If you’re living with blocked drains, it can be a hassle and difficult to know what to do as a home DIYer. Clogged drains are caused by too much material going down the drain and building up over time, blocking water from passing through. In this article we will provide some tips on how to unblock your drains and provide maimore information on how to keep them clear.
What Causes Blocked Drains?
In bathrooms, sinks and showers, soap scum, hair and other debris build up in the pipes and create blockages which prevent the water from passing freely. Kitchens also famously get clogged due to grease, fat and food scraps making their way into the pipes. All these problems can lead to overflowing drains, bad smells and slow draining water.
DIY Solutions for Unblocking Drains
The first step is to identify the location of the blockage. If it’s a sink or shower, check around the floor of the area and feel for any warm spots which could indicate a blockage. For kitchen sinks, check underneath the sink and feel with your hands. Once identified, there are a few DIY solutions you can try to clear the blockage:
- Boiling Water – Boiling water can be poured down the pipes and help shift the debris.
- Baking Soda & Vinegar – Mixing baking soda with vinegar makes an effective foam which can kill bacteria and help push the blockage away.
- Plunger – Plunging can help shift stubborn blockages and occasionally dislodge them.
- Manual Removal – Snakes and augers are flexible tools which you can use to manually dislodge the blockage.
If none of the above work, it may be worth considering hiring a professional plumber to come and take a look at the problem. Professional plumbers will have access to more powerful equipment such as hydro-jet machines which can blast apart debris and allow the water to pass freely again.
Preventing Blockages from Occurring Again
Once all blockages have been cleared, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from occurring again. In the bathroom, install mesh or hair traps over the drains to filter out any objects before they enter the drain. You should also consider using environmentally friendly cleaning products, as chemical alternatives can damage your pipes over time and lead to blockages.
Maintenance Tips and Advice
One of the best things you can do to avoid blockages is to give your drains regular maintenance. Cleaning out your drains every 2-3 months can help to remove any debris that has built up to stop them getting blocked in the first place.
You can also flush your drains with hot water every couple of months to help create a barrier between the piping and the waste material, allowing the free flow of water and keeping the pipes clean.
When it Comes to Blocked Drains, Prevention is Key
Blocked drains are a nuisance, but taking the steps outlined above can save you the hassle of dealing with them. Investigate what’s causing the blockages, use DIY techniques and professionals if needed, and undertake regular maintenance to ensure your drains are always flowing effectively. For more information, speak to a qualified and licensed plumber.