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Having a blocked drain at home is something that we’ve likely all had to deal with at least once or twice – and we know how unpleasant it can be. Not only do blocked drains cause slow water drainage, but they can also lead to flooding, sewage backups, and expensive repairs.
Whether it’s from a build-up of grease down the kitchen sink, or hair in the shower, there are loads of reasons for indoor drains to get blocked.
In this article, we’ll cover how to keep your indoor drains clean and clear by covering 1) how to prevent drains from getting blocked in the first place and 2) how to fix blocked drains.
Keep reading for the best advice from Greenstar, your local drainage specialists.
By taking a few preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the chances of your drains getting blocked. Follow these tips to maintain healthy drains:
Regularly pouring boiling water down your drains can help prevent the buildup of grease, soap scum, and other debris. The hot water helps dissolve and flush away potential blockages, keeping your drains clear and free flowing.
Another effective method to maintain clean drains is by periodically using a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. Start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and work its way through the pipes for about 15 minutes, and then flush with hot water. This natural cleaning solution helps break down organic materials before the buildup causes a blockage and helps eliminate unpleasant odours.
Instead of pouring fats and oils down the drain, which can solidify and cause blockages, collect them in a heat-resistant container. Once the fats have cooled and solidified, dispose of them in the trash. This simple practice can prevent clogs and keep your drains flowing smoothly.
Hair is a common culprit when it comes to drain blockages in bathrooms. To minimize hair buildup in your drains, make it a habit to brush your hair thoroughly before taking a bath or shower. This helps remove loose strands that would otherwise find their way into the drain.
Before washing dishes or utensils, scrape off any leftover food into the trash or compost bin. Food particles can easily accumulate in drains, leading to blockages over time. By ensuring that plates are free from food scraps, you reduce the risk of clogs and maintain efficient drainage.
Installing basket strainer plugs in sinks and baths whenever possible is a practical step to prevent debris from entering your drains. These strainer plugs act as filters, catching hair, food particles, and other solids that could otherwise cause blockages. Regularly clean the strainer plugs to maintain their effectiveness.
When faced with a clogged drain, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. Follow these methods to fix blocked drains effectively:
Soda crystals, also known as washing soda or sodium carbonate, can be an effective solution for keeping your drains clear. Pour a cup of soda crystals down the blocked drain, followed by a kettle of boiling water. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to break down the blockage, and then flush with hot water. This method can help dissolve grease, soap scum, and other deposits that may be causing the blockage.
For stubborn blockages, an intensive treatment using vinegar and bicarbonate of soda can be highly effective. Start by pouring boiling water down the drain to help loosen the clog. Next, pour half a cup of bicarbonate of soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and let the mixture foam and work its way through the pipes for about 10 minutes. Finally, flush the drain with boiling water. Repeat this process as necessary to dissolve the blockage – this even works on blockages cause by hair.
If the blockage is likely caused by hair in a shower or bath drain, you can attempt to remove it manually. Use tweezers or needle-nose pliers to reach into the drain and extract any visible hair. Take caution not to push the hair further into the drain. This method can be effective for clogs nearer the plughole.
A drain snake is a flexible tool designed to reach deep into the pipes and remove blockages. Insert the drain snake into the drain opening and twist or crank the handle to break up and retrieve the clog. Drain snakes are available in different lengths and sizes, so choose one that suits your needs. This tool can be particularly useful for more stubborn blockages that cannot be easily cleared by other methods.
If all else fails or if you’re uncertain about handling the blockage yourself, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Plumbers have the expertise and equipment to effectively diagnose and fix more drain blockages without the hassle. They can ensure that the blockage is completely cleared and provide advice on preventive measures to avoid future issues.
Remember, safety is paramount when dealing with blocked drains. Always take appropriate precautions, such as wearing gloves and eye protection, and never mix chemicals or substances without proper knowledge or guidance.
By following the above methods, you can increase the chances of preventing and clearing a blocked drain successfully.
However, if you’re unsure, or the blockage persists, it’s best to seek professional assistance to avoid using overly harsh chemicals or causing further damage to your plumbing system.
At Greenstar, we’ve worked on drainage and plumbing for over 30 years, making us one of the leading industry experts in the south including across Dorset and Hampshire. Need help with your plumbing or indoor drainage? Just get in touch – we’ll be happy to help.
Call us on 01202 355 344 or visit our contact page.
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