The drainage system is an integral part of every home, especially in Harrow, a large suburban town in the north-west of London. When it functions properly, it’s easy to forget about. But when it malfunctions, it can cause immense inconvenience. One such common issue is a blocked drain. This article highlights the common causes and the effective solutions for blocked drains in Harrow.
Blocked drains are not only annoying but can also cause more critical problems like water leaks, structural damage, and unsanitary conditions if they are not addressed immediately.
The most common causes of blocked drains include:
**1. Disposing of inappropriate items:** This is by far the most likely cause of blocked drains in Harrow. Many items that frequently end up in drains are not designed to go down pipes. This includes cooking grease or oil, food, wet wipes, hair, coffee grounds, paper towels, and female hygiene products.
**2. Hair build-up:** A common cause of bathroom drains getting blocked is hair. When hair mixes with other sticky substances, it forms a blockage that prevents water from draining away.
**3. Tree roots:** For properties with a lot of greenery, the roots from large trees can work their way in and around your pipes, eventually leading to blockages.
**4. Broken Pipes:** Drainage pipes often break due to movement in the ground, bad construction, or simply wear and tear. The broken sections can cause obstructions, leading to drain blockage.
Luckily, blocked drains can be fixed with a few simple solutions. However, the approach used will depend on the severity of the blockage.
**1. Hot Water:** For minor blockage, hot water can be an effective solution. The heat can break down or loosen the substances causing the blockage. However, avoid using this method on PVC pipes as they can soften or deform.
**2. Plunging:** A drain plunger can also be utilized effectively for most minor blockages. It works by creating a vacuum that sucks the obstruction out of the drain.
**3. Cleaning Products:** There are loads of dedicated drainage cleaning products available in Harrow that can be used to clear out blocked drains. However, over-reliance on these products can damage your pipes, especially if they’re old or made from certain materials.
**4. Drain Snakes and Augers:** These tools can help dislodge more stubborn blockages. They work by being pushed down the drain and twisting to break up the blockage.
**5. Professional drain cleaners:** Sometimes a blockage can be too severe for simple home solutions, requiring the expertise of a professional plumber. In Harrow, there are a multitude of exceptional plumbing companies to turn to for assistance.
Prevention is paramount when it comes to blocked drains. Always remember to dispose of waste correctly, regularly clean your drain and pipes, and perform routine checks on your drainage system. Avoid putting items down your drain that are not designed to be flushed away.
If the blockage persists even after you have tried all the possible solutions, it is essential to call a professional plumber. Dealing promptly with a blocked drain can prevent more serious damage from occurring.
In conclusion, the common causes of blocked drains in Harrow range from everyday waste to natural elements such as tree roots. While there are several at-home solutions to try, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber when the problem becomes complex. Regular maintenance and mindful waste disposal can help prevent blocked drains harrow such issues in the future.