Every household has experienced a blocked drain at one time or another and it’s safe to the the experience is not an enjoyable one. Blocked drains not only cause slow water drainage but cause bad odours too. All of these make blocked drains hard to ignore.
While clearing a blocked drain sounds good, prevention is better in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore the major differences between clearing and preventing blocked drains and why focusing on prevention will save you more time, money and stress. Read on.
Clearing Blocked Drains
Clearing blocked drains involves addressing the cause of the blockage and removing it. Blockages can be as a result of these factors, including:
- Food particles and grease buildup in kitchen sinks.
- Hair and soap residue in bathroom drains.
- Tree roots burst through outdoor pipes.
- Foreign objects like wet wipes or sanitary products are flushed down toilets.
When a blockage deteriorates, the best solution is to hire a professional blocked drain plumber. These plumbers use special tools and equipment like drain snakes, high-pressure water jets or even CCTV inspections to locate and clear the blockage. Though this is an effective method, it is usually costly and time-consuming especially if the blockage has caused damage to the main plumbing system.
Preventing Blocked Drains
Preventing blocked drains passes for a proactive approach. This proactive approach to blocked drains involves regular maintenance and consciously ensuring that the drains are clear at all times. Below is a list of preventive measures to avoid blocked drains:
- Use drain strainers to prevent debris like food particles and hair from going into the drain.
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink, as these are also major causes of blockages.
- Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste to avoid clogging the pipes.
- Ensure to hire a professional blocked drain plumber to carry out routine drain inspections to discover potential issues early.
Prevention not only reduces the likelihood of a blockage but also prolongs the lifespan of your plumbing system. Also, by minimizing wear and tear on your drains, you’re able to save money on repairs and replacement over time.
Why Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Clearing blocked drains is sometimes unavoidable, however prevention is always preferable. Here’s why:
It’s Cost-Effective
Taking preventive measures such as using strainers or regular maintenance, costs less than hiring a plumber for emergency plumbing services.
It’s Convenient
Blocked drains often happen at the worst time, affecting your regular schedule. Prevention helps you avoid these sudden inconveniences.
It Guarantees Long-Term Benefits
Regular maintenance ensures your plumbing system remains in good condition, reducing the risk of future plumbing problems.
It Promotes Good Health and hygiene
Prevention allows you to skip the process of dealing with foul odours and even pest infestations that come with a blocked drain. Prevention keeps your home cleaner and healthier.
Conclusion
Clearing blocked drains is a good solution for when your drain is blocked but it’s a short-term solution. Prevention, on the other hand, is a long-term solution that keeps your plumbing system running smoothly and saves you from unexpected stress. By adopting preventive measures and staying proactive, you can avoid the frustration of blocked drains altogether.