Prevention is better than cure when it comes to blocked drains. Given the type of problems we get called out to fix, it also seems that there is some confusion around what can and can’t be washed down your drain. Without regular drain maintenance and cleaning, your pipes can end up blocked, causing all sorts of problems (and money!).
What can you do to avoid your drains blocking?
Don’t wash food down the drain!
- Use a drain strainer to trap large particles before they block your pipes.
Don’t wash grease and oil down the drain!
- Clear grease and oil from kitchen pans with paper towel and dispose of in your rubbish bin rather than washing it down the sink.
- Make sure your washing up water is as hot as possible to break down greasy and oily products.
Hair belongs in the bin – not down the drain!
- Avoid washing hair or excess products down the drain in the bathroom.
What are the consequences of blocked drains?
- Flooding, leakage and water damage
- The persistent bad smell of trapped decaying food
- Backed up pipes
- Stagnant water with a musty smell
The longer you leave it, the more work there will be needed to clear the blockage, and the more likely it is that you’ll need to call out a plumber. It’s actually a money-saver to make sure you clean your drains regularly.
Are you already noticing some of the above consequences, like your sink taking longer to drain, water pooling around your feet in the shower, or unpleasant smells wafting around your home? Click here for steps to take to try and unblock your drain.