Living in Reading and having to constantly deal with blocked drains can be quite frustrating. It is a common issue that most households face. Dealing with blocked drains is not only unpleasant, it also leads to inconveniences such as water standing in the sink, foul smell, and even water backing up. There are, however, ways to mitigate or prevent the need for drain unblocking in Reading.
First and foremost, it is important to understand what causes blocked drains. The main culprits are food debris, hair, soap particles and grease for kitchen and bathroom drains, whereas for outdoor ones, leaves, trees roots, and other garden debris play a significant role. Let’s delve into methods of preventing blockages.
**Keep a check on what goes down the drain**
One of the most crucial steps in preventing blocked drains is by controlling and being mindful of what goes down the drain. Never use your toilet as a waste bin. Items such as sanitary products, wipes, paper towels and diapers should never be flushed down, no matter how degradable their manufacturers claim them to be. In the kitchen, refrain from throwing food leftovers or oils down the sink. These can harden and cling to the insides of the pipes causing obstructions.
**Regular Cleaning**
Regularly, cleaning your drains can go a long way in preventing a major blockage. A simple step of running hot water through the drains once a week can help to clear out debris that has started to build up. Chemicals or vinegar and baking soda can be used occasionally to help break down stubborn particles. However, do not heavily rely on chemicals as they can erode your drainage system over time.
**Drain Guards and Strainers**
Drain guards and strainers are inexpensive yet effective tools that can greatly reduce the chances of a blockage. By placing a guard / strainer over the plughole, you can catch the larger particles and debris before they enter your drainage system. This can be particularly helpful in the kitchen, where the risk of food particles and other items entering the drain is high.
**Regularly Check Plumbing Vents**
Your home’s vent system, which helps regulate the air pressure within your pipes is essential for water to flow smoothly. If vents are blocked, it can lead to slow drainage, which ultimately might result in blocked pipes. Regularly inspect these vents and remove any debris that might be obstructing them.
**Pipelining**
If your property is older and often subject to blocked drains, pipelining might be a worthy consideration. This involves inserting a new pipe inside your existing one, reducing the likelihood of tree roots infiltrating the drain and causing a block.
**Professional Maintenance**
Finally, if your home drainage system is complex or you are unable to handle it yourself, consider investing in professional maintenance services. These services typically include a thorough check and clean of your drains. Professionals inspect your drains using CCTV technology, efficiently remove any build-ups and can advise on preventative measures.
Drain blockages can cause many unnecessary headaches, and implementing these steps can significantly reduce the chances of it happening. Prevention is undoubtedly better, and in most cases, cheaper than cure when it comes to keeping your drains in Reading drain unblocking reading flowing freely.
Nevertheless, if you do encounter a serious blockage, do ensure to get professional help promptly. Ignoring or delaying can lead to major problems including sewage back-up, pipe bursts or even structural damage to the property over time.