Dealing with blocked drains can be an incredibly frustrating, and sometimes, an inevitably messy experience. Having your daily routine disrupted by blocked drains at your home or workplace in Sevenoaks can be very inconvenient. While getting a professional plumber is the best approach, there are certain do’s and don’ts you can follow when you face such a situation. Here, we’ve compiled the most efficient guidelines to help you tackle this household challenge.
DO’s When Dealing with Blocked Drains
1. Act Promptly
Never ignore the early signs of a blocked drain. If you notice slower draining, gurgling noises from the toilet, or unpleasant odours, take immediate actions to prevent further damage.
2. Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your drains is crucial. Routine check-ups and minor cleanings prevent blockages and detect issues early, saving you from future large-scale problems.
3. Invest in Screen Strainers
Using drain screen strainers to catch hair, food particles, and other small items is an effective preventive measure. Regularly clean these strainers to ensure the smooth running of your drain system.
4. Use Pipe Snake or Plunger
Simple tools such as the pipe snake or a plunger can be quite effective in removing minor blockages. They are easy to use and can clear clogs without the use of chemicals, taking care of the environment at the same time.
5. Seek Professional Help
When your attempts to clear a blocked drain fail, or the problem recurs often, it’s essential to call a professional. Trained plumbers have the necessary tools and expertise to define and solve the issue.
DON’Ts When Dealing with Blocked Drains
1. Avoid Pouring Grease and Oil Down The Drain
Never pour oil, grease, or fat down your drain. While liquid in form, they solidify upon cooling and blocked drains sevenoaks can stick to the pipe walls, leading to blockages.
2. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
Many homeowners resort to harsh chemicals to clear blocked drains. However, some chemicals can cause more harm than good, leading to pipe corrosion, environmental pollution and health hazards on direct contact.
3. Don’t Take Apart Pipes If You’re Not Sure
If a blockage is deep within your pipes, you might feel like disassembling them for a clearer view. If you don’t have plumbing experience, it’s best to leave it to professional plumbers. You may cause more damage, leading to more costly repairs.
4. Don’t Flush Unsuitable Items
Many drain blockages are caused by flushing inappropriate items down the toilet. Ensure only human waste and toilet paper goes down the toilet. Items like nappies, wipes, sanitary products, cotton balls etc. should be disposed of in the trash.
5. Don’t Ignore Repeated Blockages
If blockages become a regular phenomenon, don’t ignore it. It might signal an underlying issue with your plumbing system. Hire a professional plumber to inspect and solve the problem.
To summarise, when dealing with blocked drains in Sevenoaks, the key lies in timely intervention, regular maintenance, and above all, avoiding practices that might harm your drain and plumbing system. Always err on the side of caution. If in doubt, consult with a professional plumber who can quickly diagnose and solve the problem. Keep in mind that prevention is better than cure, and applying these do’s and don’ts will keep your drain system efficient and blockage-free.