Guide to Keeping Your Drains Clear

No matter where you live, clogged drains are a nuisance. Whether it’s in your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or a commercial pipe, the result can be damaging and expensive.Fatbergs, in particular, are a massive problem that many people are not aware of. In this article, we’ll discuss what fatbergs are, why they’re such a problem, how to recognize the signs, and the best ways to prevent and maintain a clear drain. Definition of FatbergsA fatberg is a large solid mass formed by the accumulation of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) in a sewage system. It is often made of non-flushable materials such as wet wipes and other materials that have been flushed down the toilet.These fat build-ups can be anything from small clumps to huge masses that can span multiple city blocks and are extremely difficult to remove. Why Fatbergs are a ProblemFatbergs can cause a variety of problems, including blockages in sewers and drains that can lead to flooding, an increase in water bills, and an unpleasant smell. If the pipe is not removed quickly, it can cause sewage system damage and contamination of drinking water supplies.This can be an expensive issue as it can require a professional to repair the pipes. Importance of Keeping Drains ClearIt is important to keep drains clear in order to prevent the formation of fatbergs and to protect the environment.In addition, regularly clearing drains can help to reduce water bills and prevent any unpleasant odours from entering your home or business. Causes of FatbergsFats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) The primary cause of s is FOG that is inappropriately disposed of down drains and toilets. This can include cooking oil, meat fats, dairy products, and food scraps. These materials can solidify and accumulate over time in pipelines, leading to the formation of fatbergs.Non-Flushable Materials Another major cause of fat build-up is the flushing of non-flushable materials such as cotton swabs, diapers, and sanitary products. These materials do not break down like toilet paper, and will instead accumulate and cause pipe blockages.Lack of Awareness Many people are unaware of the problems that are related to toilet blockages, pipe blockages, sink blockages, and sometimes outside gullies can cause, which is why it is so important to educate people on proper disposal habits. It is also important to ensure that drains are regularly cleared in order to prevent the formation of pipe blockage. Signs of Blocked DrainsSlow Draining Sinks If your sink is draining slow, this may be a sign that your drain is blocked. This can be caused by fatbergs and other materials that have been disposed of improperly.Foul Smells A foul smell coming from your drain is often a sign of a pipe blockage. This smell is caused by sewer gases that have been trapped due to a blockage.Gurgling Sounds Gurgling sounds coming from your drain is another sign that it is blocked. The gurgling is caused by air being released from the pipes due to the pressure of the pipe blockage, which in some cases can erupt causing significant damage and health risks. PreventionProper Disposal of FOG The best way to prevent the formation of pipe blockages is to ensure that fats, oils, and grease are properly disposed of. Instead of pouring them down the drain, they should be disposed of in the garbage.Use of Strainers Using strainers on the drains of sinks and showers can help to prevent the accumulation of FOG and other materials that can lead to toilet blockages, sink blockages, and pipe blockages.Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Materials It is important to avoid flushing down anything other than toilet paper, as this can lead to clogs. Non-flushable materials such as cotton swabs, diapers, and sanitary products should be disposed of in the garbage. Kitchen Sink MaintenanceHot Water Flushing Flushing hot water down the sink can help to break down grease and other materials that have accumulated in the pipe. This should be done regularly in order to prevent any blockages.DIY Drain Cleaners There are a variety of DIY drain cleaners that can be used to break down grease and other materials that have accumulated in the pipes. These cleaners should be used with caution and according to the directions on the label.Professional Cleaning Regular maintenance of kitchen drains should be done by a professional in order to ensure that the pipes are in proper working condition. This includes a CCTV drain inspection to check for any blockages, as well as cleaning and maintenance of the pipes. Bathroom MaintenanceRegular Cleaning Regular cleaning of bathroom drains is important in order to prevent the accumulation of FOG and other materials that can lead to blockages.Use of Enzyme-Based Cleaners Using enzyme-based cleaners on bathroom drains is an effective way to break down FOG and other materials as they are less harsh on the pipes.Professional Cleaning Regular maintenance and cleaning of bathroom drains should be done by a professional. This includes a CCTV drain inspection to check for any blockages, as well as drain cleaning and maintenance of the pipes. Commercial MaintenanceImportance of Commercial Drain Clearing It is important to regularly clear commercial drains in order to prevent the formation of fatbergs and to ensure that the pipes are in proper working condition.Regular Maintenance Checks Regular drain maintenance checks should be done by a professional in order to check for any blockages and to ensure that the pipes are properly maintained. A drain maintenance service won’t only save you money but will also avoid you suffering from unexpected blockages.Professional Drain Cleaning Services In some cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional drain cleaning service in order to clear any blockages and to maintain the pipes. Emergency ResponseSigns of a Serious Blockage If there are signs of a serious blockage such as sewage backup, flooding, or foul odours, it is important to act quickly in order to prevent further damage.When to Call a Professional In cases of a severe blockage, it is best to call a professional who can inspect the pipes using a CCTV drain inspection and clear the blockage in a safe and efficient manner.Emergency Drain Cleaning Procedures Emergency reactive drain cleaning should only be done by a professional who is trained and experienced in the procedures. This includes the use of specialized tools and equipment to respond to an emergency blockage situation by breaking down and remove any blockages. Recapping of Importance of Clear DrainsIn conclusion, it is important to keep drains clear in order to prevent the formation of fatbergs and to protect the environment.Proper disposal of FOG and avoiding the flushing of non-flushable materials are key to preventing the formation of fat build-up. In addition, regular maintenance of drains should be done in order to keep them in proper working condition.Final Tips for Avoiding Fatbergs In order to avoid pipe blockages, it is important to dispose of fats, oils, and grease in the garbage, avoid flushing non-flushable materials, and regularly flush hot water down the sink.It is also important to use strainers on sinks and showers and to have regular drain maintenance and drain cleaning to be done by a professional to keep the drains in your home and business premises free flowing from pipe blockages, bad smells, and build ups that can cause clogged drains.Call a Professional It is important to educate people on proper disposal habits in order to avoid the formation of fatbergs and the problems that they can cause.In addition, regular maintenance and cleaning of drains should be done in order to keep them in proper working condition. Are Your Drains Well-Maintained?If your drainage systems haven’t been inspected or cleaned in a while, it’s time to call a professional for regular drain maintenance. Drain 247 provides expert drain maintenance services to keep your pipes and sewers free-flowing and free from blockages. Call 0800 612 8038

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