Blocked drains can cause quite the commotion in any household, disrupting daily routines and even causing major health hazards if left unattended. This is a common issue faced by numerous households in Worthing, as a host of reasons contribute to this irritating and often overwhelming problem.
One of the main causes of blocked drains in Worthing is grease and fat buildup. When we wash off the grease and fat from our dishes down the sink, they can stick to the interior walls of the plumbing. Over time, this buildup restricts water flow, ultimately leading to a blockage. Making it worse, food particles often get stuck in this buildup, causing further obstruction. Regularly cleaning your drains to remove grease and fat is a recommended preventative measure.
Another very common reason for blockages includes the disposal of non-disposable items down the drain. Non-biodegradable products like baby wipes, diaper cloths, sanitary items, and cotton swabs can lead to severe blockages as they are not designed to break down in water. Even though some items might be marketed as flushable, it’s not always the case in real application. These items can get snagged in the drain pipes, leading to a gradual accumulation that will block the passage of water.
Hair and soap residue are also significant blocked drains worthing contributors to blocked drain issues in Worthing households. Hair, especially when mixed with soap scum, forms solid masses that can easily block drains. A hair catcher or drain screen can be beneficial in such scenarios, regularly trapping hair before it gets into your drain system.
Outdoor drains often get blocked due to leaves, garden waste, or tree roots. Fallen leaves and garden waste can collect in drain grates, preventing the free flow of rainwater. Furthermore, tree roots are highly attracted to the water in the pipes. They tend to grow towards and inside the pipes, often causing severe damage and blockages. Root intrusion is a common problem in older properties with clay drain pipes. Installing gutter guards or drain grates can help prevent these types of blockages.
Hard water can also lead to blocked drains. Certain areas in Worthing have hard water that contains a high mineral content. When hard water passes through pipes, minerals like calcium and magnesium can precipitate and start building up, gradually reducing the size of the pipe, affecting the flow, and finally resulting in blockages.
Blocked drains are also caused by structural defects in the pipework. A broken or cracked pipe can cause accumulated soil or debris, leading to blockages. Furthermore, poorly installed pipes that result in dips or bellies can collect waste, inhibiting the flow of water.
Prevention is always the first line of defence against blocked drains. Regular maintenance and checks can help identify potential blockage sites early on. Using drain screens, avoiding flushing non-disposable items, and proper disposal of grease and fats can all significantly reduce the chances of obstructed drains.
In conclusion, the most common reasons for blocked drains in Worthing range from inappropriate disposal of household waste, hard water accumulation, to structural defects in drainage systems. Understanding these can help households develop good practices to avoid such issues and maintain a smooth, functioning drainage system. When prevention fails, professional help may be required to remove the blockage and ensure the efficient operation of the drains.