Blocked drains can pose as a serious inconvenience to any homeowner. Not only do they cause an unpleasant odour, but they can also lead to a variety of plumbing problems and damage to your property. In Exeter, a common problem amongst homeowners are blocked drains which is often a result of a build-up of waste, grease, and other materials. What can you do to avoid such situations? Here is a simple guide designed to help you avert problematic blocked drains in Exeter.
The first step to preventing blocked drains is understanding the key causes. The most usual contributors are often hair, soap and food waste, which can easily build-up in your pipes over time if the drains are not regularly cleaned. Foreign objects such as baby wipes, nappies, or even toys can also be accidentally flushed down the toilet, causing immediate blockage.
To avoid blockages caused by hair and soap, consider installing a catchment device in your bathroom sink, shower drain, and bathtub. These catchers can trap hair and small debris before they find their way into your pipes. This method is particularly useful as it also makes the cleaning process a breeze. Simply remove the catcher, clear the debris, and reinstall.
On the matter of food waste, never dispose of it down the sink, even if you have a garbage disposal unit. Oil, fat, and grease can solidify in your pipes, leading to a blockage. You could repurpose these into compost or dispose of them into the bin. Using a sink strainer to catch small leftover food particles can also help you avoid a blocked drain.
It is equally important to teach children about what can and can’t be flushed down the toilet to prevent accidental blockages. Toilets are only designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Installing a small bin next to your toilet can provide blocked drains exeter an alternative disposal method for non-flushable items.
Now, it may sound obvious, but regular cleaning of your drains is also essential. Chemical drain cleaners may seem like a convenient solution, but they can damage your pipes over the long term. Safer alternatives include vinegar, baking soda, or even boiling water, which can break down minor blockages and keep your pipes clean.
In addition to these steps, regular professional maintenance will help keep serious blockages at bay. If you are not comfortable with doing the preventative measures all by yourself, hiring professional drain cleaning services in Exeter would be a wise choice. They can inspect and clean your drains thoroughly, helping you avoid major plumbing issues in the future.
In conclusion, preventing blocked drains in Exeter is all about proactively managing the waste that goes down them and keeping the pipes clean. Small, everyday gestures like installing drain catchers, mindful waste disposal and regular drain cleaning significantly reduce the risk of blocked drains. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. But remember, prevention is always better than the cure. Happy plumbing!
