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Common Causes of Blocked Drains and How to Prevent Them

  • Posted by:
  • Admin
  • Tags:
  • drains, drain maintenance, bathroom drains, external drains
  • Posted date:
  • 01-12-2024
Common Causes of Blocked Drains and How to Prevent Them

Fat, Oil, and Grease Build-Up in Drains

Fat, oil, and grease are major contributors to blocked drains. When these substances are washed down the sink, they cool and harden, forming a sticky layer inside the pipes. Over time, this build-up creates a blockage, making it difficult for water to flow through. Preventing fat, oil, and grease build-up is simple.  

Avoid pouring these substances down the sink. Instead, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the bin. You can also use drain cleaning products to help clear minor build-ups. Regular drain inspections can identify potential issues before they become major problems. By adopting these preventative drain care measures, you can avoid unnecessarily calling on professional drain unblocking services.

Hair Accumulation in Bathroom Drains

Hair is another frequent cause of blocked drains, particularly in bathrooms. Hair can clump together with soap scum and other debris, creating stubborn blockages. Use a hair catcher or screen over your shower or bath plughole to prevent hair-related blockages. Ensure you regularly clean out these catchers to maintain effective drainage.

Additionally, running hot water down the drain after showers can help prevent hair and other residues from forming extensive blockages. Regular drain maintenance can keep your bathroom plumbing clear and functional. If hair blockages occur frequently, consider contacting emergency drain services for swift drain unblocking.

Soap Scum and Residue Buildup

Soap scum forms when soap mixes with minerals in water. Over time, soap scum can contribute to blocked drains by forming a hard, sticky residue that narrows the pipe. To tackle soap scum blockages, consider switching to liquid soap, which typically produces less scum than bar soap.

Regular cleaning with a mixture of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda can help break down soap scum. These DIY drain-unblocking methods often prevent significant build-up. Routine cleaning combined with preventative drain care will ease the strain on your plumbing system and keep it running smoothly.

Foreign Objects and Improper Waste Disposal

Foreign objects and improper waste disposal are common causes of blocked drains. Items like wipes, sanitary products, cotton buds, and even small toys can get lodged in pipes, leading to blockages. Only flush toilet paper and human waste to avoid foreign objects in drains. Educate household members about what should and shouldn’t be washed down sinks or flushed.

Drain cleaning tips include keeping sinks clear of small items and using waste bins for non-flushable products. Regular drain inspections can help detect and remove foreign objects before they cause serious blockages, reducing the need for professional drain unblocking services.

Moreover, drain covers in sinks, showers, and bathtubs are effective preventative measures for catching debris such as food scraps and other small particles. These covers are inexpensive and easy to clean, offering a simple way to maintain the flow of your drains. Taking small steps like these can extend the lifespan of your plumbing system and save money on costly repairs.

Leaves and Outdoor Debris in External Drains

Outdoor drain blockages often occur due to leaves, twigs, and other debris collecting in guttering and drainage systems. This debris can prevent rainwater from flowing away from your home, leading to flooding and damage. Prevention involves regular garden maintenance to clear fallen leaves and debris. Installing a gutter guard can also reduce the amount of debris that finds its way into drains.

Keeping outdoor drains clear and uncluttered is key to maintaining effective drainage. If there are any indoor drain blockages, consider consulting professional services to remove tree roots in drain pipes and other hard-to-reach debris using specialised equipment.

Blocked drains are a common issue no matter where you are. Midlands Drainage Solutions LTD provides specialist drain services to help keep your drains clear, clean and free from obstructions.