What To Put Down a Blocked Drain in Cumbria

Blocked drains are a common problem in households across Cumbria. Whether its a clogged sink, shower, or toilet, a blocked drain can cause a lot of hassle and inconvenience. Its important to know what you can and cannot put down your drains to prevent blockages from occurring.

At Drainage Cumbria, we are a team of experienced professionals who provide expert solutions for all your blocked drain needs. Our services extend throughout Cumbria and other areas in North West England.

Drains and Water

First and foremost, its important to understand the basic functioning of your drains. Drains are primarily responsible for carrying waste and excess water away from your home. While they may seem like a simple system, any blockage can cause major problems.

Water is the main compound used in flushing away the waste and excess material in your drains. However, certain substances can interfere with the flow of water and cause blockages. Hence, its important to ensure that you do not pour anything that can cause a blockage down your drains.

How to Get Rid of Blockages

If your drain is blocked, there are ways to remove it yourself. However, its important to note that DIY methods may not always work, and a professional plumber may be needed.

If you choose to tackle the problem on your own, here are some methods to try:

• Pour hot water down the drain: Boiling water can help break down and loosen the blockage. However, it should only be used on metal pipes, as it can cause damage to plastic pipes.

• Use a plunger: A plunger creates suction and pressure to unblock the drain. Its important to use a clean plunger that is specifically designed for sinks or toilets.

• Vinegar and baking soda: A mixture of vinegar and baking soda can help break up the blockage. Pour the baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before flushing it down with hot water.

Insurance

If you find that the blockage persists or cannot be removed using the above methods, its important to contact a professional plumber. At Drainage Cumbria, we are insured and can provide expert plumbing services in Cumbria.

To Pour or Not to Pour

One of the primary ways that blockages occur is through improper disposal of materials down the drain. Certain substances should never be poured down the drain, as they can cause blockages that can be difficult to remove. Here are some items that should never be poured down the drain:

• Grease and oil: Even though they appear liquid, oils and grease can solidify and cause blockages.

• Food scraps: Hard items such as bones, corn cobs, and fruit pits should not be poured down the drain. They can get stuck and cause blockages.

• Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds stick together and can form a solid mass that can block your pipes.

• Hygiene products: Feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, and other hygiene products should not be flushed down the drain. They can get stuck and cause blockages.

How to Keep Your Drains Clear

Prevention is always better than cure. One of the best ways to avoid a blocked drain is to take preventative measures. Here are some ways to keep your drains clear:

• Use a strainer: A strainer can be placed over your sink or shower drain to catch any debris before it enters your pipes.

• Run hot water: Pouring hot water down your drains periodically can help keep them clear.

• Regular cleaning: Having your drains cleaned by a professional can help remove any buildup that can cause blockages.

The Magic 10

At Drainage Cumbria, we recommend the use of the magic 10 method to help keep blockages at bay. The magic 10 refers to 10 simple steps that can help keep your drains clear:

• Only flush bodily waste and toilet paper down the toilet.

• Dispose of oils and grease in the trash, not down the drain.

• Use a strainer on your kitchen sink and shower drains.

• Pour hot water down the drain every week.

• Only put softer food items down the garbage disposal.

• Dont pour coffee grounds down the drain.

• Dont flush baby wipes, hygiene products, or feminine products down the toilet.

• Have your drains cleaned regularly by a professional.

• Use a plunger or vinegar and baking soda when a blockage occurs.

• Always contact a professional plumber if you are unsure about how to fix a problem.

Conclusion

Blocked drains can be a nuisance, but they can also cause significant damage and expense if left untreated. At Drainage Cumbria, we provide expert solutions to all your blocked drain needs. If you need advice or assistance, please give us a call on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected]. Remember, with the right care and attention, you can help prevent blockages from occurring in the first place.