Blocked drains are a common occurrence in every household in Exeter, bringing with them a multitude of problems like water damage, foul smell, and unsightly residues. However, there isn’t always a need for professional intervention as long as you’re willing to get your hands a little dirty. Here are some essential tips for dealing with blocked drains in Exeter.
1. Prevention is better than Cure
Firstly, the best way to avoid blocked drains is through preventative measures. Avoid flushing items such as sanitary products, wipes, and cooking oils down the drain which can solidify and cause blockages. Similarly, ensuring that only small amounts of food waste goes into your kitchen drain can help to prevent blockages. Always clear plates into a waste bin before washing up to reduce the amount of food going down the drain.
2. Use Boiling Water for Simple Clogs
For situations where the drain experienced minor clogging, simple tips like flushing your drain with boiling water can be helpful. This hot flush can dissolve or loosen simple blockages such as soap or grease that has built up in the pipes. However, it’s important to remember that boiling water is not suitable for PVC pipes as it could warp them.
3. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
An eco-friendly solution to unclog drains involves the use of household items like baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to break down the blockage, and then rinse it down with hot water.
4. Use a Plunger
For more serious blockages, a plunger can be a handy tool to use. The suction created by the plunger can help to dislodge the blockage and blocked drains exeter clear the drain. Make sure you have a good seal around the plunger and use a series of both slow and quick plunges to loosen the blockage.
5. Use a Plumber’s Snake
If the plunger isn’t the solution, you might want to try a plumber’s snake. This device is flexible and can reach deeper into your pipes to remove the blockage causing material. By turning the snake’s handle, you can break up the clog into smaller pieces, which you can then flush away with water.
6. Regularly Clean your Drains
Regular maintenance can prevent any blockages before they become unmanageable. This might involve removing the stopper from your sink or shower drain and removing any debris that has built up. This is something that can be done weekly or fortnightly, depending on how heavily the drain is used.
7. Call in the Professionals
While these DIY tips can solve simple drainage problems, some cases require the expertise of professional drainage companies, especially for stubborn or recurring blockages. Do not hesitate to contact professionals in Exeter if you’ve tried the steps above and your drain remains blocked.
Blocked drains may seem like a minor issue but, if not addressed promptly, can result in significant damage. It’s essential always to be on the lookout for signs of a blocked drain such as slow water drainage, gurgling noises from your drain, or a foul smell emanating from it. By taking preventative measures and acting quickly when a blockage does occur, you can help keep your home’s plumbing in top condition.
In conclusion, while dealing with blocked drains in Exeter can be difficult, these tips can prove helpful and save a lot of time, money, and stress. However, when the need arises, don’t postpone calling for professional help. The advantage of professionals lies in their broad knowledge and specific skills, enabling them to accurately diagnose and effectively remedy your drainage problem.