Blocked drains can be a real nuisance, causing inconvenience and potential damage to your home. Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can take to prevent these issues from occurring. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, shower drains, or toilet, understanding the common causes of blockages and implementing preventative measures can save you time and money in the long run. Here are some practical tips to keep your plumbing system in top shape.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
- Wet Wipes: Despite being marketed as “flushable,” wet wipes do not break down easily and can cause significant blockages. Always dispose of them in the bin, not the toilet.
- Food Particles and Food Scraps: These can easily clog your kitchen sink. Use a sink strainer to catch food waste and dispose of it in the compost or bin.
- Tree Roots: Roots from nearby trees can infiltrate your drainage system, leading to severe blockages. Regular inspections can help identify and address this issue before it becomes a major problem.
- Toilet Paper: Using excessive amounts of toilet paper can clog your toilet. Consider using a moderate amount and opting for brands that disintegrate easily.
- Grease and Fat: Pouring hot fat down the sink might seem convenient, but as it cools, it solidifies and can block your pipes. Dispose of grease in a container and throw it away once it solidifies.
How to Prevent Blockage in Drains
- Be Mindful of What You Flush: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Dispose of wet wipes, sanitary products, and other non-degradable items in the bin.
- Use Drain Strainers: Place strainers in your kitchen sink and shower drains to catch food particles, hair, and other debris.
- Dispose of Food Waste Properly: Instead of rinsing food scraps down the sink drain, throw them in the compost or rubbish bin.
- Regular Maintenance: Periodically pour boiling water down the drain to help dissolve any grease build-up. For tougher clogs, you can use a plumber’s snake, available at any hardware store, to clear the blockage.
- Inspect for Tree Roots: If you suspect tree roots might be causing blockages, consult with a professional plumber for an inspection and potential root removal.
How Would You Solve or Prevent Problems on Clogged Drains?
Solving Existing Clogs:
- Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water down the drain can help dissolve grease and soap scum.
- Plunger: A plunger can be effective for dislodging minor clogs in sinks and toilets.
- Plumber’s Snake: For more stubborn blockages, a plumber’s snake can be used to reach deeper into the pipes and break up the clog.
- Chemical Drain Cleaners: Use with caution as they can damage pipes over time. Opt for eco-friendly options if available.
Preventing Future Clogs:
- Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your drains using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water to keep them clear.
- Proper Disposal: Be vigilant about what goes down your drains, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Professional Inspections: Schedule regular inspections with a licensed plumber to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
Blocked drains can cause significant disruption in your home, but with these tips, you can prevent many common causes of blockages. For more complex issues or persistent clogs, it’s essential to know when to call a plumber for a clogged drain expert guidance for your home.
Conclusion
Preventing blocked drains requires a mix of mindful habits and regular maintenance. By being aware of what goes down your drains and taking proactive steps, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of severe blockages. However, if you encounter persistent issues, professional help may be necessary.
At Pin Point Plumbing, we specialise in fast blocked drains repair by expert plumbers in Sydney. Fully licensed and insured, we offer a lifetime warranty on all labour and upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Starting at just $79, our services are both affordable and effective.
We can clear your drain with zero digging, providing a fast, affordable, and permanent solution for blocked drains without disrupting your lawn. Our CCTV camera drain inspection equipment allows us to quickly locate the cause of your blockage, and our fully qualified plumbers use the best methods to fix the issue efficiently and effectively.
CALL NOW! 02 8999 7483