Experiencing blocked drains in your lovely home or business in Tunbridge Wells could be a nuisance at the very least, and at most, could result in significant damage to your property. The unpleasant smell, the slow-down or even stoppage of water flow, and the risk of pipes bursting are just some of the difficulties that come with blocked drains. If you’re not sure how to address this problem, fear not. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can do when you come face to face with a blocked drain in Tunbridge Wells.
Understanding the Issue
Before you can address the problem, it’s essential to understand what exactly you’re dealing with. A blocked drain, simply put, is a condition where water cannot flow through a pipeline because a blockage obstructs it. Numerous elements can result in a blocked drain: flushing unsuitable materials down the toilet, such as diapers, sanitary products, or even large quantities of toilet paper; greasy and fatty substances going down the kitchen sink; or tree roots infiltrating the outdoor pipes.
Diagnosing the Problem
How can you tell if you have a blocked drain? The signs are typically clear. If your sink is draining slowly, toilet water is rising higher than normal before receding, or you are dealing with an unpleasant odour around your drains, you likely have a blockage.
Resolving the Issue
Once you’ve identified the problem, you can take the following steps:
1. Try a Plunger: Simple blockages can sometimes be resolved using a plunger. They work effectively in clearing blockages in sinks, bathtubs, and toilets.
2. Clean the Pipe: If the plunger doesn’t work, you might need to clean the pipe. Make sure to place a bucket under the pipe to catch any water or debris that falls out when you remove it.
3. Use a Snake or Hand Auger: If you’ve attempted the above steps and still have a blocked drain, a hand auger or plumbing snake could be of help. It can get to blockages further down the pipe that a plunger or basic cleaning can’t reach.
4. Use a High-Pressure Drain Blaster: This tool uses air pressure to remove the blockage and is excellent for strong, sturdy pipes.
Contact a Professional Plumber
While basic blockages can be resolve with DIY methods, it’s crucial to blocked drains tunbridgewells know when to call a professional plumber. If you’ve identified multiple blockages, severe blockages, or drain issues accompanied by leaking pipes, a professional plumber can help resolve your problem more safely and effectively.
In Tunbridge Wells, many reputable plumbing companies specialise in identifying and dealing with all types of drain blockages. They use advanced technology like CCTV drainage surveys to see inside the drains and accurately identify the problem. They can then execute a solution, which may include drain jetting, drain rodding, or even complete drain repair or replacement.
Prevention is the Best Remedy
Remember, the best way to deal with blocked drains is to prevent them. Avoid flushing non-degradable items down the toilet, regularly clean your pipes, and ensure you dispose of grease and fat appropriately instead of pouring them down the sink.
Experiencing blocked drains in Tunbridge Wells is an inconvenience. However, with a basic understanding of why it happens, how to tackle it, knowing when to call a professional, and taking preventive measures, it’s a problem you can confidently handle.
