One of the most annoying plumbing problems around the home is when you end up with blocked drains and toilets. This can create an unsightly mess, as well as leaving you with a rather unpleasant smell. Luckily there are some things that you can do yourself to remedy this situation, such as using liquid drain cleaners or even plungers for clearing blockage. If these methods don’t work then it could be time to call a professional plumber in order to get the issue fixed quickly.more information
What Can Cause Your Drains to Become Blocked?
There are a variety of factors that can cause your drains to become blocked. One of the most common is a build-up of hair, which can slowly accumulate over time and form a clog. Other items such as food scraps, hygiene products and soap scum can also lead to a blockage. If you haven’t had your drains professionally cleaned in a while, then this is another factor which could be contributing to the problem.
How to Unblock Your Drains
If you have a blocked drain, then the first thing that you should do is try and clear it yourself. One method is to use a plunger which creates a suction effect that can help dislodge the blockage. You can also purchase liquid chemical drain cleaning products from your local hardware store, however, exercise caution when using these as they can be dangerous if used incorrectly.
For more stubborn blockages, the next step is to use an auger device. This tool is pushed down into the pipe and uses a coiled cable to snake its way through the blockage, breaking it up in the process. It’s important to make sure that you use the correct size of auger for the job, as using one that is too small will not be effective.
Finally, if all else fails then it could be a good idea to call in a professional plumber. A qualified tradesperson will have the right tools and experience to easily identify the nature of the blockage and take the necessary steps to rectify it.
Regular Maintenance Prevents Blocked Drains
The best way to prevent blocked drains is to make sure that you keep on top of regular maintenance. This means cleaning and declogging your drains on a regular basis. There are a range of different products available from your local hardware store which can be used for this purpose, as well as professional services that can clean out your pipes more effectively.
It can also be helpful to check any outdoor drains around your property, as leaves and other debris can quickly accumulate and form a blockage. If you’re not confident in doing this yourself then you can always call in a plumber to help.
More Information
Nobody ever wants to deal with a blocked drain, but unfortunately, they are a fact of life. The key is to take the necessary steps to ensure that any potential blockages are prevented or dealt with in a timely manner. Whether you choose to use DIY methods or hire a professional, always make sure that safety is your number one priority.
If you need more information about how to unblock your drains or about the techniques used by professional plumbers, then please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of expert plumbers would be happy to answer any questions you may have.