Blocked drains can occur in any home, often at the most inappropriate time. For residents of Watford, understanding the reasons behind these blockages can help prevent the inconvenience and cost associated with repair. Here are the seven most common causes of blocked drains in Watford homes:
1. Grease and Fat Build-up: This is the most common cause of blocked drains, not only in Watford, but worldwide. When we wash dishes or pots, the fat and grease from our food often end up down the drain. Over time, these substances solidify and build up, eventually blocking the drain. To avoid this, don’t pour kitchen grease directly into the sink. Instead, allow it to cool and solidify, then dispose of it in the trash.
2. blocked drains watford Hair Accumulation: Another common source of drain blockage is hair, which can build up in showers, bathtubs, and sinks over time. While one or two strands of hair may not cause a problem, they can accumulate and intertwine to create a significant blockage. Frequently cleaning the drain area and using preventative measures such as a drain guard can help reduce the risk.
3. Toiletries and Sanitary Items: Flushing inappropriate items such as diapers, sanitary pads, baby wipes, and other non-flushable toiletries down the toilet can lead to considerable drain blockages. These items do not disintegrate like toilet paper; instead, they swell up, leading to obstructions. Hence, one should only flush toilet paper and human waste.
4. Tree Roots: This is often a problem in older properties in Watford that have mature trees in proximity. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture in drains and can penetrate small cracks in the pipe to access it. Eventually, roots can block the drain or even cause structural damage to the pipe itself.
5. Deteriorated Pipes: Older homes, with deteriorating pipe systems, can often face drainage problems. Substandard materials, corrosion over time, ground movement, or even poor installation can all contribute to weakening the pipes. When pipes collapse, they cause severe blockages. Only a professional plumber can replace or repair the pipe adding to a significant cost.
6. Foreign Objects: Small toys, fallen jewellery, or general household debris like soap and toothpaste caps can accidentally fall into the drain causing blockage. Curiosity among young children often leads to items being flushed down toilets for fun too.
7. Accumulation of dirt: Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate in your pipes and cause a blockage. This is particularly common in drains outside your home, where mud, leaves, and other outdoor debris can easily enter the drain. Regular sewer and drain cleaning can keep these problems at bay.
Prevention is crucial in dealing with blocked drains. Knowing what to put down the drains, regular cleaning, and timely repairs can be more cost-effective than tackling severe blockages.
However, even with the best prevention, sometimes blocked drains just happen. In these situations, remember not to use harsh chemicals to attempt a fix. They could end up doing more harm than good to your pipes and the environment. Instead, consult an experienced professional who can diagnose the problem and provide a solution.
In Watford, many professionals are ready to tackle the ‘common causes of blocked drains in homes. Take your time to evaluate the services provided before deciding on the right one for you. Majority of them offer emergency services so you can have peace of mind knowing help is readily available whenever you need it.