Think of coming back home after a long day. You’re about to take a relaxing shower, only to find the water isn’t draining. This situation is not just frustrating but can also lead to more severe plumbing issues. In this blog, we’ll guide you through understanding the causes of clogged drains and practical steps to avoid them with regular maintenance.
Understanding The Common Causes Of Drain Blockages
Drain blockages can disrupt your daily routine and cause significant inconvenience. Recognising what causes these blockages is the first step in prevention:
Hair: Often accumulates and binds with grease and other sticky substances, forming clogs.
Soap Scum: Traditional bars of soap are made with fat or grease. These substances combine with minerals in water, creating soap scum that lines pipes.
Organic Residues: Food waste doesn’t break down easily and can accumulate in pipes. It can lead to blocked drains.
Understanding these common culprits helps in formulating effective preventative strategies, ensuring your drains remain clear and functional.
Why Is Regular Drain Maintenance Important?
Regular drain maintenance is an aspect of household upkeep that should never be overlooked. Consistent checks and cleaning prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. Blockages can lead to slow water drainage, corrosion, flooding and, in extreme cases, sewage backup and costly repairs. Regular maintenance helps maintain hygienic conditions, preventing potential health hazards. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about your health and the structural integrity of your home.
Routine Practices To Keep Your Drains Flowing Smoothly
Here are daily practices you can follow to prevent drain blockages:
Regularly clean strainers and stoppers in your sinks and showers.
Run hot water through the sink after each use.
Throw a handful of baking soda into the drain and follow it with hot water.
Use a drain guard to catch food particles and hair.
Adopting these habits can save you a lot of trouble and expense in the long run.
Top Items To Avoid Flushing Down Your Drains
Certain items can cause blockages and should never be flushed down drains. These include:
Cooking grease, oil or fat
Coffee grounds
Hair
Eggshells
Produce stickers
Cotton balls and paper towels
Disposing of these items properly can significantly reduce the risk of clogs in your plumbing system.
Keep Your Plumbing System Running Smoothly
Early intervention is important in managing blocked drains. Watch out for warning signs like slow-draining sinks or gurgling noises from your toilet. If you notice any of these issues, call the plumbers at ACS Plumbing. Whether you’re dealing with persistent blockages or need regular maintenance, our team is equipped to handle all your plumbing needs with the professionalism you deserve. Don’t let a minor inconvenience turn into a major headache; connect with us today!