Blocked drains are a frequent and troublesome problem for a lot of households. Whether it’s a clogged kitchen sink, a toilet that refuses to flush properly, or a sluggish shower drain, these problems often stem from preventable blockages.
Failing to address these issues quickly can result in substantial and costly drainage problems later down the line. In this blog post, we explore the top causes of blocked drains and some of the smartest ways to prevent this problem from happening in the first place. Keep reading to learn more.
- Foreign Objects Flushed Down the Toilet
One of the most common culprits behind blocked drains is foreign objects being flushed down the toilet. This can range from baby wipes and cotton pads to sanitary items and even children’s toys.
Unfortunately, drainage systems are not designed to handle such foreign objects, which can inevitably lead to blockages and, in the worst cases, overflowing sewage. In order to prevent foreign objects from causing toilet blockages, consider putting a small bin near to the toilet.
This can encourage anyone who is using the toilet to properly dispose of sanitary items, cotton pads, or face wipes in the bin rather than flushing them. As for children’s toys and personal items like car keys or phones, it’s vital to exercise extra caution and avoid accidental flushing.
- Leaves and Outdoor Debris
Surprisingly, leaves and outdoor debris are another common cause of blocked drains, especially during stormy weather. Neglected gutters and overgrown gardens exacerbate this problem by allowing leaves and debris to wash into the drains, leading to blockages.
Preventing this issue can be challenging, but one effective solution is to use drain guards to cover drain entrances. If the problem persists despite preventive measures, it’s advisable to consult a professional drainage specialist for expert advice.
- Grease and Fat from Cooking
Washing grease and fat down the sink after cooking is a common yet harmful practice that leads to many blocked drains. This habit can result in the accumulation of grease and fat in the pipes, forming what are known as ‘fatbergs’.
Fatbergs obstruct pipes and cause significant backup issues. To stop your drains being blocked in this way, make it a habit to pour excess grease and fat into a container and dispose of it in the rubbish rather than down the sink. This simple change can save you money on plumbing repairs and extend the lifespan of your drain pipes.
- Hair and Soap Suds in the Bathroom
Bathroom sinks, bathtubs, and showers are susceptible to blockages caused by two common culprits: hair and soap suds. These everyday occurrences can accumulate in your pipes and lead to blocked or slow-running drains.
To mitigate this issue and reduce the risk of bathroom drain problems, you should consider using drain covers over the plug holes. These covers catch strands of hair and prevent them from becoming entangled in your drain pipes, therefore, averting blockages and ensuring optimal drain function.
- Food Remnants and Waste
It can be tempting to force food leftovers or remnants down the plughole, but this needs to be avoided. Leftover food is a common cause of blocked kitchen sinks, and this issue can be easily prevented by scraping excess food remnants off your plate and disposing of them in the bin or compost bin before washing. This simple change can have a significant positive impact on your drainage system’s health.
Need Assistance With Blocked Drains in Borehamwood?
Do you live in the Borehamwood area and require professional help with drain unblocking? If the answer is yes, then Origin Drainage and Plumbing is the leading company to choose.
We are a reliable local drainage company, offering quick and affordable solutions. Our family-run business prioritises quick responses, ensuring your satisfaction. Don’t worry about hidden charges; we’re upfront and affordable.
With years of experience and professional equipment, we guarantee to get your drains back to perfect working order. Contact us today at 01727 220 396 or 07805 565 514 for a rapid response. Trust in us to clear your blocked drains effectively and efficiently.