Understanding the Common Causes of Blocked Drains in Plymouth
A well-functioning drainage system is indispensable in every Plymouth home. It ensures the smooth flow of waste and water out of your property, providing optimum sanitation and hygiene. However, at some point, every household faces the troublesome issue of blocked drains. To avoid such situations or deal with them effectively if they occur, one needs to understand the root cause. This article provides a detailed overview of the common causes of blocked drains in Plymouth.
1. Fat and Grease:
One of the most common culprits that cause drain blockages in Plymouth is fat and grease. Often, while washing dishes and pans, the fat and grease inadvertently find their way down the sink. Over time, these substances cool down, harden and stick to the inner walls of the drains, causing blockage. The key to avoiding this type of clog is proper waste disposal, i.e., refraining from allowing fats and grease to enter your drainage system.
2. Hair:
Accumulation of hair in the drains is another frequent cause of blocked drains. Hair strands flowing down with the water tend to accumulate in the pipelines over time. They bind with grease and other sticky substances to form clogs, causing slow draining water or, worse, blocked drains. The installation of drain guards blocked drains plymouth to catch hair and regular cleaning are necessary preventative measures.
3. Foreign Objects:
Another common cause of blocked drains, especially in homes with kids, is due to the flushing of foreign objects down the toilet. Toys, diapers, female hygiene products and wet wipes are not meant to be flushed and can quickly cause a drain to block. Educating every member of the family about what can and cannot be flushed down can prevent such blockages in the future.
4. Tree Roots:
The problem of blocked drains due to tree roots is quite common in Plymouth, especially in houses with gardens or where the property is adjacent to public open spaces. Tree roots are naturally attracted to the warmth, moisture and nutrients found within sewer lines. Once inside, they can grow and multiply rapidly, thereby obstructing the flow of water and eventually leading to blocked drains. Regular pipeline inspections and root cutting services can help to keep this problem at bay.
5. Collapsed Pipes:
A less frequent, but more serious cause of blocked drains, is collapsed pipes. This is commonly seen in old Plymouth buildings where the piping system is potentially outdated and weak. The drains become blocked when the pipes cannot sustain the soil pressure, resulting in cracks or a complete collapse. Such scenarios require immediate professional attention due to the severity of damage and potential health risks.
In conclusion, a blocked drain is a common yet preventable issue in Plymouth. Understanding the main causes allows homeowners to enact preventative measures, from correct waste disposal to regular pipe inspections, reducing the damage to property and disruption to everyday life. Should a block occur, professional drainage services are readily available to provide skilled and speedy solutions.