Blocked drains can be a major inconvenience for homeowners and businesses alike. Not only do they cause unpleasant odours and unsanitary conditions, but they can also lead to costly repairs if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for clearing blocked drains, and with the right approach, you can have your drains flowing freely in no time.
Identifying the cause of the blockage
The first step in clearing a blocked drain is to identify the cause of the blockage. Common causes include a buildup of hair and soap scum, food particles, and foreign objects such as toys or jewellery. In some cases, tree roots may have grown into the pipes, causing a blockage.
To determine the cause of the blockage, you can use a plumbing snake, which is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up the blockage. You can also use a plumbing camera, which is a small camera that is inserted into the drain to visually inspect the pipes and locate the blockage.
Clearing the blockage
Once you have identified the cause of the blockage, you can take steps to clear it. One common method is to use a plunger, which can be used to break up the blockage and push it out of the pipes. Another method is to use a chemical drain cleaner, which can break up the blockage and clear the pipes.
In some cases, the blockage may be too severe for these methods to be effective. In these cases, you may need to call a professional plumber to clear the blockage using specialised tools and equipment.
Common causes of blocked drains and remedies
Hair and soap scum buildup
One of the most common causes of blocked drains is hair and soap scum buildup. This occurs when hair and soap particles collect in the pipes and form a blockage. The best solution for this type of blockage is to use a plumbing snake or a plunger to break up and remove the blockage. You can also use a chemical drain cleaner to dissolve the blockage, but it is important to use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products.
Food particles
Another common cause of blocked drains is food particles. This occurs when food scraps and grease collect in the pipes and form a blockage. You can usually tell if your drain is blocked with food particles by the odour. The best solution for this type of blockage is to avoid flushing food scraps and grease down the drain and to use a plunger or a plumbing snake to remove the blockage.
Foreign objects
Foreign objects such as toys or jewellery can also cause blocked drains. The best solution for this type of blockage is to use a plumbing snake or a plumbing camera to locate and remove the foreign object. If the object is too deep in the pipes to be removed, a professional plumber may need to be called to remove it using specialised tools.
Tree roots
In some cases, tree roots can cause blocked drains. This occurs when the roots of a tree grow into the pipes and form a blockage. The best solution for this type of blockage is to call a professional plumber, who will be able to remove the roots and repair any damage to the pipes.
In all these cases PR Plumbing and Drainage is the best choice for your Blocked Drain needs. We have the expertise and the equipment to effectively clear blocked drains.
Preventing future blockages
To prevent future blockages, it is important to take steps to maintain your pipes and drains. This includes regularly cleaning and inspecting your pipes, using strainers in your sinks and bathtubs to catch hair and debris, and avoiding flushing foreign objects down the toilet.
Additionally, you should schedule regular drain cleaning and maintenance with a professional plumber to ensure that your pipes and drains are in good working condition.
Blocked drains can be a major headache for homeowners and businesses, but with the right approach, you can quickly and effectively clear them. By identifying the cause of the blockage, taking steps to clear it, and preventing future blockages, you can keep your pipes and drains flowing freely.