Blocked drains can be a severe problem for any homeowner in Croydon, leading to water backing up, foul smells, and potentially significant water damage. The good news is that most blocked drains can be prevented with proactive habits and regular maintenance. Here are some practical steps to prevent future blocked drains in your Croydon home.
1. Be mindful of what you put down your drains.
It’s really tempting to just throw anything down the drain or flush it down the toilet, but this is one of the leading causes of blockages. Don’t pour fats, oils or grease down the sink, as these substances can solidify and cause a blockage. Similarly, avoid putting food waste down the sink. Even if you have a garbage disposal unit, certain foods, like rice and pasta, can still stick to the pipes and cause a blockage. Try to blocked drains croydon scrape off as much food waste as possible into your garbage before washing dishes or utensils.
2. Regularly clean your drains.
It’s not the most pleasant task, but cleaning your drains on a regular basis can help prevent blockages. Use a mixture of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda to break down any fats or grease in your sinks. This trick is also effective for your bathtub; hair and soap scum can quickly lead to blockages, so regular cleaning is essential.
3. Add drain guards.
Drain guards or strainers can be a lifesaver when it comes to preventing blocked drains. They trap solid debris, such as food, hair and soap scum, so they can’t go down your drains. They’re cheap, easy to install and available in various sizes to fit all your drains.
4. Provide regular checks and maintenance.
Make a habit of checking your pipes for small leaks or slow drainage. This could be a sign of a potential blockage forming. Catching these issues early can save you from a serious blockage in the future. Also, consider engaging a professional plumber for an annual drain inspection to spot any potential problems before they escalate.
5. Be cautious with your toilet.
Toilets are not garbage cans. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed. Other items, such as wet wipes, cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products and paper towels, don’t break down in water and should never be flushed.
6. Educate your household.
Everyone in your household should understand what can and cannot go down the drains and toilets. Educate them about the correct ways to dispose of fats, oils, grease and food waste. Make sure they understand the importance of this to prevent future blocked drains.
7. Use enzyme-based drain cleaners.
Chemical drain cleaners can corrode your pipes over time, leading to leaks and more blockages. Instead, consider using enzyme-based cleaners, which use natural bacteria to break down blockages without damaging your pipes.
8. Keep outdoor drains clear.
If you have outdoor drains, ensure that they’re free from leaves, twigs and trash that could cause a blockage. Consider installing leaf guards or grates on these drains for extra protection.
9. Consider professional drain cleaning.
For stubborn or recurring blockages, it might be wise to call in a professional. Drain cleaning services are equipped with the expertise and tools to thoroughly clean your drains without causing any damage.
By adopting these simple habits, you can keep your home in Croydon free from the nuisance of blocked drains. Prevention is always better – and cheaper – than a cure, so implement these steps today for a hassle-free drainage system.