How Do Drain Unblockers Work in Cumbria?

Introduction

Clogged or blocked drains are some of the most challenging issues that homeowners and businesses face. Leave the issue unattended, and it could lead to substantial damage not just to the building but also to your health. When experiencing a blocked drain, you may decide to take on the problem yourself, but in some cases, the aid of professionals is required. Drainage Cumbria is a company located in Cumbria, North West England with expertise in drain unblocking, cleaning, and repairs. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of drain unblocking, the types of drain cleaners, and how they work.

Understanding Drains and Drainage Systems

Before delving into the specifics of drain Unblockers, it is vital to understand the role and function of drains in plumbing systems. Drains are used to lead waste and water away from buildings, usually to a sewage system or septic tank. The drainage system comprises an intricate network of pipes, including the main soil pipe, stack pipe, and branch pipes that link drains to the system.

Causes of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are caused by various factors, including flushing non-decomposable materials such as baby wipes, sanitary products, cooking grease, and food particles down the toilet, sink or shower. Tree roots can penetrate pipes leading to blockages, and in some cases, pipes corrode, leading to blockages. Damage caused by natural disasters such as floods or landslides, and poorly installed pipes, leading to an acute angle or incorrect alignment, can also cause blockages.

Types of Drain Cleaners

There are various types of drain cleaners used in unblocking clogged drains, including chemical and mechanical cleaners.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners work by breaking down the blocked material using chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid. The chemicals are poured down the drain, where they react with the clogged substance, converting it into a liquid state that can be easily flushed away.

However, while chemical cleaners are effective, they can damage pipes and cause environmental pollution. It is also essential to use them safely following the manufacturer's instructions and wearing protective gear such as gloves and goggles.

Mechanical Drain Cleaners

Mechanical drain cleaners, on the other hand, are devices used to remove blockages physically. They include handheld drain augers, also known as drain snakes or pipes, which are put down the drain until they reach the blockage. The auger is then turned, drilling into the blockage, and once the clog dislodges, it can be flushed away.

Internal pipe cutters are also used to cut through tree roots and remove damaged sections of pipes. Water jetters are also used in mechanical cleaning, where water is blasted under pressure into the blocked pipe to dislodge the debris. Mechanical cleaners are considered safer than chemical cleaners since they do not cause environmental pollution, and they are safe for pipes.

Homemade Drain Cleaners

Homemade drain cleaners are made from items found in the home, such as baking soda and vinegar, which are known for their cleaning properties. They are considered safe alternatives to chemical cleaners for people who are environmentally conscious.

To create a homemade cleaner using vinegar and baking soda, pour half a cup of baking soda into the blocked drain, and follow it up with a cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, dislodging the clog, and create a cleaning solution. Once the mixture settles, pour hot water down the drain to flush away any remaining debris.

How Drain Unblockers Work

Drain Unblockers use various techniques and tools to remove blocked drains, and the choice of the unblocker largely depends on the cause and severity of the blockage.

Physical Removal

The first step that Drain Unblockers use is physical removal, which involves removing the debris using mechanical drain cleaning tools such as pipes or augers. Physical removal is used when the blockage is caused by solid materials such as a buildup of hair, food particles, or sanitary products. The drain Unblocker will use the mechanical tool to dislodge the blockage and physically drag it out of the drain.

Water Jetting

Water jetting is another method used to unblock drainages by high-pressure water injection into the clogged drain. Water jetting is ideal for soft blockages such as those caused by tree roots or grease that may have accumulated inside the pipes. As water is blasted in the pipe, the force dislodges the debris, and the high-pressure water flushes it away.

Chemical Treatment

Chemical treatment is used in severe blockages or those caused by solid substances that cannot be removed by mechanical means. Chemical treatments include pouring chemical cleaners into the blocked drain, which reacts with the clog, breaking it down, and turning it into liquid form for easy flushing.

Conclusion

Blocked drains can be a source of stress and damage to buildings if not attended to promptly. Drainage Cumbria is a drain Unblocking company located in Cumbria, North West England, with expertise in various methods of unblocking clogged drains. Drain Unblockers use mechanical and chemical methods to remove blockages, while some people prefer homemade solutions like vinegar and baking soda. It is essential to maintain drainage systems to avoid blockages caused by flushing inappropriate materials or poorly installed pipes. In case of a blocked drain, calling a professional Drain Unblocker is the ideal solution, and Drainage Cumbria is the company to call. You can contact Drainage Cumbria at 01228 734162 or visit their website at www.drainagecumbria.uk for more information.