Did you know that you could be partially responsible for your waterpipe drainage issues? By following these 6 steps you can minimise the risk of blockages and help keep your drains healthy this winter.
1. Be careful what you flush!
We’ve pulled all sorts out of blocked drains. From children’s toys, to a pillow case (really!), the weird and wonderful things we find in the waterworks never ceases to amaze us. Generally speaking, if it’s not a bodily fluid or in the form of loo roll, it doesn’t belong in the toilet! Things people forget can’t be flushed: sanitary products, wet wipes, nappies, cotton buds/pads and fish!
2. Toilet cistern hygiene is key.
Now, we are all for keeping a toilet fresh and smelling of “forest glaze’ or “marshmallow haze” but using cistern blocks can actually cause build up and therefore blockages! We find particularly in new-build properties because the pipes and bathroom suites used are usually smaller than the standard. If you feel the need to freshen up your cistern you can use environmentally friendly, liquid cleaners. Even then, you shouldn’t feel the need to do it more than a couple of times a year!
3. Make hot water your new best friend.
Pour hot water (like boiling hot!) down your drains once a week and it will help melt and flush away any light grease deposits. Whilst sometimes chemicals are required, maintaining good drain health with natural substances where possible is much better for the environment.
4. Try DIY unblocker before giving in to heavy chemicals!
An easy DIY pipe cleaning solution can be made from salt, and plain white vinegar! Simply pour at least one teaspoon of salt down the drain followed by 200ml of white vinegar. Let it settle for an hour (don’t use the sink in the meantime!) and then run hot water to clear it out.
5. Leave the hard work to simple gadgets.
As the famous saying goes, prevention is better than cure and it’s no different when it comes to your drains. There are loads of cool home devices out there to help take the hard work out of maintaining a healthy water system. Here are a few of our favourites:
6. Get rid of oil safely.
This is a common cause of blockages (and you may be aware of the larger problem of fatbergs that plague our larger sewage systems). If you don’t have access to a food waste recycling service, use a sealed container to hold the oil and place it in your general waste bin.
Ultimately, every drain can clog from time to time but preventing blockages in the first place can save time, money and the environment. If you’d like some free advice on keeping your drains clear or need help with a blockage contact us now on 01752 656161.
