Blocked drains are a common household problem that can cause a significant amount of inconvenience, as well as potential damage to your home. They can result in foul smells, slow drainage, and even flooding. These problems can be avoided with regular maintenance and precautions. This article will provide practical maintenance tips for Reading houses to prevent blocked drains.
First, let’s understand the common causes of blockages. Drains tend to get blocked by substances that don’t easily break down, such as fat, oil, food waste, hair, sanitary products, and other solid objects. The accumulation of these materials over time can lead to a complete blockage. In Reading, where many homes are characterised by their charming, yet mature architecture, there is also a heightened risk of blockages due to pipe age and deterioration.
Here are a few maintenance tips that can be implemented in Reading houses to avoid the blockage problem:
1. Dispose of Waste Properly: The first and most important tip is to be careful about what you dispose of in your drains. Never pour fat and grease down the sink as it can cool and solidify, blocking your drain. Dispose of food waste and coffee grounds in the compost bin rather than the sink. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.
2. Be Mindful of the Bathroom Drains: Bathrooms are a common place for drain blockage. To prevent this, consider using a drain guard to catch hair and soap residue in the shower or bathtub. Additionally, regular cleaning of the stoppers can aid in preventing the buildup of soap scum and hair.
3. Regularly Clean your Drains: It’s crucial to clean your pipes regularly to prevent the build-up of substances that can cause blockages. This can be achieved by repeatedly pouring boiling water down the drains, which can help disintegrate any potential blockages. Baking soda or vinegar followed by hot water can also make for an effective homemade cleaning solution.
4. Maintenance of External Drains: External drains can often be overlooked, but they are just as important in preventing issues in the home. Make sure they are kept clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris. Regularly checking these areas, particularly following bad weather, can save a great deal of trouble in the long run.
5. Plumbing Inspection: Regularly scheduling a professional plumbing inspection helps to identify any potential issues before they become problematic. It can pick up on blocked drains reading damage or wear to pipes that may eventually lead to blockages or leaks in the future.
6. Know your Main Valve: In the case of a severe blockage, it may be necessary to cut off the water supply until the issue is resolved. Knowing the location of your main water valve and how to shut it off can prevent further damage and potentially save on costly repairs.
7. Drain Maintenance Products: There are numerous products on the market that can assist with regular drain maintenance. Using these products as part of your regular cleaning routine can help to keep your pipes clear and free-flowing.
By implementing these maintenance tips, Reading homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing blocked drains. It is important to treat your plumbing system with care and engage in preventative measures. But remember, if you do experience a severe blockage, it’s always best to call on the services of professional plumbers to solve the problem thoroughly and prevent long-term damage.