Blocked drains are an inconvenient and frustrating problem that many Fareham residents face. They not only cause wastage of water but also can affect aspects of your daily life like showering, cleaning, and even toileting. Addressing these issues ASAP is necessary lest they result in expensive repairs. This comprehensive guide demonstrates some effective solutions that might help you cope with blocked drains in Fareham.
Understanding the Causes of Blocked Drains
Before we delve into the solutions, it is crucial to understand the primary causes behind blocked drains. These can include:
– Excessive toilet paper or sanitary items
– Hair build-up
– Fats, oils and grease that have solidified
– Foreign objects, like toys or jewellery
– Broken pipes
– Plant and tree roots intrusion.
Effective Solutions for Blocked Drains
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar: This is a natural, affordable and effective solution. Take equal parts of baking soda and vinegar, combine them and then pour down the blocked drain. After about 20 minutes, rinse with boiled water. The chemical reaction between these two helps to dislodge the blockages.
2. Plunger: If the baking soda-vinegar solution doesn’t work, you might want to try using a plunger. Ensure that the cup of the plunger fully covers the drain opening and apply forceful plunges to clear the clog.
3. Plumber’s Snake: This is practically a long metal coil which can “snake” its way through the pipes, hence its name. By turning the handle, you can drive it further into the blockage, and then pull back to dislodge or break up the obstruction.
4. Chemical Drain Cleaners: These can be found in most local stores. However, it is important to handle them with care due to their caustic nature and they should be used as a last resort. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these cleaners.
5. High-Pressure Water Jets: Hiring a plumbing service to use a high-pressure water jet can be a very effective solution. The jet stream of water is so powerful that it blocked drains fareham could blast away the blockage quickly.
6. Professional Drainage Company: If all else fails, hiring a professional drainage company in Fareham is the best solution. They are fully equipped and experienced to deal with stubborn blocked drains.
Preventing Future Drain Blockages
Prevention is always better than a cure. Once your drains are clear, it is essential to ensure they stay that way. Here are a few preventive measures:
– Be careful about what you wash down your drains. Dispose of oils and grease in the garbage rather than the sink.
– Install drain strainers to catch hair and soap scum.
– Regularly pour boiling water down the drains to dislodge buildup.
– Keep tree roots at bay by limiting the number of trees and shrubs near your pipeline.
Although it may feel a bit daunting to resolve a blocked drain issue, it is achievable with a bit of patience. Some solutions can handle small blockages and are easy to implement. However, if you are dealing with a significant blocked drain or have recurrent issues, it is always best to get the help of a professional. Utilizing experienced professional service provides an effective, long-lasting solution and also ensures that unnecessary damage isn’t inflicted on the drainage system. Happy plumbing!