Let’s talk about something that can cause a lot of trouble at home—clogged drains. They’re not fun, right? A slow-draining sink or a completely blocked pipe can ruin your day. What’s surprising is that many of these clogs come from everyday habits we don’t think twice about. If you live in Newport, where older homes and charming coastal properties are common, drain clogs can be even more frequent. So, let’s dive into what could be causing the problem.
1. Pouring Grease Down the Drain
You’ve just finished cooking and there’s leftover grease. It’s easy to pour it down the sink, but that’s a big no-no! Grease hardens as it cools, sticking to the inside of your pipes. Over time, it builds up and blocks the flow of water. Instead, pour grease into a container and throw it in the bin once it solidifies.
2. Flushing the Wrong Things
Toilets are for waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Flushing items like wet wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, or sanitary products can block your pipes quickly. Even if a product says it’s “flushable,” it might not break down as it should. Play it safe and keep a bin nearby.
3. Hair in the Shower
This one’s a biggie! When you shower, hair inevitably goes down the drain. It clumps together over time, creating a stubborn clog. Using a drain catcher can save you from having to deal with slow-draining water or a complete blockage.
4. Food Scraps in the Kitchen Sink
You might think your kitchen sink can handle small food scraps, but those bits of rice, pasta, or coffee grounds can cause major blockages. Use a sink strainer to catch food particles, and scrape plates into the bin before rinsing.
5. Overloading the Garbage Disposal
If you have a garbage disposal, you might think it can handle anything. However, fibrous foods like celery, potato peels, and banana skins can jam the blades. Even worse, they can clog the pipes further down the line. Feed the disposal small amounts at a time and run water while using it.
6. Ignoring Regular Drain Maintenance
In areas, where homes can have older plumbing systems, regular maintenance is key. Neglecting to clean drains or check for early signs of clogs can lead to bigger problems down the road. A quick annual check-up by a professional trusted plumber can save you a lot of trouble.
(scroll below the image for more info on blocked drains & how to prevent the same)
Preventing Blocked Drains: How Tree Roots Affect Your Drainage System?
If you live in a lovely area like Newport, where trees and greenery are part of the charm, this might be something you’ve already dealt with or could face in the future. Let’s break it down in simple terms!
Why Do Tree Roots Go After Your Pipes?
Tree roots are clever and relentless when it comes to searching for water and nutrients. If there’s a tiny crack or weak joint in your pipes, roots will find their way in. Once they get inside, they grow, feeding off the water and organic material in your drains. Over time, this growth can block your pipes or even cause them to burst.
Signs That Tree Roots Are Causing Problems
You might not see the roots, but they’ll definitely make themselves known:
- Slow Drains: If water is taking forever to drain, it could mean roots are clogging your pipes.
- Bad Smells: Roots trap debris, causing unpleasant odours to waft back into your home.
- Frequent Backups: If your toilet or sink backs up regularly, roots might be the culprit.
- Unexplained Puddles: Patches of water in your yard could mean a pipe is leaking underground due to root intrusion.
What Can You Do About It?
If tree roots have taken over your pipes, it’s time to call a professional. Plumbers have special tools like cameras to inspect your pipes and identify the root problem (pun intended!). Solutions might include:
- Hydro Jetting: A high-pressure water jet clears the roots and debris from your pipes.
- Pipe Relining: A no-dig method that repairs damaged pipes by adding a durable lining inside them, blocking future root intrusion.
- Pipe Replacement: In severe cases, replacing the affected pipe might be necessary.
Preventing Tree Root Problems
Prevention is always better than a costly repair. Here’s what you can do:
- Choose Trees Wisely: When planting, pick trees with less invasive roots and plant them far from your pipes.
- Regular Maintenance: Have a plumber inspect your drains periodically to catch root problems early.
- Barriers: Root barriers can be installed to keep roots away from your pipes.
Tree roots are a sneaky but common cause of drainage problems. The good news is that with a bit of prevention and the help of a reliable plumber, you can keep your pipes in top shape. If you suspect tree roots might be causing trouble, don’t wait—call a plumber near you right away!
(scroll below the image for more info on blocked drains & how to prevent the same)
Preventing Blocked Drains: Tips for Maintaining Your Drains Year-Round
Whether it’s the kitchen sink, bathroom drains, or outdoor gutters, a little care can save you from big headaches (and bills). Here are few handy tips:
1. Watch What Goes Down the Drain
This might seem obvious, but what you let go down your drains makes a huge difference.
- In the kitchen: Avoid pouring grease, oils, and food scraps down the sink. Use a strainer to catch bits of food.
- In the bathroom: Keep hair, soap scum, and other debris out of your shower drain by using a simple drain catcher.
2. Regularly Clean Your Drains
It doesn’t take much to keep your drains clean. Pouring a kettle of boiling water down your kitchen sink once a week can help break down grease and fat buildup. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to naturally clean and deodorise your drains.
3. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
It’s tempting to grab a bottle of drain cleaner when there’s a clog, but these chemicals can be harsh on your pipes over time. Stick to natural solutions or call a plumber if the clog doesn’t clear.
4. Don’t Ignore Slow Drains
If you notice water draining slower than usual, don’t wait for it to become a full-blown blockage. A plumber can quickly assess and fix the problem before it worsens.
5. Maintain Outdoor Drains
Leaves and debris can easily block outdoor drains. Make it a habit to clear gutters and outdoor grates regularly, especially in autumn when trees shed their leaves.
6. Schedule Professional Inspections
Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, hidden problems like tree roots or pipe corrosion can mess with your drains. Having a professional inspect your plumbing annually can catch these issues early, saving you time and money.
Maintaining your drains doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple habits and regular checks, you can keep your plumbing in tip-top shape all year long. If you’re in any of these areas – Newport, Williamstown, Yarraville, Footscray and need a hand with stubborn clogs or just want to get your drains professionally inspected, don’t hesitate to call a local expert. A little care now can save you a lot of hassle later. 😊💧