Understanding Blocked Drains: Causes, Solutions, and When to Call the Experts
Blocked drains can be a frustrating and inconvenient issue for homeowners and renters alike. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely clogged toilet, understanding why these blockages occur and how to clear them can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of blocked drains, effective methods for clearing them, and when it’s time to call in the professionals.
Why Do Blocked Drains Occur?
Blocked drains can happen for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common culprits:
1. Accumulation of Hair and Soap Scum
In bathrooms, hair is a frequent blocker. Combined with soap scum, it creates a thick sludge that can easily clog pipes over time.
2. Food Debris
In kitchens, food particles can accumulate in the drain, especially if you frequently wash grease, coffee grounds, or fibrous vegetables down the sink.
3. Tree Roots
Outdoors, tree roots can invade underground pipes, leading to significant blockages. This often happens when roots seek out moisture, causing them to grow into the cracks of old pipes.
4. Foreign Objects
Sometimes, items that shouldn’t be flushed or washed down the drain—like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or toys—can cause blockages.
5. Grease Buildup
Pouring grease down the drain is a common mistake. As it cools, grease solidifies and sticks to the pipes, eventually leading to a blockage.
Signs of Drain Issues
Keep an eye out for these warning signs that may indicate you have a blockage or a broken drain:
Slow draining sinks or showers
Unpleasant smells coming from drains
Gurgling sounds when using water fixtures
Water pooling around your property
If you encounter any of these issues, it’s vital to act promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Repair Solutions We Offer
At Jason Brown Plumbing & Gas we specialise in diagnosing and fixing drain blockages and breaks promptly. Here’s what we can do for you:
CCTV Drain Inspections: Using state-of-the-art cameras, we can conduct thorough inspections of your drains to identify blockages, cracks, or root intrusions without invasive digging.
High-Pressure Water Jetting: This method uses powerful jets of water to effectively clear out grease, debris, and any other blockages in your pipes, restoring proper drainage.
Drain Repairs and Relining: If we discover damaged or broken pipes, we offer repair services that can involve repairing the drain in the affected areas or replacing the complete drain or employing a relining method that creates a new, durable inner layer within existing pipes — all without major excavation.
Preventive Maintenance: To keep your drains running smoothly, we recommend regular maintenance checks to catch potential issues before they become major headaches.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can be a hassle, but with our expertise, you can restore the flow and functionality of your plumbing system swiftly. If you suspect a blockage or break in your drainage system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. We’re here to solve any drainage issues you may have and keep them flowing as they should be.
