For most people, their drainage system is the last thing that comes to mind when they think of things that need maintenance in their homes. After all, it is very rare that you will find your drainage system not working. However, everyone, including the neighbours, will know when it goes wrong. It would be best if you got a professional to help you with a blocked drain when it gets to that.
But before it gets to that, you can always prevent your drainage system from blocking or leaking by doing the following things.
Inspect the Pipes
While you don’t necessarily need to inspect the pipes of your drainage every week or month, at least make an effort to do it once a year. Remove any inspection covers while at it, and if you can, use a pipe inspection camera to get an accurate picture of what is in the pipes. A camera will get inside the pipes and give you the perfect picture of the actual condition of the pipes. Once you identify any issues, fix them or contact professionals. The more you wait, the bigger problem they will become. Therefore, even if they are just a partial blockage, get rid of them before the problem worsens.
Use Boiling Water
One of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy drainage system is by regularly washing it with hot water. Ideally, make it a habit to wash it once a week. The boiling water will dissolve the oils from food products in the system. Doing so helps the waste run down the drain with ease instead of building up in the interior of the pipes. If the oil builds up on the surface of the pipes, it makes the drain a bit sluggish and can also lead to clogs.
Take Precautions when Washing your Pets
Washing your pet is fun, but it is not always an easy task. If you are like most people who wash their pets in the shower, there is a possibility that it will leave hair in the plughole. To avoid that, make it a habit to lay a washcloth over the shower drain to catch excess hair from the pet. Then take the hair from the cloth and throw it away in the garbage. That way, you will significantly reduce the amount of hair going to the drain, maintaining the drainage system’s health.
Be on the Lookout for Signs of Trouble
Generally, issues with the drainage system are not noticeable until it is too late. However, if you are keen, you could notice signs of trouble before it entirely blows out. One of the most obvious signs is noticing a smell out of the ordinary. Additionally, any leakages could be an underlying issue with the drainage system. If you notice such issues, seek drain cleaning Guildford, and we will help you before the minor problem becomes a major issue.
Use Drain Guard
Make it a habit to use a drain guard on all the plug holes. That way, you will be able to reduce the amount of waste getting washed to the sink. Use drain guards in your shower as well to avoid draining hair and debris through the system. Drain guards are very affordable, and you can get one from your nearest plumbing shop. Alternatively, you can order the drain guards online.
Use Salt and Baking Soda
If your drainage system is blocked already, you could use baking soda and salt to help unblock it. Mix a cup of table salt with a half cup of baking soda and pour it into the blocked drain. Leave the mixture in the drain for around 20 minutes. Then, pour boiling water into it. When salt and baking soda are mixed, they create a chemical reaction that is so powerful to dissolve almost any kind of blockage.
Use Chemical Cleaners
If you notice minor blockages and a combination of baking soda and salt won’t fix it, you might want to consider using chemical cleaners. Chemical cleaners are stronger than baking soda + salt, and they are likely to get rid of most blockages. You can get chemical cleaners from supermarkets. Pour it down the drain and leave it there for a couple of hours. Preferably, leave the chemical overnight and then pour hot water in the morning. In most cases, it will unblock the blockages.
Call Professionals
Sometimes, there are issues that you cannot fix yourself. If you have tried everything and can’t unblock the drains, it’s important to hire a professional. Most professionals can help you out if you are struggling with blocked drains. Drainage Care offers services to residents within Guildford and surrounding areas, 24/7. Drain unblocking Guildford comes at affordable rates, providing help at any time of day or night. Visit Drainage Care UK for more on your drain cleaning needs.