Pick up the phone and call the experts to clear the blockage.
Unpleasant Odours: If you detect foul smells coming from your drains, it’s time to investigate. This is not caused for no reason. Indeed, it’s like that debris is down there that is rotting and causing the odour.
Gurgling Noises: Hearing strange noises from your plumbing? It’s trying to tell you something. This is not normal and it indicates that something is lurking in the pipes that shouldn’t be. So, if you hear any new noises, take action.
Water Backing Up: When water starts doing the opposite of what you want, it’s a sign of trouble. Of course, this shows that something is stopping the water from draining the right way.
Wet Patches or Water Stains: Discolouration or wet spots on your walls or floors can indicate a hidden blockage. This is something you want to deal with immediately, as it can mean the risk of mould and mildew.
DIY Drain Cleaning Tips
Before you reach for the phone to call in the professionals, try these DIY solutions to unclog minor blockages. But, only attempt them if you’re confident about what you’re doing.
Plunging: Invest in a good quality plunger. It’s like a magic wand for blocked drains. It can help to get rid of a minor clog, and it may be easier to solve than you think.
Using a Drain Snake: A handy tool to have around. It can reach those deep, pesky clogs, clearing it so water can drain properly. Generally, they’re quite cheap to buy, and they can save you money with small issues.
Homemade Drain Cleaners: Baking soda and vinegar work wonders when used together. Pour hot water after to ensure that your drains are clean. While this won’t work on a blockage, it can help with getting rid of odours and any mould that exists.
Conclusion
Blocked drains are inevitable in homeownership, but they don’t have to be a nightmare. Armed with this guide, you’re ready to tackle minor clogs independently and know when to call in the professionals. Remember, keeping your drains clean means a happier home and smoother plumbing.
