Causes of Drain Blockage
No one likes to deal with clogged drains, but unfortunately it is something that every homeowner will inevitably face at one time or another. Before you can tackle a clogged drain, you first need to understand how it happened in the first place. One of the most common causes of a drain blockage is an accumulation of debris, such as hair, soap scum, or even food. This debris tends to build up over time until it eventually blocks the flow of water. Another common cause of clogged drains is tree roots. As trees grow, their roots can spread throughout your drainage pipes and end up causing blockages.
How to Fix a Clogged Drain
If you recognize the signs of a clogged drain, the best course of action is to address the issue head-on and take steps to Solve the problem. The first thing you should do is try to unclog the drain yourself by using a plunger or a plumber’s snake. If this doesn't work, you can also try using a harsh chemical drain cleaner, although this should be avoided if possible as it can corrode pipework and damage your plumbing.
The last resort is to contact a professional plumber who can clear the blockage and address any underlying issues. Professional plumbers will have the specialist tools and knowledge to quickly and safely pinpoint and fix the blockage. It is important to bear in mind that plumbers will often have to access the area behind walls or floors to locate the source of the blockage, so it is recommended that you employ a qualified plumber who is skilled and experienced.
Why You Should Not Ignore a Clogged Drain
Ignoring clogged drains is a mistake which every homeowner should avoid. Here are three reasons why:
- Ignoring clogged drains can lead to expensive repair bills. As the blockage builds up, it can start to damage your pipes, leading to costly repairs. The longer you leave it, the worse the damage can become and this could mean a large bill to repair the damage.
- Clogged drains can cause unpleasant odors. If you have a build-up of debris, soap scum, or food waste, these can start to decompose and cause an unpleasant smell in your home. Not only is this unpleasant but it can also attract pests such as insects, making the situation worse.
- Clogged drains can affect your home's water pressure. As the blockage worsens, it can restrict the flow of water and lead to low water pressure in the home. Not only can this affect your daily activities, such as showering and washing dishes, but it can also lead to higher water bills as you use more water to cope with the low pressure.
In summary, ignoring a clogged drain can lead to a variety of problems, from expensive repair bills, unpleasant odors, to low water pressure. If you recognize the signs of a clogged drain, it is important to take action and address the issue as soon as possible. Doing this will help to prevent more serious issues from developing in the future.
