Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners in Reading, UK deal with. They can cause unpredicted inconvenience, potential health hazards and can result in costly repairs if not swiftly dealt with. Despite being a common occurrence, many people don’t actually understand what causes these blockages in the first place.
Here are the top causes of blocked drains in Reading, and what you can do to avoid them.
1. Hair
Hair is easily the number one culprit when it comes to blocked drains, especially in the shower and bathroom sink. Over time, as strands of hair gather and bind together, they form hairballs that can significantly block your drainage system.
To avoid this, you might want to consider fitting all your bathroom drains with guards that can sift and trap hair. Regular cleaning can also drastically reduce the possibility of hair build-up leading to blockages.
2. Grease and Fatty Substance
Grease does not go well with pipes. When grease and oils are poured down the sink, they slowly accumulate on the inner walls of drainage pipes and harden into a nasty coating that obstructs water flow.
Preventing this is quite straightforward. Never pour leftover grease or cooking oil down the sink. Instead, let it solidify in a can or jar before throwing it away in the trash.
3. Foreign Objects
The improper disposal of foreign objects such as toiletries, children’s toys, nappies, wipes, and other products can result in serious blockages. These items are not meant to be flushed down the toilet or thrown into the sink because they can easily get stuck and accumulate.
To avoid this, avoid flushing anything down the toilet except human waste and toilet paper. Make it a rule also to keep small objects away from sinks and toilets.
4. Trees and Leaves
Outdoor drains can often get blocked by leaves, twigs and even tree roots. Trees are attracted to the nearest source of water (your pipes) and will often penetrate the pipes to reach this water source, causing blockages.
To prevent this, regularly clean your outdoor areas and ensure your gutters and outdoor drains are free from leaves and debris that can cause blockages. Consider seeking professional advice where overgrown trees are too close to your pipe system.
5. Heavy Rain and Storm
The unpredictable British weather, with heavy rain and storms, can also result in blocked drains. Excess water flowing into drains can lead to overflows which could easily translate to blockages.
To mitigate this, regular check-ups and cleaning of your drains can keep them flowing smoothly.
6. Dirt and Soap
Not surprisingly, dirt and soap accumulate in bathroom pipes over the course of time. When soap and dirt combine, they create hard sediments that block your pipes.
To prevent blockages, encourage family members to rinse sinks and showers after use to ensure soapy water and dirt are fully flushed down the drain.
In summarizing, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to blocked drains. Simple day-to-day changes in your habits can make a significant difference.
If you find yourself dealing with persistent blocked drains despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. They blocked drains reading can offer a more thorough drain cleaning service and provide expert advice on ways to prevent future blockages. Regular plumbing check-ups can also help identify potential blockages before they become a serious problem, saving you time, stress and money.