Having blocked drains rochester can be an unsightly and inconvenient problem to deal with. You may be noticing slow draining water or a foul odour coming from your kitchen sink or bathroom tub or shower. Your toilets may not be flushing properly, and your sinks may back up and start to overflow. All of these problems indicate that you have blocked drains.
Signs of Blocked Drains
The typical signs of blocked drains include strange gurgling sounds coming from the pipes, unusually slow drainage, and unpleasant odours emanating from the plumbing system. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to act quickly as blocked drains can lead to serious issues such as flooding or extensive water damage in your home. In order to prevent further damage, you will need to have your drains unblocked immediately.
Causes of Blocked Drains
Blocked drains can be caused by a variety of factors such as tree roots, blockages from foreign objects, broken or misaligned pipelines, or ground subsidence due to an unstable soil structure. Tree roots are a common cause of blocked drains, especially in older properties where the pipes may be nearing the end of their lifespan. Blockages from foreign objects are also a frequent occurrence, as people often flush items down the toilet or pour oils and fats down the sink without thinking about the potential consequences.
Common Solutions for Unblocking Drains
There are several solutions for unblocking drains that are available to property owners. The most common solution is the traditional “drain snake” which is a long flexible cable with an auger at one end for breaking up blockages. Often, however, the blockage is too deep for the drain snake to reach, in which case chemical drain cleaners may be used. These cleaners use acids or bases to dissolve the blockages, although they can sometimes corrode the pipework if used excessively.
Professional Drain Cleaning Rochester
If the blockage is particularly deep or stubborn, it may be necessary to call a professional drain cleaning company. A professional drain cleaner can use specialist tools such as CCTV cameras and high-pressure water jets to locate and remove the blockage. They can also advise on how to prevent blockages in the future. It is important to only use reputable companies as there are many unscrupulous operators who may cause more damage than good.
Preventing Future Blockages
Once your blocked drains are cleared, it is important to take steps to ensure they don’t get blocked again. For instance, never pour oil or fat down the drain as these can build up and create blockages. Also, avoid flushing bulky items such as paper towels and sanitary products down the toilet. Regular maintenance of the pipes and traps can also help reduce the risk of blockages.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can cause a range of inconvenient and unpleasant issues for homeowners. By staying aware of the signs of blocked drains and seeking immediate action when blockages occur, you can prevent expensive repairs and damage to your property. Professional drain cleaning services can help to locate and remove blockages quickly and safely, whilst regular maintenance can help to avoid them altogether.
