Can Dishwasher Tablets Block Drains In Cumbria?

Are you experiencing blocked drains in Cumbria? At Drainage Cumbria, we understand that blocked drains can cause a lot of disruption and inconvenience, and that's why we are here to provide you with fast and effective drainage solutions. While we deal with all kinds of blocked drain problems in Cumbria, one question we often get asked is whether dishwasher tablets can block drains.

In this article, we aim to address this question comprehensively and provide you with all the information you need to prevent blocked drains caused by dishwasher tablets.

The Problem with Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are a common problem in homes and businesses in Cumbria. They can be caused by a variety of things including bones, rice, and other food debris. However, one of the lesser-known causes of blocked drains is dishwasher tablets.

When dishwasher tablets dissolve, they can create a thick, soapy residue that can build up in your drains over time. This buildup can lead to blockages that prevent water from flowing freely down the drain.

Why Do Dishwasher Tablets Block Drains?

Dishwasher tablets contain a range of chemicals that can contribute to the buildup of residue and the consequent blockage. These chemicals include surfactants, builders, enzymes, and bleaching agents.

Surfactants are used in dishwasher detergent to break down grease and dirt, making them easier to remove from dishes. However, when these surfactants combine with water, they can create a dense foam that can accumulate in your drains.

Builders are added to dishwasher detergents to soften water, which can help the detergent to work more effectively. However, builders can also produce a hard residue that can cause blockages in your drains.

Enzymes are added to dishwasher detergents to break down proteins and other food residues. While enzymes can be highly effective in cleaning dishes, they can also cause residue buildup in your drains.

Bleaching agents are added to dishwasher detergents to whiten and brighten dishes. However, these agents can also create a chemical reaction that leads to residue buildup in your drains.

Dishwasher Tablets Vs. Other Foods

While dishwasher tablets can cause blockages in your drains, they are not the only culprits. Other food items that commonly cause blockages in Cumbria include bones, rice, bits of food debris like peas and noodles, and even grains.

Peas and grains tend to settle in your drainpipes and create an obstruction that can prevent water from flowing through. This can result in stagnant water which can create foul odours.

Rice is another common cause of blockages in drains. When rice is cooked, it swells up and can easily get stuck in your pipes. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of residue in your drains.

How to Prevent Blocked Drains

At Drainage Cumbria, we believe that prevention is always better than cure. To prevent blocked drains caused by dishwasher tablets and other debris, consider the following solutions:

• Avoid Using Too Much Detergent: Using too much dishwasher detergent can cause an excessive amount of suds to build up in your drainpipes. As a general rule, use no more than two tablespoons of detergent per wash cycle.

• Use Alternatives to Dishwasher Detergent: If you're concerned about the build-up of dishwasher detergent in your drains, consider using an alternative form of dishwasher detergent such as tablets or a liquid detergent.

• Keep your Drainpipes Clean: Regular cleaning of your drainpipes can help prevent the buildup of residue and prevent blockages caused by things like rice and bones.

• Dispose of Garbage Correctly: Try to avoid putting food waste down the drain (use a garbage disposal instead). This can help to prevent the accumulation of residue and other food debris.

• Cleaning Schedule: Consider scheduling a regular cleaning of your drains to remove accumulated grease, dirt, and other debris that may be contributing to blockages.

• Disassemble Where Necessary: If you find that there is a blockage in your drain, consider disassembling the drain to remove the blockage. While this may require the help of a professional, it can help prevent future blockages.

How Drainage Cumbria Can Help

At Drainage Cumbria, we have over 15 years of experience providing comprehensive drainage services in Cumbria and the North West of England. We understand the potential problems that can be caused by blockages, and we have the expertise necessary to provide you with fast and effective solutions.

If you are experiencing blocked drains in Cumbria, contact us today at 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected]. Alternatively, visit our website drainagecumbria.uk to learn more about the wide range of drainage services we offer in Cumbria.