Richmond’s Step-by-Step Guide to Preventing Blocked Drains
Blocked drains can play havoc with your property, causing unwarranted stress and potentially leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. As a leading provider of drainage and plumbing services, we know the hassle of blocked drains all too well. That’s why we’ve put together Richmond’s step-by-step guide to preventing blocked drains, to help keep your system running smoothly.
Step 1: Regular Drain Maintenance
The key to avoiding any plumbing problem is regular maintenance. Keep an eye on your drains and carry out minor cleaning tasks at least once a week. This can mean pouring hot water down the sink, especially after dishwashing, to help remove fat deposits and other waste material. Regular maintenance can dramatically reduce the risk of a severe blockage.
Step 2: Careful Disposal of Waste
The major cause of blocked drains on any property is the way waste is disposed of. It’s essential to avoid using your sink or toilet as a garbage bin. As a rule of thumb, avoid flushing anything apart from toilet paper down the toilet, and avoid letting food scraps, coffee grinds, or oil go down the kitchen sink.
Step 3: Install Drain Guards
Drain guards or strainers can be a useful tool in stopping unwanted materials from getting into your drain. These handy devices are suitable for blocked drains richmond kitchen sinks, bathroom basins, and shower or bathtub drains, catching large chunks of food, hairs, or other debris before they can become a problem. Just make sure you clean these guards regularly.
Step 4: Use Natural Drain Cleaners
Instead of using harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can damage your pipes over time, consider natural alternatives. A simple solution of baking soda followed by vinegar can be used to break down minor clogs and keep your drains flowing freely. This solution is eco-friendly and costs less than store-bought products.
Step 5: Regular Professional Check-ups
Just as you would schedule a regular check-up for your health or a service for your car, doing the same for your drains can help prevent bigger issues down the line. Having a trusted professional plumber inspect your plumbing system is recommended as they can better diagnose any issue and offer more comprehensive solutions.
Step 6: Educate House Occupants
If you share your home with others, it’s crucial that everyone participates in maintaining the drains. Teach your housemates, including children, the right and wrong ways to treat the drainage system. Clear communication about what can and can’t be disposed down the drains can go a long way in preventing clog formation.
Step 7: Be Mindful of Trees and Plants
Plant and tree roots can infiltrate pipe joints, causing obstructions or pipe damage that leads to a blocked drain. Be mindful of where you’re planting, try to keep trees and large plants a safe distance from your pipes, and consider root barriers to limit their spread.
Step 8: Insulate Pipes in Cold Weather
In cold weather conditions, water inside pipes can freeze and cause blockages. Insulating your pipes in the winter can reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes and help you prevent blockages as a result.
By adhering to these eight easy steps, you can effectively maintain a healthy drainage system and prevent most blockage issues. However, if you find yourself facing a stubborn blocked drain, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable drainage and plumbing service provider. At Richmond, we’re always ready to help you sort out all your drainage and plumbing needs.