Blocked Drains North West

Drain Unblocking Wirral

Blocked drains can be a major inconvenience, causing foul-smelling odours, slow drainage, and in severe cases, even flooding.

In order to prevent blockages from occurring, it is important to understand the common causes of blocked drains.

One of the most common causes of blocked drains is the accumulation of foreign objects. People often flush things down the toilet or wash items down the sink that should not be there.

Common examples include wet wipes, sanitary products, cooking grease, and food scraps. These items can accumulate in the drain, causing a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely.

Another common cause of blocked drains is the build up of debris. Over time, dirt, hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the drain, narrowing the passage for water to flow through. This buildup can be exacerbated by hard water, which contains minerals that can leave deposits in pipes.

Tree roots can also be a cause of blocked drains. Trees and shrubs can grow around or near drainage pipes, with their roots gradually invading the pipes in search of water. Once inside the pipe, the roots can continue to grow and expand, eventually causing a blockage.

Blocked drains can also be caused by structural issues, such as collapsed or damaged pipes. Over time, pipes can become worn or corroded, leading to cracks, holes, or even collapse. These issues can prevent water from flowing freely through the pipes, leading to blockages.

Poor installation can also be a cause of blocked drains. If pipes are not installed correctly, or if the wrong materials are used, they can be prone to blockages. For example, pipes that are not sloped correctly may not allow water to flow freely, leading to blockages.

Finally, weather can also be a factor in causing blocked drains. Heavy rain, snow, or other extreme weather conditions can overwhelm drainage systems, causing blockages to occur. This can be particularly problematic in areas with poor drainage infrastructure or in older properties with outdated drainage systems.

Local Areas Covered

Blocked Drain Prevention

In order to prevent blocked drains from occurring, there are several steps that can be taken. One of the most important is to be mindful of what is flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink.

Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet, and avoid washing cooking grease or food scraps down the sink.

Regular maintenance can also help prevent blocked drains. This includes flushing drains with hot water and vinegar or baking soda, which can help break down any buildup of debris or grease. Regular inspections by a professional drain unblocking company can also help identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

In areas where tree roots are a potential issue, it is important to be mindful of planting locations. Trees and shrubs should be planted away from drainage pipes, and regular inspections should be carried out to ensure that roots are not invading the pipes.

In cases where blocked drains have already occurred, there are several steps that can be taken to resolve the issue. One of the most common methods is to use a plunger to create suction and dislodge the blockage. Chemical drain cleaners can also be effective, but care should be taken when using these products as they can be harmful to pipes and the environment.

For more stubborn blockages, professional drain unblocking services may be required. These services use specialized equipment, such as drain snakes or hydro-jetting, to clear the blockage and restore proper water flow. In cases where there are structural issues or damage to the pipes, repairs may be required.

Signs of a Blocked Drain

In addition to preventative measures, it is important for homeowners to be aware of the signs of a blocked drain. These include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, unpleasant smells and water backing up into sinks or toilets. If any of these signs are present, it is important to take action to prevent the issue from becoming more severe.

Regular inspections by a professional drain unblocking company can also help identify any potential issues before they become major problems. A professional drain unblocking service can perform a CCTV inspection of the drainage system to identify any issues, such as root invasion or structural damage, that may be contributing to blockages.

In cases where blocked drains are a recurring problem, it may be necessary to make changes to the drainage system. This could include installing a backflow prevention device or a sump pump to prevent flooding, or replacing outdated or damaged pipes with new ones.It is also important to be mindful of the environmental impact of blocked drains. Chemical drain cleaners, while effective at removing blockages, can be harmful to the environment and should be used sparingly.

Professional Drain Unblocking Services

Here at RPD we have the experience, tools, and expertise to quickly and effectively unblock drains. Here are some of the techniques and methods that professional companies use to unblock drains:

1. CCTV Drain Inspections One of the first steps that a professional drain unblocking company will take is to perform a CCTV inspection of the drainage system. A small camera is inserted into the drain, allowing the technician to see inside the pipes and identify any issues that may be causing the blockage. This method allows for a quick and accurate diagnosis, which can save time and money in the long run.

2. Drain Snakes A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that is used to clear blockages in the drain. The snake is inserted into the drain and manipulated to break up and dislodge the blockage. Drain snakes come in various sizes and can be used for different types of blockages.

3. Hydro-Jetting Hydro-jetting is a technique that uses high-pressure water to clear blockages in the drain. A specialized machine pumps water through a hose and into the drain, creating a powerful jet that can break up even the most stubborn blockages. Hydro-jetting is effective for removing debris, roots, and other blockages that may be difficult to clear with other methods.

4. Chemical Drain Cleaners Chemical drain cleaners can be effective for clearing minor blockages, but care should be taken when using them. These products can be harmful to pipes and the environment, and should only be used as a last resort. Professional drain unblocking companies will use chemical drain cleaners sparingly and only when necessary.

5. Excavation and Pipe Repair In cases where there is severe damage to the pipes, excavation and pipe repair may be necessary. This involves digging up the affected area of the drain and replacing or repairing the damaged pipes. This method is typically more expensive and time-consuming than other methods, but may be necessary for more severe blockages.

6. Root Cutting If tree roots are causing the blockage, root cutting may be necessary. This involves using a specialized tool to cut the roots and remove them from the pipe. The roots are then cleared away and the drain is flushed to ensure that water is flowing freely.

7. Backflow Prevention Devices In areas where flooding or sewer backups are a concern, backflow prevention devices may be installed. These devices prevent water from flowing back into the drainage system, reducing the risk of flooding or sewer backups.

Preventative Measures

In addition to these methods, we also offer preventative maintenance services to help prevent future blockages. This can include regular drain cleaning, CCTV inspections, and tree root removal.

We have a team of trained technicians who are knowledgeable about the latest techniques and equipment for unblocking drains.

We use a range of methods and techniques, including CCTV inspections, drain snakes, hydro-jetting, chemical drain cleaners, excavation and pipe repair, root cutting, and backflow prevention devices.

Homeowners can benefit from preventative maintenance services offered by professional companies, which can help prevent future blockages and ensure the drainage system is functioning properly.

We can also offer advice and guidance on how to prevent blockages from occurring in the first place. This can include tips such as being mindful of what is flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink, avoiding the use of chemical drain cleaners, and scheduling regular inspections and maintenance.

It is important for homeowners to recognize the benefits of using a professional drain unblocking company when faced with a blocked drain. Attempting to fix the issue oneself can often lead to more severe damage or recurring blockages. By hiring a professional company, homeowners can be assured that the issue will be resolved quickly and effectively, with minimal disruption to their daily lives.