Top 10 Reasons For Blocked Drains In Manchester

Top 10 Reasons for Blocked Drains in the UK

Blocked drains are a common problem in the UK, and they can be a real nuisance. They can cause water to back up, foul smells, and even flooding. There are a number of things that can cause blocked drains, but the following 10 are the most common:

1. Fat, oil, and grease (FOG). FOG is a major cause of blocked drains, and it’s something that can be easily prevented. When you cook, try to avoid using too much fat, oil, or grease. If you do use some, make sure to cool it down and then pour it into a container that can be disposed of properly. Never pour FOG down the drain.
2. Baby wipes. Baby wipes are another common cause of blocked drains. They’re designed to be flushable, but they don’t break down in water like toilet paper does. Instead, they just build up in the pipes and eventually cause a blockage. If you have to use baby wipes, be sure to throw them away in the trash.
3. Food waste. Food waste is another common cause of blocked drains. When you wash food waste down the drain, it can stick to the sides of the pipes and eventually cause a blockage. Try to compost your food waste or throw it away in the bin. Also make sure you scrape left-over food into the bin before placing the plates into the dishwasher.
4. Hair. Hair is another common cause of blocked drains, especially in showers and bathtubs. When hair gets washed down the drain, it can wrap around itself and other objects, forming a blockage. To prevent this, try using a hair catcher in your shower or bathtub drain.
5. NOT Toilet paper. While toilet paper is designed to be flushed down the toilet, other types of paper are not.  Kitchen roll for instance might make a reasonable emergency alternative for toilet paper, but contains plastic strands within the paper to make it more absorbent. Whilst great for the kitchen, it isn’t good for your drains as it won’t break down and will cause blockages.
6. Foreign objects. Sometimes, foreign objects can get flushed down the toilet or washed down the drain. These objects can include anything from toys to jewelry to sanitary products. If a foreign object gets stuck in your drain, it can cause a blockage that can be difficult to remove. If you think you’ve flushed a foreign object down the toilet, call us right away.
7. Tree roots. If you have trees near your home, their roots can grow into your sewer lines and cause blockages. This is a more serious problem, and it’s one that you’ll need to have a company like Clear Drains North West come and fix.
8. Build-up of sediment. Over time, sediment can build up in your drains, causing them to clog. This sediment can come from a variety of sources, including dirt, sand, and limescale. To prevent this, have your drains professionally cleaned on a regular basis.
9. Improper installation. If your drains are not properly installed, they’re more likely to clog. This is something that should be done by a professional, and it’s something that you should check if you’re having problems with your drains.
10. Damaged pipes. If your pipes are damaged, they’re more likely to clog. This can happen due to age, wear and tear, or even from a sudden impact. If you think your pipes might be damaged, call a plumber right away.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent blocked drains in your home. If you do experience a blocked drain, don’t try to fix it yourself. Call us to arrange a call-out for a professional drainage service that is guaranteed to last!