blocked drain essex is a common problem and it can be incredibly annoying if you are not sure how to approach resolving it. There are many reasons why drains can become blocked, including fat and grease build up inside the pipework, tree roots entering the drain line, or debris being flushed down the sink that blocks the free flow of water. Whichever the cause, blocked drains should not be ignored and can quickly become a major issue if left unresolved.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
The most common cause of a blocked drain is a buildup of food scraps, fats and oils in the drainage pipe. Over time this can harden, blocking the smooth passage of liquids. Other causes of blockages include objects becoming lodged in the drain or foreign materials such as wipes, sanitary products, plastics or similar items being flushed away. Tree roots are sometimes capable of penetrating drainage systems and also cause a blockage.
Signs That You Have a Blocked Drain
There are several signs that you may have a blocked drain. The most obvious sign is the slow draining of sinks, baths and showers. Other tell tale signs are toilets that take a long time to fill, bad odours coming from the drain, or gurgling noises when water runs down the pipes. If your house has an exterior manhole cover, you may also notice visible water marks on the walls indicating that water is backing up.
Prevention is Better than Cure
In order to avoid the problems associated with blocked drains, try to avoid flushing items down the toilet that do not belong there such as tampons, nappies, paper towels, and cotton wool. Grease and fat should also be disposed of elsewhere rather than pouring it down the sink. Be conscious of what you are flushing and use a drain guard where possible. Regular inspection and maintenance should also help reduce the risk of experiencing a blockage.
DIY Solutions for Blocked Drains
It is possible to unblock a blocked drain yourself. Start by trying to locate the blockage and then remove any debris that is preventing the free flow of water. Boiling water poured into the affected area can often help to break down some of the debris, but this is only a short-term solution. If you don’t feel confident to tackle the task yourself, or cannot locate the obstruction, it could be worth considering hiring a professional.
Professional Assistance for Blocked Drains
Your best bet may be to call in a professional drainage engineer. A drainage expert will have the necessary tools and expertise to identify and eliminate blockages quickly and safely. They will be able to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action so that the matter can be resolved before it causes any further damage.
When looking for an engineer, it’s important to make sure that they are properly qualified and adequately insured to carry out the job. It’s also essential to check that they hold the appropriate Health and Safety certification so that you can rest assured that their work is of a high standard.
Conclusion
Being aware of the signs and causes of blocked drains is important in order to prevent them from happening in the first place. DIY solutions may be suitable in some cases, although more serious obstructions could require external help. Professional drainage engineers are highly skilled and experienced in clearing blocked drains, and they are the best people to turn to when a serious blockage requires attention.
