Blocked drains are one of the most common household emergencies experienced in Windsor and indeed, around the world. Having to deal with a blocked drain is not just annoying and inconvenient, but it can also be quite a health hazard if left untreated for a prolonged period. This short but instructive article provides you with an overview on what causes blocked drains in Windsor and what precautions can you take to prevent it.
One of the most frequent causes of blocked blocked drains windsor drains is – perhaps not surprisingly – the disposal of inappropriate items into the drain system. This can happen both in kitchen and bathroom drains. In the kitchen, the culprits are usually fat, oil, and grease, colloquially referred to as the ‘FOG’. When washed down the sink, these substances tend to cool and solidify within the pipes. Over time, they build up like cholesterol in arteries, and eventually, block the pipes.
Bathrooms, on the other hand, are often victims of the flushed ‘unflushables’. Items such as nappies, baby wipes, sanitary products, or even excessive amounts of toilet paper, are not meant to be disposed of down the toilet. They fail to disintegrate and can easily lodge in the pipes, causing blockages.
Tree roots are another common reason behind blocked drains in Windsor. The intrusion of these roots into drain pipes can cause not just obstructions but significant damage to the drainage system too. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture in the drain pipes, and they can exploit even the tiniest leak or crack to gain access. Once inside, they grow and spread out, causing the pipes to block, break, or collapse in severe case.
Hair is another factor that commonly leads to blocked drains. It might seem harmless when a few strands go down the drain with the bathwater or when you’re washing your hair, but over time, it accumulates. The hair can stick to the inside of the pipes, gradually forming a ball that eventually blocks the drain.
Food debris is also a significant contributor to blocked drains in kitchens. Small bits of food might slip down the plughole when you’re washing the dishes or while preparing meals. Like oil and grease, this debris accumulates in the drains over time and can result in severe blockages.
Blocked drains in Windsor are also commonly caused by heavy rains and storms. Such weather events can lead to an overflow of leaves, dirt, and other debris, which can block drains, cause backups, and even lead to flooding.
One less common but still significant reason for blocked drains is poorly installed or old pipe work. The usage of improper pipe materials, wrong installation techniques, or a lack of appropriate maintenance can lead to pipe dislodgement, deformation or corrosion which can inevitably lead to blockages.
As homeowners or residents, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid these situations. Regular professional drain inspections and cleaning are one of the best ways to prevent blockages. It’s also good practice to become more mindful about what goes down our drains by discarding waste properly.
Finally, just remember, if you’re facing severe blockage issues, it’s always recommended to call in professional help. Trying to force the blockage free can end up causing more damage to your pipes. Instead, let the experts handle it for you while you keep an eye on preventing further blockage.
Keeping our drains flowing smoothly requires a collective effort. When we all do our part, we can avoid most blocked drain situations and maintain a healthier and more functional drainage system in our homes in Windsor.