A well-functioning waste and drainage system is an essential element of any Bedford home. However, blocked drains can become a recurring issue that disrupts the smooth functioning of your household routine. The problem often starts as a minor inconvenience but can quickly escalate into a major issue requiring professional help. Thankfully, some preventive measures can reduce the risk of blocked drains. This article serves as a comprehensive guide for Bedford residents on preventing blocked drains.
The first step to preventing blocked drains is understanding what causes them. Common causes include accumulation of hair, grease and fat, food waste, small objects, and leaves or garden debris. By being aware of these, you can work toward implementing strategies to keep such materials out of your drains.
1. Install Drain Grates:
Invest in good-quality drain grates for your sinks and shower drains to prevent hair, food, and other particles from going into the drainage system. Drain grates act as a shield, trapping debris that could build up within your pipes and eventually causing a blockage. Regularly clean these grates to ensure their efficiency.
2. Mindful Disposal of Cooking Oils and Grease:
Remnants of cooking oils and grease are notorious for clogging drains. When such substances cool down, they solidify and serve as a trap for other materials, resulting in blockages. Instead of washing away fats and oils down the drain, consider discarding them in a sealable container and disposing of it with regular garbage.
3. Proper Disposal of Food Waste:
Even with a garbage disposal unit, certain food items can still cause blocked drains. Some of these include coffee grounds, tea leaves, eggshells, and fibrous foods like celery and corn husks. Therefore, it is advisable to throw most food waste in the blocked drains bedford compost bin instead of washing it down the sink.
4. Regularly Clean Your Drains:
Maintenance is key when it comes to preventing blocked drains. Even when there is no apparent blockage, periodic cleaning can go a long way in preventing buildup inside the pipes. Natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and baking soda, followed by hot water, can work great as a regular drain cleaner. However, avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that can damage your pipes over time.
5. Utilize a Plunger:
For minor clogs, using a plunger can be an effective way to clear the blockage before it becomes serious. Remember to use the right type of plunger: sink plungers for sinks and toilet plungers for toilets.
6. Clear Exterior Drains and Gutters:
Often, exterior drains and gutters get blocked with leaves and garden debris, especially during autumn. Regularly clearing out this debris can prevent blockages that could result in damage to your home through flooding.
7. Consider Professional Inspections:
If your home is prone to blocked drains, an annual or semi-annual professional inspection would be a good idea. Plumbers use specialized equipment to inspect your system for any potential issues and can perform a thorough clean to resolve any upcoming problems.
Avoiding blocked drains may require a bit of attention and effort, but it is far less expensive and less time-consuming than dealing with an actual blockage. By adhering to these simple preventive steps, Bedford residents can enjoy the benefits of a smoothly functioning drainage system while preventing a lot of unnecessary distress and inconvenience.