Unblocking a drain is a common issue in most households and business establishments. It can cause massive inconveniences, especially when left unattended. An understanding of the process of effective drain unblocking prepares you to handle the problem when it arises and helps you appreciate the importance of professional drain unblocking services. Having some understanding of how the process works will not only save you a lot of time and money, but it can also prevent a minor problem from escalating into a catastrophic plumbing disaster.
So, how does one embark on the process of efficient drain unblocking?
Usually, the first sign of a blocked drain is water pooling around the area following a shower or bath, or the sink may take longer to empty. When that’s ignored, one may later find sewage backing up and flowing back into the house. That’s definitely a problem you don’t want to deal with.
The first step to unblocking a drain is to identify what’s causing the blockage. The clog may range from clumps of hair, grease, soap, or even small toys. The blockage can be easily detected in the U-bends under sinks, and with the right tools, the blockage can be pushed or pulled out. At times, the blockage might be deeper, and getting a professional’s help is unavoidable.
For minor blockages, using a plunger can be a simple DIY solution. This tool uses air pressure to dislodge whatever is causing the blockage. By placing the plunger over the drain and pressing down, creating a vacuum then pulling up forcefully, the pressure change can dislodge the blockage. However, remember always to cover overflow vents before starting as air might escape through it.
A plumber’s snake or coil is another useful tool that is typically used for tougher clogs. The flexible coil is forced down the pipe and rotated, breaking up the blockage inside. It can reach farther than a plunger, making it effective for stubborn blockages.
To avoid damaging your drains, it is crucial you abstain from using chemical drain cleaners. The chemicals in these cleaners can corrode pipes, leading to leaks and major repairs down the line. Instead, you may opt for a bio-degradable and non-corrosive option like baking soda and vinegar.
When dealing with major blockages, professional help is always the best way to go. Plumbing companies have a wide array of specialist tools to handle any drain-blocking eventuality. They can also accurately locate any hidden blockages using CCTV drain surveys.
Professional plumbers have an understanding of the different drain systems and will put the necessary precautions in place to ensure no additional damage occurs. They can break up large obstructions, flush out the system, or replace a portion of the pipe if needed.
In conclusion, knowing how to effectively unblocks drains ensures that your plumbing system works optimally for the longest possible time. A proactive approach to maintaining your drains not only extends its lifespan, it also saves you money and time while preventing potential disasters like flooding and sewage overflow. So, here’s to efficient and effective drain unblocking!