Living in the beautiful area of Sevenoaks certainly does have its perks – but dealing with blocked drains is not one of those. As one of the most widely-occurring and yet most misunderstood household problems, blocked drains can cause considerable stress and inconvenience. For those who are not experts in plumbing, a layman if you may, understanding blocked drains can be a daunting task. So, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you comprehend and possibly tackle this issue before calling in professional help.
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand what causes blocked drains. In most cases, the culprits are foreign objects or debris like hair, soap, food waste, toilet paper, and grease that slowly accumulate over time and form obstructions in your drains. These blockages may hinder the flow of waste, resulting in slow draining of water or a complete halt. In Sevenoaks, where a good part of the plumbing is antique, tree roots penetrating the drain pipes causing damage can also be a frequent cause for blockages.
Secondly, identifying a blocked drain early on can save a lot of time, money, and disruption. Here are some signs that might suggest a blockage. A slow-draining sink is a common indication. If your toilets, showers, or sinks are draining slower than usual, this could herald a blockage. Additionally, unusual or foul smells emanating from your drains could be a sign of something trapped and rotting inside. Regularly inspecting these signs will allow you to be on top of the issue before it escalates.
Gurgling sounds from your drains, pipes, or plumbing fixtures are another indication. This is caused by the air being trapped in the drains and then rising to the surface. Also, if you notice an increase in the water level in your toilet (higher than usual), this can signify a block in the main drain. Refrain from flushing the toilet multiple times as it might cause the toilet to overflow and aggravate the problem.
Now, let’s get to the point of how you can attempt to unblock drains yourself. However, it’s important to note that not all blockages can or should be addressed without professional help. Some plumbing problems may require advanced tools and expertise to rectify, and interfering without the necessary knowledge may cause further damage.
But in some cases, simple DIY steps can solve the issue. A plunger can work wonders if used correctly, it can effectively dislodge minor blockages by creating intense suction. Chemical drain cleaners can be another solution, but remember they should be used as last resorts as they can be harmful both for your pipes and the environment.
Depending on the location of the blockage, a drain snake or plumber’s auger might be effective. These tools can be used to poke, prod, and twist their way through the pipes to break up the obstruction. Alternatively, you can try a DIY homemade solution blocked drains sevenoaks such as mixing vinegar and baking soda. Pour this mixture into the blocked drain and wait around 20-30 minutes, then rinse with boiling water. Repeat the process if necessary.
However, if you are unable to see improvements in the situation or if the blockage occurs frequently, seeking a professional’s help is surely the best route. In Sevenoaks, several reliable plumbers are always ready to assist you in tackling such problems. Usually, professional plumbers are equipped with modern methods like hydro-jetting and CCTV drain surveys that can easily and quickly clear the most stubborn obstructions and even identify impending problems before they become severe.
A blocked drain is an everyday issue in many households. What’s key is to remain patient, keep an eye out for early warning signs and not default to calling a plumber immediately if it’s a minor issue. With the basics covered in this article, you’ll now have a more informed perspective when confronted with this nuisance. Finally, remember that while it’s good to understand how to tackle a blocked drain, knowing when to call a professional is just as important.