Living in the scenic town of Bournemouth, you enjoy your life bounded by the sandy beaches, beautiful gardens, and bustling city centers. But like every homeowner, residents may encounter the frustrating problem of a blocked drain, causing an untimely inconvenience and potential health risks. This guide will help you understand what to do when your drain is blocked.
Firstly, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms of a blocked drain. It includes foul odour emanating from the pipe, slow water drainage, raised water levels in your toilet, and gurgling sounds from drains or plug holes. Meanwhile, the causes can range from accumulation of grease, fats or food waste, to hair, soap, sediment buildup and even tree roots penetration.
If you encounter such issues, don’t panic, take the following steps:
1. Attempt a DIY fix: Often a simple plunger can clear minor blockages. For sinks and baths, cover overflow with a damp cloth and create a seal around the plunger. Hold firmly, pump the plunger a few times and then release to check if the water drains properly. Chemical products can also be helpful but should be avoided if possible due to safety concerns and potential pipe damage. Occasionally, long-handled brushes or drain rods can manually shift blockages or simply try a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to dissolve the obstruction.
2. Use Drain Snake: A more substantial blockage might require use of a drain snake or a plumber’s augur. This tool can reach further into the piping system and physically break up the blockage.
3. Call professionals: If you’ve tried everything but the problem persists, it’s time to call a drainage professional. They have specialist equipment blocked drains bournemouth like high-pressure water jets and CCTV drain cameras to locate and resolve hard-to-reach blockages, ensuring the drain is clear and back in perfect working order.
Bournemouth has some renowned and reliable services. Companies like Canford Drains, Drain Doctor, and Bournemouth Drains provide 24/7 call out services, eco-friendly solutions, and quick response times. Moreover, they offer preventive services which include regular drain maintenance and CCTV surveys to check on any potential blockage before it causes a problem.
4. Prevent Future Blockage: It’s always easier to prevent blockages than to deal with them. Be careful about what goes down your drain. Avoid tipping oils or grease down the sink, dispose of coffee grounds correctly and install drainage covers to catch any materials like hair or food bits. It would be wise to have a regular drain cleaning service to avoid serious blockages.
5. Keep Track of Sewer System: With Bournemouth’s weather being unpredictable, heavy rain could lead to more than just blocked drains. Flood risk is a reality and you must ensure that your house is well equipped to deal with it. Regularly check your home’s sewer pump system and keep it in functioning order.
Blocked drains can be a nuisance and if not dealt with properly, it can lead to more severe issues. Whether it’s a simple plunger job or a call to the professionals, prompt action is essential. Keeping your drain blocks free is not just a matter of convenience, but also a necessity to maintain the sanitation and hygiene of your home.
Remember, prevention is better than cure. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure seamless and efficient plumbing system for your home in Bournemouth. It’ll not only enhance your quality of life but also contribute to the overall beauty and cleanliness of the picturesque town.