Blocked drains can be a major source of frustration in any household. Not only can they cause water damage, but they can also lead to unpleasant odors and even health hazards due to the growth of bacteria and mildew. Especially in a lovely town like Reading, you would want your home to be free of these issues. Thankfully, preventing blocked drains in your Reading home doesn’t have to be a blocked drains reading challenging task. Here are several tips you can put into practice to ensure a free-flowing plumbing system.
1. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
A majority of drain blockages happen because of wrong materials and substances being thrown down the drain. The most common culprits are grease, coffee grounds, and food debris, which many people thoughtlessly empty into their kitchen sink. These substances tend to solidify once they cool down, sticking to the pipe walls and eventually causing obstructions. Instead of throwing them down the sink, consider disposing of them in the bin.
In the bathroom, hair is the primary culprit. Consider using a hair strainer on your bathroom drain to prevent hair from clogging it. Also, avoid flushing non-flushable items like feminine hygiene products, diapers, wipes, or cotton swabs down the toilet.
2. Regularly Clean Your Drains
A little maintenance can go a long way in preventing blocked drains. For instance, pouring boiling water down your drain once a week can help melt away any fats or oils that may have built up along the pipeline walls. This weekly routine should keep your drains clear from minor blockages.
Also, it will be beneficial to use a plunger or plumber’s snake once in a while, especially if you notice your water starting to drain slower than usual. These tools physically dislodge and clear any minor blockage that may be forming in your pipes.
3. Install Drain Grates or Screens
Another practical way to prevent blocked drains in your Reading home is by installing drain grates, also known as drain screens. These small devices are designed to catch larger items that could potentially block the drain, like food debris in the kitchen sink and hair in the bathroom sink and shower.
4. Use Natural Cleaners
Instead of using harsh chemical cleaners that could damage your pipes over time, consider using natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar. Simply pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar, and let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. Afterwards, rinse it with hot water.
5. Regular Checkups by a Professional Plumber
Finally, having a professional plumber check your system regularly could save you from the headache of blocked drains. These professionals know what to look at and can spot potential issues before they become bigger, costly problems.
By following these tips, you can prevent most cases of blocked drains in your Reading home. However, always remember that in case of a major blockage, it’s safer to call in the experts. They have the right knowledge and tools to properly handle such situations without causing further damage to your system. Proactive prevention and management are key to maintaining a smooth, functioning home drainage system.