blocked drains margate can be a real problem. Whether it’s an overflowing sink, toilet or shower drain, not being able to clear them can cause hundreds of dollars in damage and disruption to your home or business. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of blocked drains Margate, provide some tips on how to unclog them and explain when you should call in a professional plumber.
What Causes Blockages?
Most of the time, blockages are caused by items that have been mistakenly put down the drain, such as sanitary items like tampons, too much hair, food waste, grease, soap scum, medicine, and other substances – including tree roots! If these items find their way into the pipes, they can quickly build up over time and form a clog.
How to Unclog Drains
Before calling a professional plumber, you may want to try and remove the blockage yourself using a plunger or an auger (or “drain snake”). To use a plunger, you should first fill the sink or bathtub with enough water to cover the base, and then insert the plunger tightly over the drain. Pump the plunger around ten times and then pull it away from the sink. You should see the water start to drain, which means the blockage has been removed.
If using a plunger doesn’t work, an auger may do the trick. This device is designed to reach further down the pipes and dislodge more difficult blockages. Simply feed the auger into the drain until you hear it hit the blockage, then turn it clockwise and push it further down. Once the blockage has been removed, the water will start to flow again.
When to Call a Professional
In some cases, the blockage may be too deep for a plunger or even an auger to dislodge. If this is the case, it’s best to call in a professional plumber. They will use specialist equipment to locate and remove the blockage, ensuring that your drains are running freely again. All plumbers should also be able to advise you on steps you can take to help prevent future blockages.
DIY Solutions to Avoid
Although there are plenty of DIY solutions available online, it’s important to remember that some of these methods can actually be dangerous and can make the problem worse. For example, chemical-based drain cleaners are highly corrosive and can cause serious damage to pipes, while plunging at high speed can also be dangerous if done incorrectly.
It’s also important to avoid pouring boiling water down your drains as this can lead to cracks in the pipes and potential leaks. Instead, look for natural cleaning solutions such as baking soda and vinegar, or common household items like washing up liquid and salt.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Finally, prevention is always better than cure, so it pays to keep your drains regularly maintained. This might include clearing out any debris or food waste before it has a chance to block the drains, using screen filters in your bathroom sinks to catch hairs, running hot water down the plug hole frequently, and cleaning your drainage system with a biodegradable drain cleaner every few months.
By following these simple steps, you can minimise the risk of blocked drains Margate and keep your plumbing systems in tip-top condition for years to come. Of course, if you ever encounter a blocked drain that you can’t unblock, don’t hesitate to call in a professional plumber.
