Drains play a vital role in our homes. They remove waste and excess water, keeping our spaces safe and hygienic. However, a blocked drain can quickly upset the smooth functioning of your house and cause a lot of inconveniences. In Fareham, the common causes of blocked drains are varied, but understanding them is a step forward in preventing blockages from happening.
Blocked drains in Fareham are primarily due to inappropriate items and substances going down the drain. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Grease and Fat: These substances are a common problem in kitchens. When hot, they seem harmless as they are in a liquid state. However, when they cool down, they solidify, sticking to the walls of the pipes and causing blockages over time.
2. Hair: Hair is a frequent troublemaker in bathrooms. It naturally falls out while showering or when brushing in front of the bathroom mirror. These hair strands can bind with grease and other sticky substances, forming clumps that block the drains.
3. Food Waste: Discarding food waste into the sink can cause serious problems. Some pieces can quickly pass through the initial grating, but they get stuck in your pipes, accumulate, and result in a blocked drain.
4. Baby Wipes and Disposable Nappies: Unlike toilet paper, these items don’t disintegrate in water, which means they can easily block a drain. Even some products labelled as “flushable” can sometimes cause blocked drains, as they might not break down adequately.
5. Foreign Objects: Kids can sometimes flush toys or other items down the toilet. Even small objects like cotton swabs, dental floss, or tampon applicators can create severe plumbing problems.
6. Tree Roots: In gardens, the roots of trees and shrubs can infiltrate your drainage system in search of water, especially in times of drought. The roots can then grow into a substantial obstruction that blocks the drain fully or partially.
7. Broken Pipes: Drain blockages in Fareham can sometimes be due to physical issues with the drains themselves. Old, broken, or cracked pipes can inhibit the free flow of water, while collapsed pipes can halt it entirely.
Understanding the reasons behind blocked drains is key to preventing them. Here are some proactive measures that you can take:
Compost or throw away food waste instead of washing it down the sink. Avoid disposing any type of grease or oil in the sink or toilet. Make it a habit to remove and discard hair that’s collected in the shower drain. Teach children about what can and can’t be flushed down the toilet. And lastly, have your drains inspected regularly by a professional for potential issues.
Blocked drains can be more than just a nuisance. They can lead to severe structural damage, hygiene issues, and even health hazards. But with a blocked drains fareham little knowledge and proper care, you can keep the drains in your Fareham home flowing smoothly.
Remember, if a drain blockage occurs and you are unable to handle it, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. It’s better to address the issue promptly than to face larger and potentially costlier problems down the line.