Blocked drains can cause significant inconvenience, such as water overflow, foul odours, and potential structural damage. If you’re a resident of Exeter struggling with such issues, there’s no need to worry. With proper knowledge and care, you can prevent and handle blocked drains effectively.
Preventing Blocked Drains
Prevention is always better than cure — this adage blocked drains exeter is particularly true when it comes to blocked drains. Below are some easy tips to prevent drain blockages in your Exeter property.
1. Be careful about what goes down the drain: This is the simplest yet most important step to prevent blockages. Do not dispose of items like excess food waste, hair, grease, baby wipes, cotton balls, paper towels, and sanitary products in your drains. These items are slow to degrade and can get stuck in the pipes, leading to blockages.
2. Install drain screens: A drain screen can effectively catch hair, soap scum, and other debris, preventing it from going down the drain. This is a practical solution especially for bathroom and kitchen sinks.
3. Regular maintenance: Regularly pour hot water down the drain to break down and flush away any potential blockages. You can also use a drain snake or a plunger to remove simple clogs.
Handling Blocked Drains
Despite your best efforts to prevent them, drain blockages can still occur. The key is to act fast so that the issue doesn’t escalate. Here’s how to handle blocked drains in Exeter properties.
1. Use a Plunger: A plunger forms a seal around the drain and uses suction to dislodge the blockage. This is usually the first method to consider as it is quick, simple, and works well for simple blockages.
2. Use a Drain Snake: This is a bit more hands-on than a plunger and can handle tougher blockages. The snake is pushed down the drain and then turned clockwise to break up the clog.
3. Try a Homemade Solution: Before resorting to harsh chemical cleaners, try a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar. This combination can often break down clogs without harming your pipes.
4. Contact a Professional: If all else fails, it may be time to call in experts, like a licensed plumber in Exeter. These professionals have the right skills and tools to effectively and efficiently deal with complex blockages. They can also perform a thorough drain survey to detect underlying issues.
In conclusion, taking preventable measures, being mindful of what goes down your drains, and dealing with blockages promptly is key to maintaining free-flowing drains in your Exeter home. When the going gets tough, remember, you can always call upon a local Exeter plumber for a professional solution to your drain issues.