Your home is your sanctuary and maintaining the smooth functioning of all the services, particularly those related to water and heating, is of utmost importance. While problems may occur unexpectedly, proper care and preventive measures can spare you the pain and inconvenience of dealing with blocked drains. If you live in Kettering and are challenged with this issue, take heed. This expert advice will guide you on how to avoid blocked drains in your Kettering home.

First and foremost, know your drains. Understand the structure of your drainage system. Typically, it includes sink drains, bathtub and shower drains, toilet drains, and floor drains. Each of these has unique attributes and, therefore, requires an individual approach in terms of prevention actions.

Sink Drains: Usually, the blockage in sink drains is a result of grease, food debris or small objects falling into them. To avoid this, rinse your sink drain with hot water every few days to melt away the grease that could accumulate. Also, use a sink strainer to prevent food remains from going down the drain and always throw away kitchen waste in the garbage bin rather than down the sink. Regularly cleaning your drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can further prevent blockages.

Bathtub and Shower Drains: Hair and soap scum are the culprits in most cases of bathtub or shower drain blockages. To tackle this, consider installing a strainer in your shower or tub drain to catch hair and soap residue. Make it a routine to remove the blockage manually every week to keep the drain working smoothly.

Toilet Drains: Human waste and toilet paper are the only things that should be flushed down the toilet. Keep a bin close by for disposing of things like baby wipes, sanitary items, cotton wool,-plastic wrappers, etc., that can easily block the toilet drain.

Floor Drains: Dust, dirt and other debris can easily block the floor drains in basements or laundry rooms. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help to avoid such blockages.

In many cases, prevention is better than cure, and this is especially true when it comes to potential plumbing disasters. Here are some additional expert advice to consider:

Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners: These harsh chemicals can deteriorate your pipes over time, leading to leaks and other serious issues. Instead, consider using biological drain cleaners or enzyme-based cleaners which are safer and more environmentally friendly.

Be Careful with Trees and Plants: Plant roots can infiltrate your drains causing significant blockages. Keep trees and large plants away from your drain lines or select slow-growing plants that have less aggressive root systems.

Conduct Regular Inspections: Make it a habit to inspect your drains regularly for slow drainage, unpleasant smells, or gurgling noises. These signs indicate potential blockages, allowing you to sort the problem before it escalates.

Lastly, it is advisable to arm yourself with a reliable, professional plumber in Kettering who you can call when things go south. They will not only fix the current problem but can also give regular maintenance checks to ensure there are no major issues waiting to cause havoc.
blocked drains kettering
To conclude, caring for your drainage system is just as critical as looking after any other part of your house. Using these preventive measures can help you avoid the inconvenience and cost associated with blocked drains in your Kettering home and make your everyday life more comfortable.