Concerned about the perpetual issues with your bathroom drains and pipes? As the owner of a Canterbury drainage company, I understand your frustration. Blocked drains are inconvenient and pose a significant problem filled with bacteria and unpleasant odours that affect everyone.
These nuisances are bound to occur at least once in a homeowner’s life, especially in compact bathrooms that should offer comfort and cosiness. To safeguard yourself from recurring pipe blockages, it’s crucial to grasp the root causes and find lasting solutions beyond basic drain cleaners.
Discover the six most common culprits and their corresponding remedies.
Hair Woes
Hair is the primary culprit behind blocked drains. While removing hair seems like a simple task, neglecting it can lead to severe repercussions. Hair accumulation is a common drain-clogging factor, whether it is strands falling during showers or grooming sessions near the sink.
Small amounts can be manually removed by gloved hands to prevent worsening. Drain spiders and other cleaning devices aid in extracting hair from the drain but be cautious with low-quality tools and chemicals that might exacerbate the problem. Clearing hair before it obstructs the drain entrance is crucial. Consulting a blocked drain specialist is imperative if you can’t access the hair or cleaning tools that prove ineffective.
Toiletries Troubles
Flushing toiletries down the drain has become a pervasive habit causing significant pipe and sewer issues. Nappies and wet wipes, when flushed, absorb moisture, swell, and quickly block drain access. Such improper disposal harms the environment, necessitating responsible disposal practices.
Broken Pipes
General wear and tear can lead to pipe breakage, making them more susceptible to blockages. Detecting this problem becomes challenging unless the fracture is visible. If you suspect a broken bathroom pipe, it’s wise to seek professional help equipped with leak detection and plumbing tools. Professionals will diagnose the issue, close the water flow valve, apply a pipe repair clamp, and replace the damaged section, as necessary.
Weak Water Flow
If your taps now produce weak water flow instead of the usual forceful stream, it indicates low water pressure or flow issues. Though not always related to water pipes, this can signify sediment buildup. Dissolved minerals in the flowing water settle on metal surfaces, commonly clogging showerheads, and faucet parts, reducing water pressure.
To resolve blocked drains caused by poor water flow, it’s advisable to clean showerheads and removable parts, eliminating deposits and sediments. Soaking these components overnight in a vinegar solution might help. If the problem persists, it’s best to consult a professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate solutions.
Flawed Pipe Installation
Improper bathroom plumbing can lead to costly drain blockages. While DIY approaches may save money during renovations, self-installed plumbing often results in incorrect water flow, pipe damage, and expensive repairs. Engaging a licensed plumber to install your plumbing system is highly recommended. If you’re currently experiencing issues with existing plumbing, have a professional inspect it for on-the-spot recommendations.
Unwanted Intruders
Foreign objects like children’s toys, soap, food debris, sanitary items, and electronic waste can eventually block your drain. Intentional or accidental, these materials should never be flushed down toilets or drains.
If you have small children, it’s crucial to supervise them to prevent flushing objects down the toilet as a source of amusement.
By understanding the causes of blocked drains and implementing appropriate solutions, you can maintain a well-functioning bathroom while avoiding plumbing predicaments.