Drain maintenance isn’t often high on people’s lists when it comes to cleaning. Many people think it’s a job for the experts, and while that is undoubtedly true in some cases, there are a few things any homeowner should be doing regularly.
Keeping your drains in top condition is vital all year round. Good drain maintenance will not only save you the stress and hassle of blocked drains but also protect the structural integrity of your home for years to come.
Read on for some of the best ways to keep your drains clean and smelling fresh.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from PexelsKnow The Signs Of A Blocked Drain
Make sure you know the sounds, smell and look of a blocked drain. The most obvious sign of a clogged drain is slowly draining water in your sink or bath. Blocked drains will often make odd noises so keep an ear out for any unusual gurgling that can be caused by trapped air trying to pass a blockage.
Blocked drains will also come with an unpleasant smell. This can often be an early indicator of blockage, so it is essential not to ignore any foul odours emitting from your drains.
Sometimes a commercial drain unblocker will be enough to get your drains working again. However, these should be used carefully as improper use can cause more damage than good. If using drain unblocker is not sufficient, then you must get professional advice and help.
Consult The Experts
Sometimes you will need to consult an expert when it comes to your drains. If you suspect a blocked drain and using commercial drain unblocker hasn’t worked then it is time to bring in the professionals. If your blocked drain is located within your home, then it is your (or your landlord’s) responsibility to unblock. If the blockage is coming from outside your home, within the sewage system, then it will be your local utility service’s responsibility to fix.
Getting help from an expert is key to ensuring that, if the problem is within your home, it is properly cleared to maintain the integrity of your plumbing system. Always use a professional service that specialises in drainage. Have a look at Drain Detectives, experts in identifying blocked drains in London for an idea of the standard you need when choosing a drainage expert.
Use Bicarbonate Of Soda
This is a great, cost-effective way of keeping your drains smelling fresh. Bicarbonate of soda is a fantastic all-round cleaner and is an excellent odour buster.
You can sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda down the drain and rinse it down with water. Do this regularly, not just if your drain has started to smell. By doing this, you will help prevent any build-up of bad smells.
For an even more thorough clean mix some bicarbonate of soda with white vinegar. Pour this down the drain and allow to sit for five minutes, and then rinse with boiling water. Doing this regularly with all of your drains is a great preventative measure for protecting your drains.
Never Pour Fats Into The Drain
Fats are liquid at hot temperatures but quickly solidify when cooling. Congealed fats are a common cause of drain blockages, so it is vital to take measures to prevent any build up of grease and fat in your drains.
You should always pour any excess fats into a container and allow them to cool and solidify, then throw into the bin or take to your local recycling depot. This is an essential preventative measure.
Use Boiling Water To Flush Your Drains
This is great for any bits of grease and fat that may have accumulated. No matter how careful you are, there is likely to be some fats that escape down the drain. The best way to prevent any build up is by flushing your drains with boiling water. It would be best if you did this regularly, at least once a week, with all drains, including those in the bathroom.
Keep Excess Hair To A Minimum
Build up of hair is another major cause of blockages. Combined with any fat and grease, they can quickly create a blockage that is difficult to budge. Again prevention here is critical.
Make sure you remove any hair from the drain as soon as you see it. You can also brush your hair before you get into the shower, to remove any loose hairs before you get in.
If you have pets, you should ideally try to bathe them outside. Animals shed their hair at a much faster pace than humans, and their hair is short enough that it is often quickly washed down the drain instead of being caught in the plug. If bathing your pets outside isn’t a realistic possibility then you can invest in a drain grate or screen that will collect all even the smallest of hairs.
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