Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems faced by homeowners. If not handled quickly, they can lead to costly repair jobs. Blocked drains usually result from a build up of solid materials that don’t allow water to flow down the drain.
Prevention is always better than a cure, so here are some smart tips to help you avoid getting a blocked drain:
Prevent Fats and Oils from Accumulating
Fats, Oils and Grease (FOGG) are the main culprit in kitchen drain blockages. When poured down the drain, FOGG solidifies as it enters the wastewater system and sticks to pipe walls creating layers that restrict or completely block sanitary sewer flow. This buildup results in wastewater backups into homes, businesses and on private property as well as wastewater overflows onto streets and local surface waters.
To minimize your exposure to FOG, never pour cooking oils or grease down the drain and wipe dishes, pots, pans and utensils with a disposable paper towel before washing. Pour used cooking oil and grease into an empty tin can or jar for disposal.
Nonpolar greases like animal and vegetable fats, sauces, gravies and salad dressings as well as lubricating products are the most common FOGG dumped down drains from restaurants and homes. The more frequent these substances are disposed of improperly, the greater the impact on wastewater treatment systems.
Keep Your Drains Clean
Most homeowners have had to deal with a blocked drain at some point. Aside from being inconvenient, clogged drains can cause water and waste to backup into your home, posing a serious health risk.
Often, a blocked drain develops due to solid particles building up inside your pipes over time. It is important to watch what goes down your drains and ensure that only sewage, liquids, and food scraps are flushed down the pipes.
Many common kitchen drain clogs are caused by excess fat, oil and grease. To help prevent this, it is recommended to wipe up any excess cooking oil into a container for disposal instead of down the drain.
Regularly cleaning your bathroom drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or enzyme-based cleaner can also help reduce the chance of build up. It is also recommended to install a drain strainer in your kitchen and bathroom to help catch any hair, coffee grounds or non-flushable items.
Regularly Flush Your Drains
A drain can become blocked if solid materials collect inside and obstruct the flow of water. Thankfully, it’s relatively easy to prevent blockages from occurring in the first place by following a few simple strategies.
Pouring hot (but not boiling) water down the drain each week helps to break up any solidified waste and keeps your drains working well. Similarly, a weekly treatment of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar can help to keep your drains free from hair buildup and soap residue.
It’s also worth keeping an eye out for any signs of a blocked drain, such as slow draining water or gurgling noises. These are early warning signs that you could have a blocked drain problem that will only get worse if left untreated. Taking proactive measures will save you stress, money and possibly damage to your property in the long run. If you notice any of these symptoms, call a plumber as soon as possible to ensure your pipes are clear.
Contact a Plumber
Clogged drains are caused by solid and semi-solid materials that build up over time. By being cautious about what goes down your pipes, using a plunger (specifically designed for sinks and toilets), and having your home sewer line regularly checked by a plumber, you can prevent these issues from occurring.
A clogged bathroom drain can be due to soap scum or hair, and can often be resolved with a combination of baking soda and vinegar or hot water. Kitchen drain blockages are usually caused by food waste, which can be prevented by scraping plates and utensils into the garbage disposal or by running the sink after every use to clear away any remaining food particles. Repeat drain blockages or multiple clogged sewage drains can be a warning sign of an issue with your home sewer line, and should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs. A professional plumber will help and sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ will provide you with a lot of information.