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Common Drainage Problems for Homeowners
In this blog we will delve into common issues homeowners face with their drainage systems. From troublesome blockages due to fats, oils, and grease in kitchen drains to toilet blockages caused by improper flushing habits, we explore practical solutions to keep your home's drainage flowing smoothly. We'll also tackle the challenge of shower drains clogged with hair and soap scum. Join us as we discuss prevention tips, effective cleaning techniques, and expert advice to help you maintain a clear and functional drainage system throughout your home.
Toilet Blockages
Toilet blockages often stem from the improper disposal of non-flushable items such as wet wipes, cotton buds, and sanitary products down the toilet. These items do not break down easily in water and can accumulate along the pipes, causing stubborn blockages that hinder proper flushing and drainage.
Resolving toilet blockages typically involves using a plunger or auger to dislodge the debris and restore normal functionality to the toilet. However with more stubborn blockages the help of a professional is often desirable. This is because in many cases the blockages are too stubborn to be resolved with at home remedies. Drainage engineers will use a high pressure jetting hose to force the blockage out and allow the water to flow freely once again.
Prevention is key to avoiding such issues: educate household members about what can and cannot be flushed, and encourage the use of waste bins for disposing of non-flushable items. Implementing these practices helps maintain efficient plumbing systems and reduces the risk of costly repairs.
Shower Drain Blockages
Shower drain blockages often occur due to the accumulation of hair that goes down the drain during showers. Hair strands can combine with soap scum and other residues, gradually forming clogs that impede water flow.
Resolving shower drain blockages typically involves physically removing the hair buildup using tools like a drain snake or specialized drain cleaning tool. More often than not, a drainage engineer will use a battery powered drain snake. This automatically feeds cable down the shower trap and brings back any hair or other debris that may have been causing the blockage, allowing the shower to drain again.
To prevent shower drain blockages, homeowners should install drain covers or traps to catch hair before it enters the drain. Regular cleaning of these traps and periodic maintenance with hot water or vinegar can help keep shower drains clear and functioning properly, ensuring efficient water drainage during showers.
Kitchen Drain Blockages
Kitchen sink blockages are a frequent occurrence primarily due to improper waste disposal practices, particularly the pouring of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) down the drain. Over time, these substances solidify and accumulate in the pipes, leading to clogs that restrict water flow. This can cause some very stubborn blockages. Resolving such blockages often requires methods like using a plunger or drain snake to dislodge the fat and oil. In more serious cases it is advisable to seek professional help from a drainage engineer, who will use rodding or even high pressure jetting to clear the blockage.
To prevent kitchen sink blockages, it's crucial to avoid pouring fat, oil or grease down the drain. Instead, collect excess grease in a container and dispose of it in the trash. Regularly clean drain traps and use hot water to flush away any residual grease and debris. These practices help maintain clear drains and prevent costly plumbing issues in the long run.
Looking After Your Drainage Systems As a Homeowner
Overall, as a homeowner it is imperative to deploy preventive strategies to protect your home drain systems. Simple practices such as avoiding the flushing of non-flushable items, using drain covers to catch hair and debris, and disposing of fats and grease properly can go a long way in maintaining clear and functional drainage systems. Regular maintenance, such as periodic cleaning of drains and gutters, also helps identify potential issues early before they escalate. By adopting these proactive measures, homeowners can save time, money, and inconvenience, ensuring their drainage systems remain efficient and problem-free for the long term. However, should you encounter any drainage issues that you are unable to resolve yourself, feel free to call upon one of our professional drainage engineers today.