Blocked drains are a common plumbing issue that can cause flooding, smell and health hazards. Trying to unblock a drain without proper knowledge and practice is dangerous and could cause more damage than good. It is important to know how to detect if the drain is blocked, what kind of blockage it might be, and when to call for help from a professional plumber.more information
Signs of a Blocked Drain
One of the most obvious signs of a blocked pipe or drain is an unpleasant odour coming from the sink or toilet. If left alone, a blocked drain can overflow with wastewater from the bathroom or kitchen. This can lead to water damage and expensive repairs down the line. Other signs that may indicate a blocked drain include slow draining water, gurgling noises coming from the pipes and pools of water collecting on the floor near the drain.
Identifying the Blockage
Before attempting any DIY repair work, it is important to accurately identify the type of blockage in the drain. Common causes can range from food scraps, grease and hair getting stuck in the pipes, to objects falling into the toilet such as toys or sanitary items. It is also possible that a full blockage has occurred which means that waste might have built up and been unable to pass through the drainage system altogether.
Tackling Small Blockages
If you’ve identified the blockage as small enough, you can try to remove it yourself. Firstly make sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear to avoid contact with any harmful bacteria. For small blockages, a plunger can be used to create suction which will help to loosen the lodged item causing the blockage. Alternatively, chemical cleaners can be poured into the pipe to help dissolve some blockages, although care should be taken when using chemicals around the home as they can be hazardous.
Know When To Call For Professional Help
If a blockage is too big or cannot be cleared by DIY measures, it is time to call a professional. They will be able to quickly identify the problem and carry out repairs safely without compromising the plumbing system. Furthermore, they will be able to tell the homeowner if the clog was caused by a deeper issue such as tree roots or broken pipes.
It is important to act fast when dealing with blocked drains. If left untreated, a blockage can cause extensive damage to the drainage system, resulting in costly repairs. For more information, or if the issue cannot be resolved with DIY methods, always contact a qualified plumber.
Blocked drains can be a major issue, caused by a variety of factors including fat and food build up, foreign objects that are accidentally washed down the sink, tree root ingression and broken or collapsed pipes. Blocked drains can cause many problems from bad odors and fly infestations to environmental damage if it reaches a nearby waterway. While a bottle of drain cleaner may seem like a quick solution, it will not fully and properly clear the blockage. That’s why you should always call professional and licensed plumbing services to handle blocked drains. Professionals have access to specialist tools and know-how to both identify the cause of the blockage and remedy it safely and quickly.
