How To Prevent Future Blocked Drains

Let's face it, our drainage systems play a very important role in our homes or commercial properties. Our homes, offices, hotels and other commercial buildings rely on drains to safely and correctly dispose of excess waste and water. 

Which is why it's vitally important to prevent your drains becoming blocked in the future. This article will give you some helpful tips and tricks to help you care for your drains. However, before we get there, it is beneficial to know the common causes of sewer and drain blockages.

Dirt, hair and soap scum in the drains

When you have a shower, or even just use the sink, hair particles, dirt and soap scum can all find their way into the bathroom drains. When these are left to accumulate, they can reduce space for water passage and cause potentially major problems.

Unsuitable objects in the toilet drains and sinks

One of the major blockages of toilets comes from people flushing materials that do not dissolve or break in water, such as diapers, female hygiene towels and wipes. These materials build up in the drain and clog up the drainpipes. Similarly, food particles, soap scum, grease and fat can also accumulate on the sides of the drainage pipes coming from the sinks too.

Penetrating tree roots

There are occasions where roots of big trees can force their way into drainage systems and damage the pipework in the process, leading to clogging and the eventual blocking of the drainage pipes.

Wear and tear

Over time, any drainage system can wear out, especially if the proper maintenance is not undertaken. This can sometimes lead to a fault within the system resulting to blockages. 

Foreign materials in the drain

Other objects like stone particles, leaves and debris can also find their way into the drainage system. Similarly, pouring paints and other thicker liquids into the drain can also clog the pipes and result in blockages.

Freezing pipes

During the colder months, water can sometimes freeze in the pipes and block the passages, either completely or partially. If the appropriate maintenance measures are not taken on time, this process can put a real strain on the pipes and lead to permanent damage.

Six tips and tricks to help prevent blocked drains

Try using a plug screen over the plughole

You can purchase plug screens that act as a sort of filter that traps items before they can enter the drain and cause blockages. They're ideal for use in kitchen sinks to prevent food particles and other debris from entering the drains, as well as bathroom sinks to restrict soap, hair and dirt likewise.

They are available in different sizes, so make sure you purchase one that can fit in your plughole.

Refrain from pouring chemicals into your drains

It's very important to dispose of chemicals and other pharmaceutical products appropriately, in compliance with the local environmental laws. Otherwise, paints, used engine oil, solvents and similar products can corrode drainage pipes and result in severe damage.

Avoid putting fats and oils into your kitchen sink

Unlike water and other liquids, oils and fats can quickly solidify and stick onto the walls of your drainage pipes, therefore trapping more waste. It's therefore important to avoid putting such materials down your kitchen drain to try and prevent causing a potential blockage where possible.

Dispose of fibrous materials appropriately

Many homeowners dispose of feminine hygiene products, cotton wipes, baby diapers and cotton wool by flushing them down the toilet, but you mustn't do this. Make sure you place these products and other such waste in the bin instead.

Keep the drainage line clear

To minimise the chances of leaves falling down and getting into your drainage system, try and avoid planting trees near or above the drain/sewer system. This will also prevent the risk of root damage and penetrating tree roots in the process too.

Consider water softening

In some locations, water may contain natural minerals like calcium or magnesium (hard water). This can often accumulate inside drains and potentially restrict the passage of water. In these instances, it might be worth considering using electronic softeners of sodium to help dissolve these naturally occurring minerals. 

You could therefore think about installing a low cost sodium softener or an electric version; which can both be supplied and fitted by experienced drainage professionals.

Utilising these tips and tricks should help you to prevent any future blocked drains. However, in the unlikely event that you do suffer a blocked drain, have it quickly repaired by the experts at JLH Drains. Contact us today to discuss your requirements with one of our experienced and friendly team.