Common Causes of Blocked Drains

Drains become easily blocked especially with old systems. There are different reasons that a drain might become blocked, preventions and fixes that you can use. Today we will look at some common causes of blocked drains.

Build Ups

Hair, paper, limescale and other build ups can cause blocked drains. When a little goes down the drain it is fine but over time they build up and can form quite significant blockages. Putting a hair trapper and descaling your sink/bath every six months or so can be a great way of keeping your drains unblocked and running freely.

Foreign Objects

Objects that are not supposed to end up in drains often do and this can lead to blockages. Feminine hygiene products and nappies are a big cause of blocked drains. Drainage systems (especially old Victorian systems that are in place in most of the UK) can not sustain these items. They need to be disposed of correctly into a bin.
Toys and other items often get flushed down the toilet by younger household members. Being aware of this and teaching what you can and can’t flush is a great way to get around this problem and remove the idea that the toilet is a fun toy!

Breakages/Poor Water Flow

It may be that your drains are blocked due to breakages or a poor water flow. This is a little more difficult to remedy. Getting a professional round to survey your drainage system is a great way to ensure you have some stability when it comes to your system. They will be able to date the system and tell you whether you might need a small fix or a full overhaul in time. If you have an old system, it might be best to get your drainage and plumbing redone when you move into your house and save in the long run.

It is a great idea to call in a professional to unblock your drains and give you advice. There are many places that offer links to specialised experts in the field who can give you sound advice on how best to keep your drains unblocked.

Ensure that you take care of your drainage system and know how far you can take it. Do not flush foreign objects or sanitary products as the systems were not designed for heavy use like this. Call in a professional to unblock your drains and give you advice.

A drainage issue isn’t something you can necessarily handle yourself. To avoid future problems, a contractor must address the underlying condition. This isn’t always easy, but the right drain experts will work with you to fix any issues as effectively and efficiently as possible. When choosing a drainage firm in London, here’s what to look for:

• A good contractor will have good references. You want a company with expertise that knows what it’s doing. Positive references are a good indication that your contractor will resolve the problem in the most suitable way, is courteous and easy to deal with, and follows through on their promises.
• Your contractor should offer a significant guarantee. This is a sign that they’re confident in the quality of their work, so watch out for any contractor who won’t.
• For drainage contractors, price isn’t always the best indicator of quality. Rely more on references, guarantees, and their expertise in the field. The cheapest quote could lead to an ineffective solution.
• As a customer, you should be completely at ease with your contractor. Your contractor should explain the problem with your drains clearly and suggest practical solutions. If you’re uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to change firms altogether.
• A scale drawing should be available. A good sewerage company in London must have general knowledge of construction and the relevant building regulations. The contractor should give you a clear, scale drawing of the project and sit down with you and explain everything in detail. It’s a good opportunity to air any worries you may have.

While there are some home remedies you can try to resolve problems with blockages, you will often end up searching Google for a ‘drainage company near me’ for professional help. Listed below are a few of the most common causes of clogged drains and the prescribed fixes for each of them:

• Hair: Plunging the drain is sometimes successful. You may be tempted to try a commercially available drain cleaner, but this can damage pipes if used frequently. Try and use a baking soda and vinegar solution on a regular basis to keep pipes clear, but if obstructions build-up, you may need a drainage contractor.
• Soap: The ideal method to remove soap accumulated in pipes is pressure cleaning by experts.
• Dirt: Using drain rods may work, but if you’re inexperienced, you could damage your pipework. Call in the professionals.
• Oil, Grease, and Fat: Try mixing some detergent with hot water in the sink bowl, and flush it away with hot water. This usually dissolves any hardened fat. Plunge the sink, but if the problem doesn’t resolve, contact an expert.
• Food Waste: Avoid flushing food waste down your drain. Clear dishes into the bin before washing them. Food waste may still accumulate over time, so if water runs sluggishly away when you remove the sink plug, you may need expert help to flush through your system with high-powered water.