Plymouth – city of ships, home to a countless number of households and, sadly, often the centre of a lesser desirable phenomenon – blocked drains. From the kitchen sink, shower, toilet, and outside drains are all susceptible to becoming blocked and creating an array of problems for homeowners in Plymouth. But believe it or not, this chaotic and inconvenient situation is largely preventable. Here’s your ultimate guide on how to prevent blocked drains in Plymouth.
Firstly, understand the culprits. The majority of blockages are caused by the accumulation of food particles, grease, hair, and other debris. So, identifying and appropriately disposing of waste significantly reduces the risk of blockages.
Kitchen drains are especially prone to be clogged by food waste and grease. For prevention, it’s always a good practice to scrape your plates into the rubbish bin before washing. Utilize a sink strainer to capture smaller food particles that try to escape down the drain. Pouring cooking grease or oil directly into your drain is a cardinal sin – these substances harden within pipes and cause significant blockages. Rather, let them cool, collect them in a container and dispose of it in the trash.
For bathrooms, hair is the leading villain. A simple, cost-effective way to prevent hair blockages is by placing a trap over your shower or bathtub drain. This catches hair and you can easily remove it. Also, avoid flushing non-flushable items down the blocked drains plymouth toilet, such as wet wipes or sanitary items – these items don’t break down and are notorious for causing blockages.
Outdoor drains can accumulate leaves, soil, and other natural debris. Regularly clearing your garden and maintaining outside drainage areas are effective preventive measures. Use drain guards to allow water to flow while catching unwanted debris.
The occasional use of bacterial drain cleaners (more natural, less abrasive ones considering environmental concerns) can also be a good option for keeping your pipes clear. These work by breaking down the organic material which could potentially cause a blockage.
Subsequently, it’s crucial to be attentive and act at the first signs of a potential blockage. Slower drainage, unpleasant odours, and strange noises coming from your pipes can all point toward a developing blockage. If noticed early, you can often tackle these issues before they escalate into full-blown blockages requiring professional help.
Despite all prevention, if you face a blockage, don’t despair. Simple ones can often be cleared via handheld drain augers, plunge or drain snakes. For stubborn blockages, you always have the services of professional drain clearance companies in Plymouth. However, never attempt to disassemble the piping yourself or use caustic, professional-grade drain cleaners without relevant protective gear or experience.
In addition, as much as home-owning is about DIY, it’s also about knowing when to call a professional. Regular professional inspections and maintenance of your drainage system will keep it in top condition and spot any potential problems before they turn to blockages. It might appear an unnecessary investment, but this proactive approach can save a lot in the long run.
Overall, preventing blocked drains in Plymouth is all about mindfulness – mindful disposal, mindful usage, and mindful maintenance. It requires some regular effort and commitment, but the benefit translates to a hassle-free drainage system and a peaceful home environment. Remember, the care and vigilance you give to the drains today will spare you the stress, time, and cost of dealing with blocked drains tomorrow.