A blocked drain is a common problem and can create a lot of mess if not taken care of immediately. It is often difficult to tell when drains are blocked due to the fact that they run underground. However, it is very important to identify a blocked drain either through visual signs or strong odours. more information
Signs of a Blocked Drain
The most obvious sign of a blocked drain is a bad smell coming from the area. This smell will usually be quite unpleasant and will indicate a blockage in your pipes. Other visual signs include gurgling sounds coming from the toilet, slow drainage and water pooling around the outside area of the property. If these signs appear, then there is a high chance you have a blocked drain.
Preventative Measures
There are some easy preventative measures you can take to minimise the chances of your drains becoming blocked. Firstly, make sure to always only put food waste and biodegradable products into the waste disposal unit. This will significantly reduce the chances of items getting caught in the pipes and causing a blockage. Additionally, try to avoid pouring oils and fats down the sink as these materials can solidify over time and cause clogging. Furthermore, avoid flushing anything other than standard tissue down the toilet, this includes cotton buds, wipes and sanitary products.
DIY Solutions
If you think you may have a blocked drain but are not certain, then there are some DIY solutions you can attempt before calling out a professional. Start by running hot water down the drain as this can help to loosen any debris which has caused the blockage. You could also purchase a plunger to help dislodge the blockage, however it is important to ensure the plunger has an airtight seal so that the suction can be effective. If these methods do not work, then you should consider calling out a professional plumber.
Professional Intervention
In more serious cases where the blockage is deep within the pipes, it may be necessary to call out a professional plumber. A professional plumber will have specialised tools and knowledge to assess and clear the blockage without resulting in extensive damage to your plumbing system. Furthermore, they will also be able to identify recurring issues and provide sound advice on how to prevent further blocks.
Health & Safety Considerations
Finally, it is important to consider health and safety when dealing with a blocked drain. If attempting to unblock the drain yourself, make sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear as the water may contain harmful bacteria which can cause illness. Furthermore, depending on the severity of the blockage, toxic fumes may be present. If this is the case, then make sure to secure the area and evacuate all people in order to avoid potential harm.
Blockages can quickly cause havoc to any property and it is therefore important to know how to deal with them quickly and effectively. Hopefully, this article has provided more information on how to identify a blocked drain and how to approach resolving the issue.