The age-old saying, prevention is better than cure, has never been more appropriate when applied to blocked drains. However, there are moments when we forget to scrap the additional food waste from the pot before rinsing it down the kitchen drain or carelessly washing our hair down the bathroom sink. These common reasons for blocked drains can lead to… well, a blocked drain.
If you’ve done all of the above and suspect you have a blocked drain, it’s best to tackle the problem as soon as possible. Leaving a clogged drain for too long can lead to more harmful problems, such as pests and damaged pipes.
If you suspect you have a blocked drain, but you’re not sure, here are a few early warning signs to watch out for:
Lingering Smell
This is probably the most obvious sign that you have a blocked drain. Remember those pieces of food you washed down the kitchen sink? Food waste and other debris get stuck in your pipes and will eventually start decomposing. This leads to the unpleasant smell you’ve been sniffing every time you use your sink and can be an obvious sign your drain is getting blocked.
Slow Drainage
Slow drainage may not seem like a big deal at the moment, but it can snowball into bigger problems down the line. Whether you’ve noticed your kitchen sink, bath or shower drain emptying slower than usual, everyday debris or particles have the potential to build up over time, leading to your drain becoming completely clogged. To avoid spending more than you should, contact the professionals to check out your pipes before it stops draining completely.
Strange Noises
Your home is not haunted. Those strange noises emanating from your sink are just early warning signs that it’s time to contact the experts. You may notice gurgling or other odd noises coming from your pipes as air finds itself trapped as the water struggles to make its way through your plumbing system. When this happens, it’s a good idea to contact an expert to help you identify the cause of the blockage.
Nothing Works
A telltale sign that it’s time to call the professionals is when traditional shop-bought products don’t seem to work. A toilet plunger, natural remedies such as vinegar and baking soda or store-bought products can be great methods to help with a minor blockage. However, if you find that these products don't do the trick, you may have a more intense blockage, and you'll need to call the professionals.
The Solution
A blocked drain can be a major frustration for many homeowners, but it doesn’t have to be if you take preventative measures. Keep your eyes peeled for these early warning signs and ensure you take the necessary steps to address any drainage issues that may cause you problems in the future.
Get in touch with the experts at Clearpath Drainage today to find out how we can help ensure your plumbing systems remain in immaculate condition.