As a resident of Bournemouth or a prospective homeowner in the area, it is crucial to understand some of the issues that might arise related to the property such as blocked drains. A common problem, especially in older properties, blocked drains can cause significant problems if not addressed promptly. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and fixing Bournemouth’s blocked drains issue.
Firstly, let’s delve into the causes of blocked drains. These can vary from property to property, but common culprits include the accumulation of grease, hair, and food waste, tree roots penetrating and damaging the drain pipes, flushing inappropriate items down the toilet, and build-up of soaps and detergents. Other factors like poor flow of water due to poor gradients or bellied pipework, broken or fractured pipes, and inefficient drain installation can also lead to blockages.
It’s important to identify the signs of a blocked drain early, as this reduces the severity of the issue. Common symptoms include slow drainage, unpleasant odours, gurgling sounds from drains, increased level of water in the toilet after flushing, and in severe cases, water or sewage back-up. Observing these signs, especially in multiple locations, is a clear indication of a drainage problem that needs immediate attention.
Now, how do we fix such issues? Here, it gets somewhat tricky since the methods can vary based on the nature and the complexity of the blockage.
For minor blockages such as seen with food remnants, fat, grease, and small objects, chemical cleaners or manual cleaning apparatus such as a plunger could be used. Remember, it’s always essential to use protective gloves and eyewear when dealing with chemicals.
For more substantial blockages, professional assistance would be highly recommended. Bournemouth is home to several skilled plumbing and drain unblocking services that utilise high-end techniques such as drain jetting and CCTV drain surveys for blockage detection and elimination. It’s also worthwhile to ensure the company of your choice is recognised by the National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC), ensuring they adhere to industry-standard best practices.
Prevention, of course, is better than cure. You could avoid the majority of your blocked drain concerns by adhering to simple guidelines. Never pour grease or oil down the sink; instead, collect it in a container and dispose of it properly. Remember that toilets aren’t garbage bins; avoid flushing down anything other than toilet paper.
And, implement a regular drain cleaning procedure. This could be in the form of monthly drain cleaning or a preferably scheduled professional cleaning every six months to a year based on your property’s usage. It will inevitably reduce the chances of surprise blockages and prolong the longevity of your drainage system.
Where your drain condition is continually deteriorating despite prevention and removal measures, it points to a possible structural blocked drains bournemouth issue. At this point, you may need to consider drain repair or replacement. Experts in Bournemouth can conduct comprehensive CCTV surveys to get a clear view of the problem and guide you on the next steps.
In conclusion, blocked drains in Bournemouth or elsewhere, though a common problem, do not have to put a significant damper on your day. Watch out for the signs, address them immediately, employ preventive measures, and where necessary, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. The health, cleanliness, and comfort of your home depend on it.