Blocked drains are one of the most common problems for homeowners in Yeovil. When a drain gets blocked, it can cause foul odours, leaks, and even structural damage to your property if not resolved promptly. This article will examine the top causes for blocked drains in Yeovil and provide insights that will help you prevent such issues in the future.
1. Fat and Grease Build-Up
The most common cause for blocked drains in residential properties is the build-up of fat and grease in the drains. Even though grease and fat are liquid when you pour them down the sink, they solidify when they cool down, causing an obstruction in the pipes. The blockages can worsen over time, leading to slow water drainage or complete blockage.
2. Hair
Hair is another common cause of blocked drains, not just in Yeovil but worldwide. Every time you take a shower or brush your hair over the sink, hair strands can end up in your drains. Over time, they bond blocked drains yeovil with grease and other substances to form clogs.
3. Tree Roots
Tree roots can also cause major drainage problems. Trees in your backyard may infiltrally underground drainage pipes in search of water, particularly in dry weather conditions. Once inside, they can cause blockages, leaks, and other significant damage.
4. Foreign Objects
This might sound strange, but small items like toys, bottles caps, or sanitary products frequently cause blocked drains. In most cases, these objects are accidently or deliberately flushed down the toilet or dropped in the drain, leading to an immediate blockage.
5. Dirt and Leaves
In areas with a large number of trees, such as Yeovil, blocked drains are often caused by an accumulation of leaves, dirt, and other debris. Especially in autumn, drained can get easily clogged with fallen leaves. And even more so, if there are insufficient or inadequate guttering and drain guards.
6. Poor Installation or Aged Pipes
Another significant cause of blocked drains in Yeovil is poor installation or aging pipes. Pipes installed incorrectly can cause frequent clogs. Similarly, pipes that are old and corroded can easily break or collapse, resulting in severe blockages.
7. Heavy Rainfall or Storms
Yeovil often experiences heavy rainfall, especially in the winter months. This can lead to soil displacement which may infiltrate the drainage system causing blockages.
8. Incorrectly Connected Appliances
Sometimes appliances like dishwashers and washing machines could be incorrectly installed, which means their waste isn’t being expelled correctly. This mistake can result in blockages in the drainage system.
Preventing Blocked Drains
While some causes of blocked drains, like tree roots invasion or heavy rainfall, are out of control, others can be prevented by simple precautions. Fat and grease from cooking should never be poured down the drain. Instead, let it solidify and dispose of it in the bin. A mesh screen over drains can prevent hair and other objects from getting into your pipes. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your drains can also keep them running smoothly.
Understanding what causes blocked drains can help homeowners in Yeovil to prevent and tackle these issues before they escalate into serious problems. However, if you’re dealing with stubborn blocked drains, it’s best to call in a professional plumber who has the best knowledge and tools to ensure your pipes are clean and running smoothly.