Drain blockages are common issues that Southampton residents often deal with, but they are not, by any means, unavoidable. This nuisance can be prevented by following several practical steps and tips. The inconvenience and cost of dealing with a blocked drain can be totally averted with some easy maintenance practices and a responsible approach towards your home’s plumbing system. In this article, we will show you several crucial steps on how to prevent drain blockage.
One reason why drain blockages occur frequently in Southampton is because the city is popularly known for its ‘hard water’. That means, the water in the area contains high levels of calcium and magnesium which, over time, creates mineral deposits in the pipes, leading to blockages. Therefore, one way to prevent this is by installing a water softener. Water softener work by exchanging hard minerals in the water with sodium ions, thus reducing the potential for mineral build-up in your pipes.
However, while a water softener can help with mineral build-up, one of the main causes of blockages are solid objects or materials going down the drain. Leftover food, kitchen oil and grease are the most common culprits that cause kitchen drain blockages. To prevent this, always scrape your plates into the trash before rinsing them and never pour grease or oil down the drain. Keep in mind that when grease cools, it congeals and sticks to the pipe walls, forming a blockage over time. Instead, allow the grease to cool and then dispose of it in the garbage.
A sink strainer is also a handy tool to use. This device prevents unwanted food remnants from finding their way into the drain. It’s an easy preventive measure any Southampton resident can employ to stop frequent drain blockages, especially in the kitchen area.
In the bathroom, the key culprits are soap scum, hair, and other bathroom products which can easily cause plugs in your pipes. To stop these materials from ending up in your drain, consider using a drain cover or a hair catcher. This simple tool can save you numerous headaches as it traps hair before it goes down the drain, making it easy to dispose of appropriately.
In addition, teaching the younger ones in your home to only flush small amounts of toilet paper and absolutely never flush wipes, cotton balls, or feminine hygiene products is crucial in the prevention of toilet drain blockages. These items do not disintegrate quickly and often end up leading to serious blockages that require professional repair.
Preventing drain clogs also demands regular drain cleaning. There are plenty of safe, natural ways to do this, such as using a solution of vinegar and baking soda. Pouring half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain, then covering it for a few minutes and finally flushing with boiling water, can work blocked drains southampton wonders in keeping your pipes clear.
For the external drains, make sure you keep them free from debris such as leaves and branches, particularly during autumn. Regularly sweeping your yard and keeping it clear from such debris will greatly reduce the risk of them finding their way into your drains.
In conclusion, preventing drain blockages in Southampton doesn’t equate to a herculean task. It just requires a bit of thought and care. By following these simple steps, residents will not only save themselves from trouble but will also ensure their plumbing system’s longevity. But if a blockage seems stubborn or serious, it best to call in a professional plumber to have a look. Torrential Plumbing, Simm Lane Drainage and Kelbie Home Improvement are some of the recommended local firms that residents may contact when there’s a need for professional help.