If you’re living in Kent and are dealing with blocked drains, you’re not alone. Blocked drains can be a common occurrence, especially in busy households or businesses. Fortunately, many of these blockages can be easily fixed yourself, without having to call in an expensive plumbing contractor. In this article, we’ll explain why blockages occur and how you can take action to unblock them. So, if you’re looking for more information about how to handle blocked drains Kent, read on!
What Causes Blocked Drains?
Blockages in your drains can be caused by many different things, such as tree roots, grease and fat, foreign objects, and even soap scum. If you’ve noticed water draining slowly and standing in the sink, basin, or bathtub, it’s likely that the pipe is partly blocked. If nothing else, it might be worth having a good look to see what you can see.
Steps to Unblocking Your Drains
If you have identified the location of the blockage, there are a few steps you can take to clear them out yourself. First off, try using a plunger to dislodge whatever may be stuck in the pipe. You could also use caustic soda, which is a very effective way of breaking down grease and other stubborn substances. You do need to exercise caution when handling caustic soda though, as it can produce toxic fumes and skin irritation.
Alternatively, you could use a pipe auger, which is a long flexible metal coil that can reach into the drain to remove any obstructions. Finally, you could also use boiling water – if the blockage isn’t too severe, pouring around two litres of hot, but not boiling water down the drain should do the trick.
When to Call a Professional
If none of these DIY solutions seem to work, it may be time to call in an expert. A professional plumber will be able to use specialist equipment, such as CCTV cameras and water jetting, to assess the problem and determine the best course of action. Professional plumbing services can also identify any underlying issues that may be causing the blockage and suggest the best ways to prevent them from happening again in the future.
Staying on Top of Blocked Drains Kent
The best way to stay on top of blocked drains Kent is to practice proper maintenance. This includes ensuring all debris and food waste is disposed of properly and avoiding pouring grease and oil down the sink. It’s also important to regularly inspect pipes and drains for problems, removing any leaves and twigs that may have become lodged in the drain. If you spot any issues, deal with them as soon as possible rather than leaving the problem for later.
By following the advice above, you should be able to keep your drains running smoothly. And, if anything does happen, now you know what steps you can take to try and resolve the issue before having to call in a professional. For more information, contact a local plumber in Kent for advice and assistance.
