Managing blocked drains in your home can be an exasperating and sometimes expensive task. Besides, it can be more intricate and bothersome when you live in Taunton, a large regional town in Somerset, England, considering the high humidity levels can frequently influence the plumbing works. But, worry not, as there are several practical ways to prevent and fix blocked drains in Taunton homes. This article is designed to provide you with a few helpful insights.
**Prevention:**
The old saying “prevention is better than cure” is absolutely relevant when it comes to your home’s drain system. Here are a few significant prevention measures:
**1. Be vigilant about what goes down the drains:**
Often, we are careless about what we flush down the toilet or dispose of in sinks. Items like cooking grease, hair, paper towels, and even certain soaps can lead to blockages. An emphasis should be on disposing of waste appropriately. Moreover, use drain guards in your sinks and bathtubs to catch small particles that might lead to clogs.
**2. Regular Drain Cleaning:**
Regular cleaning of your drains can prevent them from blocking. Rather than using commercial drain cleaners, which can damage your pipes in the long run, opt for a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Pour this solution down your drains, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then rinse with hot water. This can significantly help to dissolve minor clogs and keep your drains flowing smoothly.
**3. Plant Trees Wisely:**
The roots of trees and shrubs can cause serious damage to drain pipes. Plant trees well away from your drain system to prevent the roots from interfering with your pipes.
**Fixing Blocked Drains:**
blocked drains taunton
Sometimes, even with prevention, blocked drains can occur. Here are a few ways you can fix them:
**1. Plunging:**
A good old-fashioned plunger can often relieve a blocked drain. The suction can help to dislodge whatever is obstructing the drain and allow it to pass through the system.
**2. Use of a Plumber’s Snake/Drain Auger:**
If a plunger doesn’t work, you can employ a plumber’s snake. This tool is beneficial for more stubborn clogs. It works by physically pushing or grinding through the obstruction, cutting through it.
**3. Hydro Jetting:**
For severe scenarios, hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to remove the blockage. However, DIYing this method is not suggested because of the device’s intensity, which may harm your pipes if not used correctly. Consider taking the help of a professional plumber in this case.
**Professional Help:**
Without a doubt, you can easily manage minor blockages. However, for more serious incidents or recurring problems, a professional plumber is your best bet. Professional drain cleaners have the tools, knowledge, and experience to handle any drain problem, and they can diagnose and treat the issue quickly and efficiently.
In conclusion, by employing the above strategies in your Taunton home, you can successfully prevent and fix blocked drains. Don’t let the drainage concerns drain you down; handle them smartly and keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly.