Blocked drains can be an extremely inconvenient and often costly problem for homeowners in Portsmouth, and indeed anywhere. Some blockages can cause significant damage to your plumbing system and require professional assistance.
Fortunately, blocked drains are largely preventable. While professional plumbers offer drain clearance services, there are many things you can do yourself to prevent such issues from occurring in the first place.
Here are some useful tips to prevent such nightmares from happening in your Portsmouth homes:
1. Dispose of Grease and Oil Properly: Grease, fat and oils solidify when cooled and can easily clog up your drains when poured down the sink. Instead, collect these in a jar or disposable heat-resistant bag and throw them in the bin when filled.
2. Clean Your Drains Regularly: A simple but often overlooked tactic is regular cleaning of your drains. Pour a mixture of vinegar and hot water down your drains at least once a month. This solution acts as a cleaner, deodoriser, and can break down potential blockages.
3. Install Drain Grates: A drain grate or screen over the drain hole can catch large debris that might otherwise fall in and cause blockages. They’re available in different sizes to fit all drains, including your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and shower drain.
4. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Toilet: Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Other items like baby wipes, sanitary products, cotton buds, and so on, do blocked drains portsmouth not dissolve readily and can cause severe blockages.
5. Regularly Check Your Outdoor Drains and Gutters: Outdoor drains can be blocked by leaves, debris, and even tree roots. Regularly check and clean these areas especially during the autumn when leaves frequently fall. Also, consider installing gutter guards to prevent leaves and other debris from getting into your gutters and drainage system.
6. Use a Plunger: If you suspect a minor blockage, use a plunger to try and clear it. This can provide a temporary solution, though it’s best to seek professional help if the problem persists.
7. Keep an Eye on Your Water Flow: Slow water flow can be an early sign of a blockage. Reach out to a professional plumber if you notice this in your sinks, showers, or toilets.
8. Pipe maintenance. Minerals present in water can build up and cause blockages in your pipes. Installing a water softener could be a solution to keep these mineral deposits in check.
Preventative maintenance can save you from the stress and inconvenience of blocked drains. However, if a blockage does occur, it’s essential to resolve it promptly to prevent further damage.
Living in Portsmouth, you’re never far from a professional plumbing service. If you sense a persisting issue with your drains, it’s advised to seek professional assistance to ensure thorough and effective clearance.
Remember, taking the right preventive measures can save you time, money, and give you peace of mind. By following these tips, you can successfully maintain free-flowing drains in your Portsmouth home.