Blocked drains are one of those home emergencies that can cause immense stress and discomfort if not dealt properly. They can cause unpleasant smells, slow drainage, and in severe cases, can lead to water or sewage backing up into your home. While many homeowners in Oxford try their DIY methods to unblock their drains, often these problems require the expertise of professionals to competently eliminate. However, the good news is that multiple blocked drain incidents can be prevented by following the right steps.
The Oxford drain professionals share vital tips to help you prevent these troubles from occurring in the first place. Let’s delve into the advice from these experts.
One of the primary tips from experts is to be mindful of what goes down your drain. Fat, oil, and grease, fondly known as FOG, are the enemies of drains. They might go down in a liquid state but cool down and solidify, eventually clogging your drains. Avoid pouring FOG down your drain. Instead, let it cool, then dispose of it in your compost bin or trash.
Similarly, food waste, like blocked drains oxford leftover food, vegetable peels, and coffee grounds, should never go down your drains. Make a habit of scraping food waste into the bin rather than the sink. Large and insoluble items like diapers, sanitary pads, or baby wipes should not be flushed down the toilet. These items do not break down easily and can block your drains, causing significant plumbing problems.
Regularly clearing your sinks, showers, and tubs also help in preventing blockages. Hair and soap scum are common perpetrators for blocked bathroom drains. Installing drain guards to catch hair or any small bits and pieces can prevent these from going down the drain and forming a block.
An often overlooked area is your home’s exterior drains. Fallen leaves, debris, or dirt can build up in your outdoor drains. Regularly clearing this and ensuring free flow can save you from a plethora of drainage hassles.
Highly efficient for drain health is the use of enzyme-containing drain cleaners. Unlike chemical cleaners that can cause pipe corrosion, enzyme-based cleaners are more gentle and equally effective. They eat away at the organic matter in your pipes, keeping them clear.
Seasoned Oxford professionals recommend regular professional drain cleaning as a preventive measure against blocked drains. While DIY methods like plungers and drain snakes might serve for small blockages, they may not be effective for stubborn or deep-set blockages. Regular professional inspection and cleaning ensure that any small issues are detected before they become costly problems.
Moreover, it is a smart move to learn about your home’s plumbing structure, specifically where the clean-out plugs are located. These plugs allow direct access to your drains and can be opened to clear out blockages. Knowing their location can save time during a drain emergency.
Finally, spotting the signs of a blocked drain early can prevent a full blockage. These signs could include slow water drainage, gurgling noises from drains, and unpleasant odors. If you notice any of these signs, get a professional to check it out.
To sum up, preventing blocked drains is not a complicated task. It mainly involves careful habits and regular maintenance. Being proactive and incorporating these tips from the Oxford professionals can go a long way in keeping your drains running smoothly and your home stress-free. Remember, expert help is just a call away in case of any persistent or serious drain issues.