Warning Signs to Watch Out For
Spotting a blockage early can save you from bigger headaches. Look out for these signs:
- Water draining slowly or pooling around sinks, showers, or toilets.
- Gurgling sounds coming from your drains.
- Persistent foul smells emanating from pipes.
- Fluctuating water levels in your toilet bowl after flushing.
If you notice any of these, it’s time to act.
Preventing Blocked Drains in the Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most common places for blockages to form, but a few simple steps can make a world of difference.
Use Drain Strainers
Installing a drain strainer is an inexpensive yet highly effective solution. These mesh covers catch food particles, stopping them from entering your pipes via your kitchen sink. Regularly clean the strainer to keep it functional and prevent bad smells.
Dispose of Grease and Oil Properly
Pouring grease or oil down the drain is a recipe for disaster. Once cooled, these substances solidify and stick to the walls of your pipes, gradually forming a stubborn blockage. Instead:
- Pour used grease or oil into a container and throw it in the bin.
- Wipe greasy pans with paper towels before washing.
Rinse Dishes and Pour Hot Water Weekly
Before placing dishes in the sink or dishwasher, scrape off leftover food into the bin or a compost heap. Additionally, pouring hot water down the sink once a week can help melt away any grease or fat buildup.
Preventing Blocked Drains in the Bathroom
The bathroom sink often takes the brunt of our daily grooming routines. Preventing blockages here requires a little diligence.
Catch Hair Before It Becomes a Problem
Hair is one of the main culprits of blocked bathroom drains. Use a drain cover or screen in showers and basins to trap loose strands. Clear the screen daily to prevent build-up in shower drains.
Combat Soap Scum
Soap scum forms when soap combines with hard water minerals, creating a sticky residue. Over time, it clogs drains. Regularly flush bathroom drains with a mixture of vinegar and hot water to break down soap residue naturally.
Dispose of Toiletries in the Bin
Products like cotton pads, swabs, and even “flushable” wipes should never go down the drain. These items don’t break down like toilet paper and can create hard-to-shift blockages.
Preventing Blocked Toilets
Your toilet is designed to handle toilet paper and waste—nothing else. Using it as a rubbish bin is a surefire way to create problems, blocking your toilet or even the whole sewer system.
Flush Responsibly
Even items marketed as “flushable,” like wet wipes, are not safe for your pipes. Always dispose of these in the rubbish bin, along with hygiene products like tampons and pads.
Act Quickly on Early Signs
If your toilet is draining slowly or the water level rises higher than normal after flushing, address the issue immediately. Sometimes, a plunger is enough to fix minor blockages. For persistent issues, call a plumber to prevent further damage.
Preventing Blocked Stormwater Drains
Outdoor drains are particularly vulnerable to blockages, especially during seasonal changes.
Keep Drains and Gutters Clear
Regularly remove leaves, branches, and garden debris from gutters and stormwater drains. Doing this twice a year, or more frequently during autumn, can prevent major clogs.
Install Grates and Covers
Stormwater grates are an excellent way to stop debris from entering your drainage system. Ensure they’re fitted securely and cleaned regularly.
Mind Your Landscaping
Tree roots can wreak havoc on underground pipes. Avoid planting large trees or shrubs near your home’s drainage system to minimise the risk.
General Maintenance Tips for Blocked Drains
- Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners: While tempting, chemical drain cleaners can corrode your pipes, weaken joints, and even harm the environment. For stubborn blockages, it’s better to call a professional plumber.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Plumbing inspections every 2–3 years can identify hidden issues before they escalate. Professional plumbers can offer tailored advice and ensure your system stays in optimal condition.
The Importance of Prevention
Blocked drains can disrupt your daily life and lead to costly repairs. By adopting small changes like using drain strainers, disposing of grease correctly, and scheduling regular maintenance, you can help prevent clogged drains and keep your plumbing system in great shape. Prevention is a far easier—and cheaper—way to get your drains flowing smoothly, especially when compared to dealing with a full-blown blockage.
Contact Proud Plumbing and Gas for Expert Blocked Drain Services
While prevention is key, some blockages require the expertise of a professional. At Proud Plumbing and Gas, we specialise in clearing even the most stubborn blockages and keeping your plumbing in top condition. Whether it’s a clogged sink, a slow-draining shower, or an outdoor stormwater issue, our licensed plumbers are here to help. Don’t wait for the problem to escalate—contact Proud Plumbing and Gas today for fast, reliable, and affordable plumbing solutions!
