blocked drains bromley are a particularly common problem in the area, but fortunately there are a few ways of tackling them. One of the most reliable methods is to call in a professional plumber, however for smaller jobs you can have a go yourself with just a few simple steps.
The Causes of Blocked Drains
One of the first steps in dealing with blocked drains is understanding what is causing them in the first place. The most common causes are paper and other foreign objects being flushed down the toilet or even just general build-up of waste. People who live in areas where there are lot of trees may also find that their drains become blocked from falling leaves and debris. It’s also important to check whether there are any blockages further up your drainpipe such as collapsed or damaged pipes.
General Prevention Tips
It’s much easier to prevent blocked drains than it is to unblock them, so it’s always worth taking a few preventative measures. These include not flushing anything down the toilet which isn’t meant to be there, such as sanitary items or food. You should also make sure to regularly clean out your sink and shower traps, and remove any leaves and debris from outside your home if necessary.
Basic Cleaning Methods
If you have smaller blockages, there are some basic cleaning methods which you can try. First off, you can use boiling water to attempt to break up the blockage. Simply boil a large pot of water and slowly pour it down the drain. This helps to loosen the dirt and break up any clumps. You can also use an old-fashioned plunger; just make sure you cover the overflow hole to create a tight seal.
Chemical Cleaners
For more stubborn blockages, it might be worth trying chemical cleaners. There are various cleaners available from supermarkets and hardware stores, many of which are suitable for clearing blocked drains. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully, as misuse of these products can damage pipes or cause other harm.
Call in a Professional
Finally, if all else fails then it’s time to call in a professional. Most plumbers will be able to identify the root cause of the blockage and fix it promptly and safely. They may need to use specialist equipment such as cameras to inspect the inside of the pipes, or hydrojetting to clear away more stubborn blockages.
Regardless of the method you choose to tackle your blocked drains, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from happening again in the future. Regular cleaning, debris removal, and careful disposal of materials such as cooking fat and wipes can all help to avoid more serious issues down the line.
A blocked drain can be a real nuisance and should never be ignored. The symptoms of a blocked drain, such as slow draining water, gurgling noises, or bad odors, can indicate a variety of underlying issues that should be addressed quickly. Common causes of blocked drains are the buildup of soap, grease, hair, food, and other foreign objects that can build up in the pipes over time. Other causes of blocked drains can include tree roots and collapsed or cracked pipes. Homeowners can try to clear a blocked drain through home remedies such as plunging or snaking the drain themselves, however in some cases a professional plumber must be called to address the issue.