Keeping your home operating smoothly is a task that every homeowner in Stevenage must take seriously. One of the issues that you cannot ignore is the problem of blocked drains. It’s crucial to address it immediately to prevent further complications like inefficient water flow, unhygienic conditions, and skyrocketing repair costs. However, preventing blocked drains is much easier than dealing with the consequences. Here are some practical tips to prevent your Stevenage home’s drains from blocking.
1. Keep Food Debris and Grease out of the Kitchen Sink: One of the most common sources of blocked drains is the kitchen sink. Food particles or grease are not supposed to go down the drain as they can solidify and accumulate over time, causing severe blockages. Therefore, it’s essential to scrape off leftovers into the trash before doing the dishes. Similarly, pour any leftover grease or oil into a container and dispose of it correctly once it’s cooled down.
2. Use a Drain Strainer: A drain strainer is an efficient way to catch and prevent solid particles from going down the drain. It’s particularly beneficial in kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and shower drains where the accumulation of food particles, hair, and soap scum is prevalent. Cleaning the strainer regularly can keep your drains clear.
3. Regular Cleaning of Drains: Regular drain cleaning cannot be overemphasized. Several natural cleaning methods can help you maintain clean drains. For instance, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can do wonders. Pour a half cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a half cup of vinegar. Wait for 15-20 minutes and then rinse with hot water. This combination creates a fizzing action that helps to clean the inner walls of the drain pipes.
4. Dispose of Toilet Waste Properly: The toilet is not a garbage disposal unit. Many homeowners in Stevenage make the mistake of flushing down objects such as wipes, cotton buds, nappies, and others. Such items are not designed to disintegrate in water, leading to blockages. It’s advisable only to flush human waste and toilet paper.
5. Regular Professional Inspection: No matter how well you take care of your drains, having a professional take a look every now and then can help you prevent serious problems in the future. Plumbers have specialised tools and experience to detect potential blockage issues before they escalate.
6. Install a Sewer Backflow Preventer: Backflows occur due to heavy rain causing the councils’ sewerage blocked drains stevenage system to overflow into your property. A device known as a sewer backflow prevention valve can prevent this. While the installation may be on the higher end price-wise, it can save you a considerable amount of money in massive repair jobs.
7. Maintain Your Garden: Interestingly, trees and large plants root growth can cause blocked drains, especially if planted near sewer lines. Regular pruning and maintenance of garden landscaping can help prevent clogs due to roots growing into your sewer lines.
In summary, prevention is better – and usually cheaper – than cure. The story is no different when it comes to blocked drains in your home in Stevenage. By embracing these simple tips, you could reduce the chances of blocked drains and the headaches that come with them. It’s a practice of essential home maintenance that can save you scores of hassles and unnecessary costs in the future.