Causes of Blocked Drains
By Fluid Plumbing|August 20, 2018
If you have ever experienced a blocked drain, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only that, but it can also put you at risk of further damage, especially if a pipe cracks or breaks. Read on to learn about some of the most common causes of blocked drains.
Roots
Tree roots are incredibly strong and can puncture through the sides of your pipes. When you plant a tree, its roots will eventually spread out as far as its branches do, meaning that they cover a lot of area. When planting trees in your garden, be sure to take into consideration how the tree will grow in the future. What may not be a problem today could become a serious issue down the track.
Cooking Grease
You've probably heard many times that you should never pour used cooking grease down the drain. It is surprising how many people still do this even though they know they shouldn't. As the grease cools, it solidifies, and this can lead to a blockage in your pipes. Instead, save your cooking grease for preparing future meals or wait for it to congeal before throwing it in the bin.
Hair
This is more of an issue for people with long hair, though short hair can build up in your drains over time. Be sure to clean out your drain periodically, or install a drain catcher to prevent the hair from getting into your pipes. There is not much you can do to stop your hair from shedding, especially in the shower, so you need to be vigilant about cleaning.
Toiletries
Feminine products in particular, like tampons and sanitary napkins, are notorious for blocking drains. Their wrappers can cause blockages as well. These items should always be thrown in the rubbish, not down the toilet. Cotton balls, ear swabs and other personal care items can become lodged in your pipes as well, so avoid flushing these whenever possible.
Foreign Objects
If you have children, make sure they are aware that toys and other items should not go in the toilet. Kids enjoy watching the items swirl around as the toilet flushes so take the time to tea them that this is not acceptable behaviour.
Clear Your Drain Blockage Today
For help with drain blockages in your home or business, call on the experts at Fluid Plumbing Services. We can get your pipes flowing smoothly again in no time!
Roots
Tree roots are incredibly strong and can puncture through the sides of your pipes. When you plant a tree, its roots will eventually spread out as far as its branches do, meaning that they cover a lot of area. When planting trees in your garden, be sure to take into consideration how the tree will grow in the future. What may not be a problem today could become a serious issue down the track.
Cooking Grease
You've probably heard many times that you should never pour used cooking grease down the drain. It is surprising how many people still do this even though they know they shouldn't. As the grease cools, it solidifies, and this can lead to a blockage in your pipes. Instead, save your cooking grease for preparing future meals or wait for it to congeal before throwing it in the bin.
Hair
This is more of an issue for people with long hair, though short hair can build up in your drains over time. Be sure to clean out your drain periodically, or install a drain catcher to prevent the hair from getting into your pipes. There is not much you can do to stop your hair from shedding, especially in the shower, so you need to be vigilant about cleaning.
Toiletries
Feminine products in particular, like tampons and sanitary napkins, are notorious for blocking drains. Their wrappers can cause blockages as well. These items should always be thrown in the rubbish, not down the toilet. Cotton balls, ear swabs and other personal care items can become lodged in your pipes as well, so avoid flushing these whenever possible.
Foreign Objects
If you have children, make sure they are aware that toys and other items should not go in the toilet. Kids enjoy watching the items swirl around as the toilet flushes so take the time to tea them that this is not acceptable behaviour.
Clear Your Drain Blockage Today
For help with drain blockages in your home or business, call on the experts at Fluid Plumbing Services. We can get your pipes flowing smoothly again in no time!
