Avoiding blocked drains is not just about saving you from unnecessary inconveniences. It is also about preventing potential damage to your property and potentially hefty repair costs in the long run. Whether it’s a residential or commercial property in Southampton, maintaining smooth flowing drains is crucial to protecting the durability and functionality of your plumbing system. Here are some expert tips to prevent blocked drains from occurring.

1. Avoid Dumping Grease or Oil down the Drain

Discarding cooking oils or grease down the sink is one of the leading causes of blocked drains in many Southampton homes. These substances can solidify within the pipes over time, effectively reducing the pipe’s interior width and making it easier for other items to accumulate and cause blockages. To avoid this, dispose of your cooking grease in a separate container and discard it with your regular waste.

2. Be Mindful of What You Flush

In the bathroom, only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Other items such as baby wipes, sanitary items, cotton buds, paper towels, and even excessive amounts of toilet paper can easily cause blockages. Make it a habit to dispose of these items in a bin instead of flushing them.

3. Install Drain Guards

Drain guards are excellent tools for preventing unwanted debris from entering blocked drains southampton your drain. They’re particularly helpful in kitchen sinks and bathroom drains, where they can catch food particles, hair, soap bits, and other potential clog-causing items. Remember to regularly clean these guards to ensure their effectiveness.

4. Regular Professional Cleaning

Occasionally, it’s worth getting your drains professionally cleaned. Experts can use specialized tools and techniques to thoroughly remove any build-up within your pipes before it turns into a severe clog. They can also identify potential problem areas early, saving you from bigger problems down the line.

5. Be Wary of Plants and Trees

Plant and tree roots can infiltrate your plumbing system in search of water and nutrients, causing serious blockages and even pipe damage. By positioning trees and large plants away from your pipe system, you can minimize this risk. If you can’t control the placement of plants due to a pre-established garden design, regular rooter service from a professional is advisable to keep the roots at bay.

6. Use drains for water only

One of the most simple and effective tips is to only use drains for what they’re intended: water. The fewer items or substances that you expose your drains to, the less chance there is of a clog occurring.

7. Regular Inspection

Regular inspection of your drains and sewer lines can help catch any issues before they turn into bigger problems. This is particularly important for older properties with potentially outdated plumbing systems. Hiring a professional to conduct a CCTV drain survey can be very helpful in these cases, as they can accurately pinpoint any issues within the system.

By following these expert tips, one can significantly reduce the risk of blocked drains in your Southampton home. Remember, prevention is better than cure – taking these steps will save you from significant hassle and expense in the long-term.