Blocked drains can create serious sanitary issues in homes and businesses across Kettering, England. They are not just an inconvenience, but they can be a potential health hazard too. Identifying the common causes can save valuable time and money on expensive repairs, while also promoting responsible waste disposal. Here are some frequent triggers of blocked drains in Kettering.
One of the main culprits is the accumulation of fat, oil, and grease (FOG). While frying food is a common practice in most households, pouring the leftover materials down the drain can lead to the formation of fatbergs in the sewer network. These can be rigid and difficult to break, obstructing the normal flow of water.
Hair shedding during showers is another common cause for blocked drains. A single strand of hair may seem insignificant, but when combined with grease, they can knit together to form a substantial blocked drains kettering blockage in the pipes. It is also applicable to pet hair which might wash down the bathroom drains during pet baths.
Food waste, particularly coffee grounds and tea leaves, can clog up drains over time. Coffee grounds tend to stick to the inside of the pipes, accumulating slowly until they form a complete blockage. Similarly, tea leaves can bulk up and solidify to cause an obstruction.
Next in line are hygiene products, including wet wipes, sanitary products, and dental floss. Although some of these are labelled as being “flushable”, they often do not break down as quickly or fully as toilet paper, leading them to form blockages in the narrow parts of the drainage system.
How we manage our gardens can also contribute to blocked drains. Fallen leaves, small stones, and dirt can gather in exterior drains, preventing rainwater from draining away efficiently. Additionally, the roots of trees and larger plants can infiltrate pipes and cause further issues.
Lastly, plumbing defects can obstruct the regular water flow. These defects may include poorly fitted pipes with misaligned joints, corrosion, or damage due to ground movement. Also, poor water pressure can cause the waste to stagnate and eventually block the drainage system.
Awareness about these common causes of blocked drains can go a long way towards effective maintenance. One key preventive measure is the use of sink strainers, which can catch larger food particles, preventing them from getting washed down the drain.
Think twice before you decide to flush any non-dissolving items down the drain like wipes or sanitary products. And remember to regularly clean exterior drains, especially during the autumn season when leaves are falling. For kitchens, it is recommended to dispose of FOG appropriately, ideally by storing in a container and then throwing away with your normal rubbish.
Professional help should be sought in case of severe blockages or persistent issues, as attempts to remove these blockages could potentially cause more damage. An annual maintenance check can keep your drainage system running smoothly and efficiently. In Kettering, numerous reliable drainage services are available to assist home and business owners in dealing with blocked drains.
In conclusion, blocked drains are a common problem in Kettering, often caused by a variety of factors like the accumulation of inappropriate waste, natural debris, and plumbing defects. By implementing preventive measures and timely interventions, it is possible to minimize these disruptive incidents. Regular educational awareness about responsible waste disposal can make a positive difference towards creating a healthier and cleaner Kettering.