There’s nothing more annoying than discovering a blocked drain in your home, whether it be that your sink isn’t draining or your shower drain is clogged. Understanding what causes blocked drains is the first step in effectively addressing and preventing them - so let’s take a look!
One of the most frequent causes of blocked drains in both kitchens and bathrooms is the accumulation of debris, such as soap scum, product debris, and hair. In showers and bathtubs, hair can become entangled in the drain and trap other debris, while in kitchen sinks, food particles and soap scum can build up over time, leading to blockages.
As drainage companies in London and elsewhere in the UK will tell you, grease, fat, and food residue are major culprits when it comes to blocked drains. When washed down the sink, these substances can solidify in the pipes, gradually causing a complete blockage; this is particularly true for substances like cooking oil and coffee grounds that tend to stick to the inside of pipes.
Foreign objects, whether accidentally flushed down the toilet or dropped into a drain, can also cause significant blockages; these can include anything from children’s toys to sanitary products and even small household items, like toothpicks or even jewellery.
For external drainage systems, tree root intrusion is a common and often complex issue; roots naturally seek water sources and are capable of infiltrating tiny cracks or joints in the pipes, gradually growing and obstructing the flow of water. This problem can be particularly challenging to fix and in 9 out of 10 cases, usually requires professional intervention.
So, how can you fix a blocked drain? Here are some of the most common methods that both plumbers and the DIY-savvy can use:
For small and simple blockages, tools like a plunger or a plumber's snake (also known as a drain auger or drain snake) can be highly effective: the plunger creates a pressure difference that can dislodge clogs, while the snake can reach deeper into the pipe to break up or retrieve blockages.
Chemical, caustic drain cleaners - often made with acids and enzymes - can also be used to dissolve certain types of blockages, particularly those composed of organic materials. However, their effectiveness varies, and they can be harmful to your pipes - as well as the environment - if you use them too excessively.
Finally, there’s always the trusty home remedies! If you want to try a gentle method to unblock your drain, you can pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water into the blocked drain, which can be a safer alternative to chemical cleaners and can break up mild to moderate blockages with ease.
If you’re dealing with persistent or complex blockages, the expertise of a professional plumber is invaluable, and will help you get your plumbing system up and running again much quicker than with DIY methods. Not only will plumbers get the job done faster, but they’ll also be able to handle more severe blockages, such as those caused by tree roots or foreign objects that DIY methods simply can't address. Plus, professional intervention ensures that the problem is resolved without causing damage to the pipes, which can save you money on repairs in the long run.
It’s our mantra here at FS Drainage: prevention is always better than cure! And this is especially when it comes to blocked drains, which are so simple to prevent but can become complicated to get rid of. Here are some of our key strategies to prevent blocked drains in your home:
Avoid disposing of grease, food waste, and non-biodegradable items in your sinks and toilets, and use sink strainers to help catch hair and food particles.
Regularly clean your drains with hot water or a vinegar and baking soda solution to prevent the buildup of debris and grease; you can do this 1-2 times a week, or when necessary.
Be mindful of tree planting near underground pipes. If you have existing trees, consider regular inspections to check for root intrusion.
One of the easiest ways to prevent blocked drains is to install drain guards: drain guards can be an incredibly effective way to prevent hair and other debris from clogging bathroom drains, and they cost very little in comparison to the cost of repairing a burst pipe!
While blocked drains are incredibly annoying, it’s actually quite easy to maintain a healthy and efficient drainage system in your home with some simple maintenance and good old common sense. That said, when it comes to more complicated issues or more advanced maintenance, it’s best to speak to a professional plumbing company like us at FS Drainage. We can provide expert advice and prompt, professional services to keep your drains running smoothly, saving you time, and helping you avoid the inconvenience of recurring blockages.
