Have you ever had the misfortune of dealing with blocked drains?
It can be an annoying and time-consuming process. It is key to know what type of blockage you are dealing with, how to unblock it, and when to call in a professional.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of blocked drains, the signs that it’s time to call a professional, the importance of using an expert for blocked drains, and how to prevent them in the future.
Different Types of Blocked Drains
There are two main types of blocked drains; internal blockages and external blockages. Internal blockages occur within your drainpipes or plumbing system due to buildup from grease, debris or foreign objects like hair. External blockages occur outside your piping system due to roots growing into the drain or shifting soil, causing misalignment.
Common Blocked Drains Issues and How to Address Them
Learning about common blockage problems and how to solve them can help you prevent future issues. Let’s explore some of the most common causes of blocked drains and how to treat them.
Drain Blockages Caused by Hair & Grease Buildup
Hair and grease buildup are two of the most common causes of clogged drains. If your sink or shower drain is clogged, it may be due to a buildup of hair or grease built up over time. To unclog these blockages, you will need a specialised tool such as a plunger or a plumber’s snake.
Plungers are designed to fit over the drain’s opening and create suction which can help break up stubborn clogs. An auger or snake is a long metal cable inserted into your pipes to break up any large chunks of debris that may be causing the blockage.
It is important to use caution when using either tool, as they can damage your plumbing if not used correctly.
Tree Roots in Pipes
Tree roots in pipes are another common cause of blocked drains. Tree roots often grow towards water sources like pipes and sewage lines, leading to blockages and other plumbing issues.
If this is happening in your home, it’s important to call a professional who can assess the issue properly and determine if tree root removal is necessary. Professional plumbers have special tools that can safely remove tree roots from pipes without damaging your plumbing system.
Foreign Objects in Drains
Foreign objects, such as toys, jewelry, paper towels, etc., are common culprits for a clogged drain. These objects usually become stuck in pipes and cause blockages that need to be removed with specialised tools such as an auger or snake.
Signs It’s Time To Call In A Professional Plumber
If you are experiencing any of the following signs, it is time to call a professional plumber to take care of your blocked drains.
Slow Draining Water
One of the most common signs that you need a professional plumber is when water takes longer to drain away after use. When left unchecked, this can cause standing water, which leads to unpleasant odours and increased chances of mould growth. It can be especially problematic if you have multiple fixtures, such as sinks and showers, in your home.
Gurgling Noises
If your pipes make gurgling sounds, then it’s likely that something is blocking the flow of water through them. It could be anything from foreign objects such as hair or food scraps or even a more serious issue such as tree roots growing into the pipes. In any case, calling a professional plumber will help diagnose the problem and provide an effective solution for restoring water flow in your home.
Unpleasant Odours
A blocked drain can also lead to unpleasant odours in your home due to bacteria buildup in the pipes. If you start noticing strange smells coming from your drains, it’s likely time to call a professional plumber who can unclog your drains and eliminate the bad smells simultaneously!
Recurring Clogs
If you find yourself dealing with blocked drains frequently, this could indicate a more serious underlying problem, such as tree root invasion or pipe corrosion, that requires expert attention by a trained plumbing technician.
Water Backing Up
The final sign that it may be time to call in a professional plumber is when water starts backing up out of other fixtures when one particular fixture is being used or draining slowly. It indicates that too much pressure on the system can cause costly damage if not addressed quickly by an experienced plumber who knows how to properly identify and fix these issues without causing further damage down the line!
Why You Should Always Use an Expert for Blocked Drains
There are certain occasions where it’s best to call in the professionals. Here’s why you should always use an expert for blocked drains.
The Right Tools For The Job
Having the right tools can make all the difference in solving the issue quickly and efficiently when it comes to blocked drains. Professional plumbers come prepared with specialised equipment such as plungers, augers, high-pressure water jets, and cameras that allow them to diagnose the problem and take appropriate action accurately. They also have access to chemicals that can help break down any blockages that may be too deep or stubborn for a plunger alone.
Experience Matters
Professional plumbers have years of experience dealing with clogged drains and other plumbing issues. It allows them to troubleshoot quickly and accurately identify potential problems before they become bigger issues down the line.
The Risk Of DIY Repairs
While attempting DIY repairs may seem easy at first glance, this approach is often more trouble than it’s worth. Not only can it cause further damage if done incorrectly, but certain repairs require specific knowledge that most homeowners don’t possess.
How To Prevent Blocked Drains
Let’s take a look at some of the best tips and tricks to keep your drains clear and running smoothly.
Avoid Clogs With Regular Maintenance
The easiest way to prevent blocked drains is to inspect your pipes and ensure they’re well-maintained regularly. It’s important to check for potential clogs every few months, preferably more often if you live in an area with hard water or other issues that can cause buildup in your pipes.
Be Mindful Of What Goes Down Your Drain
It’s also important not to put anything down your drain that could cause a blockage. It includes food debris or scraps, cooking oils, hair, and even paper products like toilet paper or facial tissues. If you want to avoid blocked drains, it’s best to dispose of these items properly rather than flushing them down the drain. Additionally, ensure never to pour grease down your drain, as it can solidify and form large clogs over time.
Install A Drain Protector To Catch Hair And Other Particles
Installing a mesh screen or drain protector over your sink or shower drain can prevent most foreign objects from entering the drainage system. These devices usually sit right on top of the drain opening, catching debris like hair or soap chunks before they go down the pipe.
Final Thoughts
A blocked drain is a pain for everyone involved. The last thing you want to do is make the problem worse by trying to fix it yourself.
Always call in a professional plumber. All Elements Plumbing are expert at unblocking drains, so you know your problem is fixed as soon as possible. Call us today to fix your drain blockage.
About All Elements Plumbing & Gas – Your Local Plumber, Close by and Here to Help When You Need It Most!
Finding a reliable tradesperson to attend to your home is not always easy. We offer a good-different service. We will pick up our phone, or you can submit a call back request, and we will call you.
We can help with all plumbing and gas services in your home. You can rely on All Elements Plumbing & Gas to treat your home like our home. We will communicate with you about what work is being done and why; the area will be kept clean and tidy, and we will only supply you with quality workmanship and materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Unblock a Badly Blocked Drain?
Unblocking a badly blocked drain can be tricky, but it can usually be done with a few simple steps. To unblock a badly blocked drain, you will likely need to use either a DIY drain snake or an auger specially designed for clearing blocked drains. Both can usually be purchased from most hardware stores.
What Is the Main Cause of Blocked Drains?
One of the main causes of blocked drains is debris, such as hair or food, clogging up the drain hole. Baking soda and boiling water can help unclog outdoor drains; however, it’s best to call a professional blocked drain plumber when the issue is persistent or severe. DIY methods may worsen the problem and damage your pipes if done incorrectly. Hot water should also be used cautiously as it can cause irreparable damage. If you’re having frequent issues with blocked drains, you should reach out to an experienced professional who can help you solve your problem immediately and effectively.
What Do Plumbers Use to Unblock Drains?
For more serious blockages, professional plumbers often require more powerful chemical solutions such as drain cleaners or mechanical methods such as an electric eel (drain auger) to clear drain blockages properly. So if you have tried all the DIY methods and still have no luck unblocking your drain, it’s best to call in a qualified plumber who can quickly and safely clear blocked drains.
