Clogged drains are one of those household problems that always seem to pop up out of nowhere. One minute everything seems okay. Then suddenly, your sink or shower is slow to drain, or there’s an awful smell coming from the pipes.
When left untreated, these issues can lead to things like water damage and very expensive drain repair work. Fortunately, most clogs are preventable if you understand what causes them.
When dealing with blocked drains in Melbourne, keep an eye on these usual suspects that, if left to build up, can be a signal to call in a professional.
1. Dirt and debris
You probably don’t think twice about rinsing mud or sand down the sink or shower. But just because you can’t see it once it’s gone, it doesn’t mean it’s disappeared for good.
Over time, dirt and all sorts of debris can collect inside your pipes and cause stubborn blockages. The problem can be exacerbated by other greases, oils and soaps, which create a thick sludge that restricts water flow.
Tip: Always rinse or shake off excess dirt outside before you come into the house where possible and keep an eye on the shower and laundry drains.
2. Soap scum
Soap scum is a perhaps surprising (and often overlooked) cause of blocked drains. Bar soaps can contain fats and oils that react with minerals in the water to create stick deposits or “scum”. Over time, this substance clings to pipe walls and can bring plumbing systems to a grinding halt.
Try to use liquid soap when cleaning yourself in the shower and basin, and don’t forget to run hot water regularly for a minute or so. If you suspect a build up, don’t hesitate to book a drain inspection to see what’s really going on beneath the surface.
3. Hair
Hair is one of the biggest causes of blocked sewer pipes, especially in showers and bathroom sinks. Human hair is actually very strong and wiry, and when it binds with grease and soap, it can form a solid mass that’s hard to shift. Even regular clean products and unblockers can struggle here.
The easiest solution is to install drain screens or grates to trap these pesky hairs before they do any damage. Just remember to clean them out regularly.
4. Mineral build up
Homes in hard water areas often face more issues with mineral deposits building up in their pipes. The hard, chalky mass that’s left behind can cause serious blockages and even require full drain repairs or pipe replacements. One solution is to use water softener. You can also safeguard against slow build up by having a regular drain inspection — once every few months — to clean and stay ahead of the curve.
5. Food waste
Your sink isn’t a trash can. All food scraps should go where they’re supposed to — in the standard food waste. Any greasy leftovers from a takeaway, or scraps from home cooked meals (pasta, rice, veggies) can stick to pipe walls if you try to flush them down the sink. This can cause issues over time.
We know that not everyone is perfect in this regard, though. The best thing you can do is consistent kitchen drain cleaning with baking soda and vinegar, or professional service, to prevent problems from cropping up in the long term.
6. Toilet paper overload
You’ve all probably seen the signs in some restaurants: “don’t flush paper towels down the toilet!” There’s a good reason for this. While toilet paper is designed to dissolve in water, flushing too much is one of the most common causes of blocked sewer pipes. That’s before we get to the other items that should never be flushed, such as wet pipes, and nappies.
If the water in your toilet is too high or it drains slowly, don’t ignore it and make sure to call in a professional. The blockage may be a sign of deeper issues. Wait too long, and it could cost you lots of money and stress.
Protect your pipes with Drain Fixers
Clogs can start small but quickly turn into serious (and expensive) problems. By being mindful of what you put down your drains, you can save yourself from the hassle of extensive repairs later on.
Already battling with blocked drains in Melbourne? Act now before the problem gets worse. DrainFixers offers professional drain inspections and cleaning that will get rid of even the most stubborn of clogs. Our team has the tools and experience to get the job done, fast.
Contact us today to book your drain inspection or service.
