Dangers of Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are a common plumbing problem that can cause serious health and environmental risks if left untreated. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the dangers of blocked drains and how to prevent them.
Blocked drains can cause a variety of issues, including:
Flooding: When water cannot flow freely through the pipes, it can overflow and damage your property, furniture, appliances, and belongings. Flooding can also create electrical hazards and mould growth, which can affect your health and safety.
Sewage backup: When the wastewater from your sinks, toilets, showers, and washing machines cannot drain properly, it can back up into your home or business. Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemicals that can cause infections, diseases, and allergies. Sewage backup can also emit foul odours and attract pests, such as rodents and insects.
Pipe damage: When the blockage is caused by solid objects, such as hair, grease, food scraps, or sanitary products, it can create pressure and friction in the pipes. This can lead to cracks, leaks, bursts, or corrosion in the pipes, which can compromise the integrity of your plumbing system and require costly repairs or replacements.
Environmental pollution: When the blocked drain affects the stormwater system, it can prevent rainwater from reaching the natural waterways. This can cause flooding in the streets and erosion in the soil. Moreover, when the blocked drain affects the sewer system, it can cause sewage to overflow into the rivers, lakes, or oceans. This can contaminate the water sources and harm the aquatic life.
How to prevent blocked drains?
- Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. Dispose of items such as wipes, diapers, tampons, cotton buds, dental floss, and paper towels in the trash bin instead.
- Avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down the sink. Let them cool down and solidify before throwing them in the garbage. You can also use a strainer to catch any food particles that might clog the drain.
- Clean your drains regularly with natural methods, such as baking soda and vinegar, hot water and salt, or a plunger. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes or harm the environment.
- Hire a professional plumber to inspect and maintain your drains at least once a year. They can use specialised tools and techniques to clear any blockages and fix any issues before they become worse.
- Blocked drains are not only a nuisance but also a hazard. By following these tips, you can keep your drains clear and your home or business safe and healthy.
Regular Drain Maintenance
Regular drain maintenance is an essential part of home maintenance that is often overlooked by homeowners. It plays a crucial role in keeping your plumbing system functioning properly and avoiding costly repairs down the line. Regular drain maintenance can help prevent clogs, backups, and other plumbing issues that can be costly and inconvenient to fix. It can also help to prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system by reducing the risk of leaks, pipe damage, and even burst pipes.
