How To Prevent Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are a common household issue that can cause significant inconvenience, unpleasant smells, and even more severe plumbing problems if not addressed in time. Preventing blocked drains before they occur is essential for maintaining a smooth-flowing drainage system and avoiding costly repairs.

In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of clogged drains, share tips for preventing blocked drains, and provide you with essential drain maintenance tips to keep your plumbing system functioning efficiently.

Are you tired of dealing with blocked drains? At SE Drainage, we specialise in providing reliable, professional drain cleaning and unblocking solutions for residential and commercial properties.

Call us on 0800 654 6065 or email info@sedrainage.co.uk to prevent blocked drains!

Causes Of Clogged Drains

To effectively prevent blocked drains, it’s essential first to understand what causes them. Several factors contribute to clogged drains, and early identification can help you take preventive measures. Here are some of the most common causes of clogged drains:

• Hair and soap build-up: One of the leading causes of blocked drains in bathrooms is the accumulation of hair and soap residue. Over time, these substances combine to form a sticky mass that can easily clog pipes.
• Grease and Food Waste: In kitchens, grease from cooking oils, fats, and leftover food scraps are major contributors to drain blockages. When these substances cool down, they solidify, creating blockages restricting water flow.
• Foreign Objects: Accidental disposal of objects such as wet wipes, sanitary products, or small toys can block pipes. Even items labelled “flushable” may not break down properly, leading to a pipe blockage.
• Tree Roots: In older homes or properties with large trees nearby, tree roots can invade underground pipes, causing blockages. These roots can penetrate cracks in pipes and obstruct the water flow.

Tips For Preventing Blocked Drains

Prevention is always better than dealing with the frustration of a clogged drain. Implementing a few simple habits and precautions can go a long way in keeping your drains clear. Here are some practical tips for preventing blocked drains:

1. Use Drain Covers

One of the easiest ways to prevent blocked drains is by installing drain covers in all your sinks, showers, and bathtubs. These covers catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before they enter the drain and cause a blockage. They are easy to clean and can significantly reduce the risk of clogs.

2. Dispose Of Grease Properly

Never pour grease or cooking oils down the kitchen sink. Instead, dispose of them in a separate container. Grease can solidify in the pipes, leading to clogged drains and potential pipe damage. Similarly, avoid putting large food scraps down the sink. Always use a food waste bin or composting system to handle kitchen waste.

3. Regular Drain Cleaning

Make regular drain cleaning a part of your home maintenance routine. By cleaning your drains every few months, you can remove any minor debris build-up before it becomes a more significant blockage. Use a drain unblocker or a mild, non-toxic cleaning solution to keep your drains free of clogs.

4. Flush With Hot Water

Occasionally, flushing your drains with hot water can help prevent grease and soap build-up. Hot water helps break down grease or soap residue accumulating inside the pipes. Simply pour boiling water down the drain and allow it to flow through the pipes.

5. Use Natural Cleaning Solutions

Instead of harsh chemicals, consider using natural cleaning solutions like baking soda and vinegar. These drain cleaning techniques effectively break down minor blockages and keep your pipes clear without damaging your drainage system.

Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning

Sometimes, drains show subtle signs that indicate a need for maintenance. Awareness of these signs can help you act before a full-blown blockage occurs. Here are some common signs your drain needs cleaning:

• Slow drainage: If you notice that water is draining slowly from your sink or tub, it’s an early sign that debris is starting to accumulate inside the pipe. Left unchecked, this can lead to a complete blockage.
• Unpleasant Odours: A foul smell from your drains is another sign of a collapsed drain. This odour typically results from food debris, grease, or other organic matter stuck in the pipes.
• Gurgling Sounds: If you hear gurgling noises when water is draining, it might indicate that air is trapped in the pipes due to a partial blockage. This is a clear warning sign that your drains need to be cleaned.
• Water Backing Up: Water backing up in your sink or shower is a serious sign that a significant blockage has occurred. This issue can cause water damage to your property and should be addressed immediately.

Drain Maintenance Tips

Proper drainage system maintenance helps extend the life of your pipes and prevents costly repairs. Here are some essential drain maintenance tips:

• Inspect your drainage system: Regularly inspect your pipes for any signs of damage, leaks, or tree root invasion. Early detection can help you avoid more significant problems down the road.
• Use drain unblocking solutions: Keep a drain unblocker or enzyme-based solution on hand to quickly address minor clogs.
• Professional drainage system inspection: Consider hiring a professional plumber to perform an annual inspection. They can identify potential issues and clean hard-to-reach areas that may be overlooked during DIY maintenance.

Drain Unblocking Methods

If your drain does become clogged, there are several drain-unblocking methods you can try before calling in a professional plumber:

• Plunger: A plunger can often be the most effective tool for restoring proper drainage for minor clogs.
• Baking soda and vinegar: Pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain can help dissolve minor blockages.
• Plumbing snake: A plumbing snake or drain auger can break up and remove more stubborn blockages.

How Can SE Drainage Help You?

Preventing blocked drains is essential for maintaining the efficiency of your home’s plumbing system.

If you encounter a stubborn blockage you can’t handle alone, don’t hesitate to call our professional plumbers at SE Drainage for expert drain unblocking solutions.

Contact us today, and let us help care for your drains!