Blocked drains can be a recurring nightmare for residents of Reading, UK. It impedes the normal flow of water, causing overflow, backflow, nasty odours, and could even lead to property damage in extreme cases. it may seem overwhelming when you find your kitchen sink or bathroom drain clogged, but fret not! We’ll guide you on how to tackle blocked drains in Reading right away.
First things first, prevention is always better than cure. Being mindful of what goes down the drain might prevent most blockages. Keep an eye on items like hair, grease, paper products, food scraps, or anything non-biodegradable which are common culprits for a blocked drain.
However, if you’ve got a blocked drain on your hands already, here are some ways you can deal with it.
1. Use a Plunger: This is the go-to method for unclogging sinks, toilets, or bathtubs. The plunger creates a vacuum that can dislodge the blockage allowing the water to flow freely.
2. Plumbing Snake: If the plunger doesn’t work, a plumbing snake or a drain rod can be effective. Push it down the drain, twisting and turning to catch the blockage. This might be a bit messy but can be very effective.
3. Natural Solutions: For a less drastic measure, use everyday household items such as baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Wait 15-20 minutes, then rinse with hot water. The chemical reaction helps break down the clog.
4. Chemical Treatments: Only use this as the last resort and ensure to follow safety instructions. These products can be extremely corrosive and harmful to both the environment and your draining system.
If your personal efforts don’t work to unblock the drain, calling a professional should be your next step, especially if it’s a major blockade. The blocked drain could be a symptom of a larger problem such as collapsed or damaged piping.
In Reading, there are numerous professional services available to tackle blocked drains. The professionals come equipped with advanced tools and techniques. CCTV drain surveys are often used for major blockages to ascertain the nature and location of the blockage. From high pressure water jetting to vacuum tankers, they can effectively deal with the blockage and even offer advice on preventing it from happening again.
When deciding to hire a professional, consider factors like their experience, customer reviews, response time, and the cost of their services. Most companies offer 24-hour services, proving very useful for emergencies.
In conclusion, dealing with a blocked drain might initially seem overwhelming, but it can often be tackled easily when approached correctly. Start off by trying the plunger or a plumbing snake, and then perhaps try natural unclogging solutions. If those methods fail, consider calling in the professionals. They can not only rectify the blocked drains reading current issue but also advise you on how to prevent future blockages.
Remember, prevention will always be the most efficient solution. So, be mindful of your usage and be quick to act at the first sign of a blocked drain. A swift response can prevent any further damage and save you a lot of time and hassle in the longer run when faced with blocked drains in Reading.