In the bustling city of St Albans, blocked drains can bring about a real headache to homeowners and businesses alike. When pipes and drains block, they can cause significant disruption, not to mention potential damage to your property. Therefore, having a preventative approach in dealing with your drainage system can save you time, money, and avoid needless stress. Here are our top tips to prevent drains from blocking in St Albans.
1. Pay Attention to What Goes Down the Drain
The main culprit for blocked drains is what you dispose of through them. Be mindful of what goes down your drains; cooking oils, fats, hair, food, and non-biodegradable substances tend to accumulate in the pipes, causing blockages over time. Try installing drain strainers to capture small and potentially harmful particles. For kitchen sinks, try using a grease trap to collect oils and fats that can cause obstruction.
2. Regular Cleaning
On its own, water might not clean drains thoroughly. Therefore, make it a practice to clean your drains with a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda and vinegar respectively down the drain, followed by two litres of boiling water. This mixture will help dissolve minor blockages and prevent them from accumulating and causing a larger problem.
3. Prevent Tree Root Intrusion
In St Albans, like many urban areas, tree root intrusion is a common cause of blocked drains. As roots from trees and large shrubs seek moisture, they can crack and invade your pipes, leading to blockages. This is why it is crucial to be cautious when planting trees or large shrubs near your sewer line. Consider seeking professional advice to identify safe planting distances to prevent root intrusion.
4. Use of Drain Cleaners
While a quick solution may be to use commercial drain cleaners, remember that these are often composed of harsh chemicals that may blocked drains st albans damage your pipes. Instead, opt for enzyme-based cleaners that are less harmful and environmentally friendly. These cleaners use bacteria or enzymes to break down the clog, without damaging the pipes.
5. Regular Professional Check-up
No matter how cautious you are, it’s always advantageous to have your drains professionally inspected at least once a year. Professionals have the knowledge and tools to spot potential issues early before they create more serious problems. They can perform a drain camera survey, a highly effective method which allows for accurate and in-depth inspection of your drain condition.
6. Pipe Guardian Products
There’s an array of products available in St Albans designed to keep your pipes clear. Bio-clean is a non-poisonous solution that tackles the problem at a molecular level. It helps to digest dead organic waste found in your plumbing system. Another product to try is RootX, a root intrusion solution that helps eliminate roots from your sewage system and prevents regrowth.
7. Educate House Occupants
Last but certainly not least, educate everyone in the house about the importance of proper drain use. Make sure they understand what can and cannot be put in the drains or flushed down the toilets.
In conclusion, keeping drains in St Albans blockage-free is quite manageable with a bit of vigilance and routine maintenance. It’s about being mindful of what goes into the drain system and maintaining regular checks to foresee trouble well ahead of time. Remember, when it comes to blocked drains, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.