As a resident of Croydon, it’s crucial to know how to avoid blocked drains – not just to prevent potential flooding and water damage but also to ensure the health and well-being of its inhabitants. Regular drainage maintenance can avoid the discomfort, inconvenience, and costly repairs that major blockages can cause. Here are some useful tips to help you maintain your drains and avoid blockages in Croydon.
1. Dispose of Grease Correctly
One of the major causes of blocked drains is improperly disposed grease. It’s not just a common problem in commercial kitchens, but home kitchens suffer from this as well. Pouring hot fat or grease down sinks is a widely practised mistake that can lead to serious drainage issues. Rather than dumping grease, fats, or oils down the sink, allow them to cool and solidify before putting them in the bin.
2. Install Drain Guards
Installing drain guards over your sinks and bathtub drains is an effective way to prevent unwanted materials from going down. The guards catch food bits, soap scum, hair and other substances that cause blockages, allowing easy disposal into the trash. It’s a simple and affordable solution to prevent major drain issues.
3. Regularly Clean your Drains
Household drains do not need heavy-duty cleaning methods. Regular cleaning using warm water, baking blocked drains croydon soda and vinegar proves effective in keeping them in good working order. Pour half a cup of baking soda into your drain followed by an equal amount of white vinegar. After 20 minutes, rinse with boiling water. This routine method can eliminate debris build-up and prevent blockage.
4. Dispose of Waste Properly
Proper waste disposal is important. Do not throw non-dissolvable cleaners, wet wipes, paper towels or sanitary products down the toilet. These materials do not break down easily and can lead to significant blockages. Also, teach children not to throw toys or other objects into the toilet.
5. Regular Professional Inspection
Getting a professional to inspect your drains on a regular basis is another excellent way to prevent blockages. Professionals have the right tools and expertise to identify issues before they become severe problems. Regular inspection can save you from costly repairs in the future. In Croydon, it’s easy to find experienced plumbers who can conduct a thorough inspection of your drains.
6. Be Mindful of Plants and Trees
Root intrusion into your drain pipes can cause substantial damage and blockages. If you have trees and plants near your property, ensure their roots are not threatening your drainage system. Regular checks and suitable placement of plantings can prevent this issue.
7. Refrain from using Chemical Cleaners
Although it may be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners, this should be avoided. They can corrode pipes over time, leading to leaks and possibly more serious issues. Opt for natural methods or use enzyme-based drain cleaners that are safer for your drains and the environment.
By vigilantly implementing these tips, you can effectively prevent drainage blockages, promoting the efficient functioning of your plumbing system. Knowing how to maintain your drains will offer you peace of mind, safeguarding your home from the inconvenience, and costly repairs that blocked drains could cause.
Remember, prevention is the best solution when it comes to drainage issues. But, if you do find yourself with a blocked drain in Croydon, don’t hesitate to call for professional help to avoid further complications. With these tips, your drains can continue to offer trouble-free service for years to come.