Blocked drains are a common problem throughout the UK, and Exeter is no exception. Many homeowners and business owners in this beautiful city experience this unpleasant situation, causing considerable disruption and inconvenience. In this article, we will examine the potential causes of blocked drains in Exeter and explore practical solutions to mitigate these problems.

Causes of Blocked Drains

1. Unsuitable Items: One common cause of blocked drains is the disposal of unsuitable items down the drains. This includes food waste, oil and fat, hair, sanitary products, baby wipes, diapers, and small toys. These items do not decompose or move along the pipes, causing significant blockages.

2. Tree Roots: Exeter’s leafy areas mean there are plenty of trees, and their roots can penetrate the sewage pipes, resulting in clogs. Tree roots grow towards the pipes because they provide them with the nutrients and water that they need.

3. Minerals and hard water: In certain areas of Exeter, the hard water can cause mineral buildup in pipes. Over time, such hard mineral deposits can solidify leading to a drain blockage or even pipe damage.

4. Broken or Misaligned Pipes: Blocked drains can also be caused by physical damages to the pipe, such as cracks or misalignments due to weather, aging, tree root intrusion, or human error during installation.

Solutions for Unblocking Drains

1. Plungers: A simple and traditional method for unblocking drains is using a plunger. It can be helpful for minor clogs. However, it may not be effective on serious or persistent blockages.

2. Drain Snakes and Augers: Home plumbing kits typically include a drain snake or auger. This tool is a flexible rod that can be forced down a pipe to dislodge a blockage.

3. Chemical Drain Cleaners: They are generally used when physical methods have failed. These powerful substances should be used with caution as they are not suitable for all types of pipes, and may be harmful to the environment.

4. Professional Help: For serious blockages or recurring problems, professional help should be sought. Drainage companies in Exeter have specialist equipment and experienced teams to efficiently deal with blocked drains. These include high-pressure water jetting units, CCTV Drain surveys, and root cutting equipment.

Preventing Blocked Drains in Exeter

Prevention is always better than cure, as is blocked drains exeter the case with blocked drains. Simple strategies such as regular cleaning of your pipes, avoiding the disposal of inappropriate items down the drain, and regular professional inspections can help keep your drains in prime condition.

Exeter residents should also consult a professional before planting trees close to drain lines, and should consider installing gutter guards and strainers on all downpipes, which will reduce the chance of leaf and debris build-up in the pipes.

In summary, blocked drains in Exeter are caused by various factors including the disposal of inappropriate items, tree root intrusion, hard water, and faulty pipes. While methods such as using a plunger, a drain snake, or a chemical drain cleaner can address minor issues, persistent blockages require professional intervention. By practicing a preventative approach and with regular professional check-ups, many of these issues can be avoided or dealt with before becoming problematic.