Owning a home or property in Redhill comes with its own unique set of responsibilities, one of them being blocked drains redhill maintenance. An often overlooked aspect of this is caring for the drainage system. This hidden titan of household functionality can often get neglected, until that unfortunate day when your drains get blocked, a situation that can lead to inconveniences, unsanitary conditions, and pricey repair bills. Understanding what causes blocked drains and how to fix them can save you time, money and stress.
The question that arises then is – What causes blocked drains? There are several contributing factors, a few of them specific to different types of drains.
1. Hair: Regardless of the length, strands of hair can cause significant problems to your drain. Over time, hair can gather and combine with grease and other sticky substances to create a blockage. This regularly happens in shower and bathroom sinks.
2. Fat and Grease: Fat and grease are significant contributors to blocked drains, specifically in kitchens. When washed down the sink, they can cool and solidify, causing stubborn clotting that obstructs the drain.
3. Foreign Objects: This specifically refers to any items that should not be discarded in the drain. This includes sanitary products, children’s toys, paper, and even food waste.
4. Tree Roots: In external drains, tree roots can pose a unique problem. They can grow into the pipes, causing them to crack and ultimately leading to blockage.
5. Poorly installed or broken pipes: Broken, crushed, or poorly installed pipes can restrict the flow of waste, causing it to build up and cause a blockage.
Understanding these causes is already half the battle won, but how does one attend to already blocked drains? Here are a few preventive and corrective measures:
1. Use mesh screens: A simple but effective solution is to use mesh screens over the drain in showers and tubs to catch hair and soap particles.
2. Proper Disposal: Avoid disposing fats, oils and other grease down the sink. Furthermore, educate your children about what is and isn’t suitable to flush down the toilet to prevent the disposal of foreign objects.
3. Regular Cleaning: Clean your drains regularly using natural cleaning methods. For instance, flushing your drain with hot water or a combination of vinegar and baking soda can help to keep them free from blockages.
4. Professional Inspection: Have your pipes checked regularly by professional plumbers. They have the skills and tools to intercept developing problems and take preventive measures.
For existing blockages, a plunger can sometimes do the trick for minor obstructions. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to call professional help. Professionals can use a specialty tool, such as a plumber’s snake or hydro-jet, to dislodge and flush out the blockage.
In conclusion, understanding the common causes of blocked drains and the preventive measures to avoid them can save you a lot of hassle. A mix of preventive measures, good habits and regular checks can help keep your drains running smooth and clear. However, if all else fails, professional plumbing services in Redhill are just a call away to help you sort out even the most stubborn of blockages.