Everything You Need to Know
Blocked drains are a common household problem, and understanding what causes them is the first step in preventing them. So, let’s look at some of the most common culprits – along with when it’s time to call in a specialist in blocked drains London property owners recommend.
Food Waste
One of the leading causes of blocked drains is food waste. So many people assume that food scraps can be flushed down the sink, but this isn’t true! Items like coffee grounds, grease, oil, and vegetable peelings can all build up over time. That’s why it’s a good idea to use sink strainers to catch food debris before it goes down the drain. Never pour grease or oil down the sink either. Instead, let it solidify and throw it in the bin.
Hair Buildup
Hair is another common culprit, especially in bathrooms. Hair can accumulate, bind with soap scum, and form a clog that obstructs the flow of water. Over time, this buildup can become big enough to cause complete blockages. To prevent this, place strainers in the shower and bath drains, and regularly clean drains of visible hair to stop it from accumulating deeper within the pipes.
Wet Wipes
Toilets can get clogged from flushing items that shouldn’t be flushed, such as wet wipes, cotton pads, and sanitary products. Even if a product is labelled as ‘flushable’, it doesn’t always break down in water as well as toilet paper, leading to blockages further down the drainage system. Remember, the three things that can be flushed down the toilet are pee, poo, and paper! Anything else should go in the bin.
Foreign Objects
Drains, especially in households with young children, can sometimes fall victim to foreign objects. Toys, jewellery, cotton buds, and other small items can easily get flushed or washed down drains, causing blockages. So be sure to keep an eye on what goes down your drains, especially in households with children. It’s also a good idea to take the time to educate everyone in the home on what can and can’t be flushed or poured down the sink.
Why Call a Professional?
While it’s tempting to try and clear a blockage yourself, it’s important to know when to call in a professional. Persistent blockages, bad smells, gurgling sounds, or slow drainage can be signs of a more serious issue. Calling in a skilled, experienced team ensures the problem is properly diagnosed and treated, saving you time, effort, and potentially costly repairs in the future. Plus finding a great plumber means that you can take a proactive approach to caring for your drains, spotting problems before they develop.
What Now?
Blocked drains can be a frustrating, inconvenient issue, but with proper care and prevention, they can often be avoided. By understanding the common causes of blockages and working with a skilled plumber, you will be able to keep your drains in great shape for years to come!
