Facing the issue of blocked drains is all too common a problem to be seen in households everywhere, including in Stevenage. It can be both a major inconvenience and a potential health hazard, with the unwanted stench, dirt, and germs associated with it. However, don’t panic. Here are quick tips to respond effectively to such a troublesome situation of blocked drains in Stevenage.
1. Start with Basic Tools
When you are dealing with blockages in drains, one of the first things you can do is plunge. A plunger can easily remove minor clogs and is easy to use. All you need is to place the plunger above the drain and push down and up rapidly until the water starts draining. Plungers can easily handle minor blockages caused by food residues or small particles.
2. Apply a Homemade Solution
If the blockage is stubborn and doesn’t clear with the help of a plunger, it’s time to use a homemade solution. Mix 1/3rd of a cup of baking soda and the same amount of vinegar and pour the mixture into the blocked drain. Wait for around an hour or so and then rinse with hot water. The fizz created will help to loosen the grime and dirt, thereby removing the blockage. This environmentally friendly method can often be a go-to for easy and safe unclogging.
3. Use a Plumber’s Snake
Another highly effective tool for unclogging a blocked drain is a plumber’s snake. This tool is essentially a long flexible metal rod that can be pushed down the drain to displace the clog. The rod is either manually or mechanically turned to move around bends in pipes and to break apart the blockage.
4. Chemicals and Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners
In case the blockage is not cleared by the above two methods, consider using a chemical drain cleaner or an enzyme-based drain cleaner. They can dissolve hair, grease, food, or other common debris that’s causing the drain blockage. However, be sure to use these products sparingly as overuse can harm your pipes in the long term.
5. Professional Plumbing Services
In the scenario where the problem persists, it might be beyond the capacity of usual DIY tips. You are not out of options though. It is advisable to call in plumbing professionals who have the knowledge, equipment, and experience to handle major blockages and related plumbing problems.
In Stevenage, we are fortunate to have many reputable, professional plumbing services available to support us. Make sure to choose a company with positive reviews and good customer service.
6. Prevent Future Blockages
To avoid having to face this problem again, there are some preventive measures that anyone can implement. Do not allow food scraps, oils, or grease to go down the sink. In your bathroom, use drain guards to catch hair and other particles that may cause blockages. Regularly clean your drains using blocked drains stevenage vinegar and baking soda to prevent build-up and hence, blockages.
Handling blocked drains in Stevenage does not need to be overwhelming. With these handy quick tips, you can take immediate action and even prevent blockages in the future. However, always remember, there is no shame in calling in professionals when the job is too big. The key is to take action and not let the problem escalate into a full-blown plumbing emergency.