Drainage problems are one of the more persistent headaches homeowners in Bracknell face. If not properly taken care of, blocked drains can cause a whole lot of issues such as foul odours, sewage backup, and even structural damage to your property. Therefore, learning how to prevent and clear blocked drains in your Bracknell home is definitely essential.
To begin with, let’s discuss the preventative measures you can adopt to avoid blocked drains.
1. Avoid Discarding Grease Down the Sink: Grease is one of the main causes of blocked kitchen sinks. It sticks to the pipe walls and traps other waste materials eventually causing a blockage. Check with your local authorities for proper grease disposal methods in your area.
2. Hair Screens Can Be a Savior: A common cause for blocked shower drains is the accumulation of hair. Using a hair screen over your shower drain can help in trapping hair before it gets washed down the drain.
3. Be Careful with What Goes Down the Toilet: A toilet isn’t a trash can. Discarding items like diapers, wipes, feminine products, or any plastic items in your toilet can lead to blockages in the sewer line. Make sure to only flush toilet paper and natural waste.
4. Regularly Clean Your Drains: Incorporate regular drain cleaning in your home maintenance schedule. Using a drain snake or a high-pressure water jet can help in keeping your drains clean.
5. Use Bacterial Drain Cleaners: Using chemical drain cleaners should be the last resort as they can harm your pipes. Instead, opt for bacterial drain cleaners that are non-corrosive and can break down organic waste materials.
While prevention is the best solution, sometimes, however, a blockage can occur blocked drains bracknell unexpectedly. Here are some tips on how to clear a blocked drain:
1. Plunge Away the Block: A plunger can be an effective tool for clearing blockages in toilets and sinks. Make sure to have a good seal to create suction.
2. Snake It Out: A plumber’s snake or a hand auger can break up the blockage and pull out debris. Always remember to turn the handle clockwise for the best results.
3. Use a Drain Cleaner: As discussed above, go for a bacterial drain cleaner when dealing with clogs.
4. Call a Professional: If you’ve tried the above methods and the blockage persists, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. Ensure they are certified and offer a guarantee for their service.
Blocked drains can cause significant disruption and frustration in your daily life. However, with these tips, you can effectively prevent blocked drains and clear them, should the need arise. Always remember that a small effort today can save you from a major issue tomorrow. So, make sure to include regular drain checks, cleaning, and maintenance in your home care schedule. When in doubt, call a professional. It’s always better to entrust a serious drainage issue to a professional plumber, lest DIY attempts exacerbate the issue or lead to costlier repairs down the line. Let your Bracknell home be a haven of comfort, not a den of plumbing issues. Taking proper care to prevent and clear blocked drains is a major step in this direction.