One blocked drain is enough to frustrate any homeowner, but multiple clogs may have them running for the hills. When a home has multiple clogged drains, it could signify a serious issue with the drainage system, which needs to be addressed immediately.
Before the experts arrive, here are a few things to keep in mind when dealing with multiple blocked drains:
Identify The Problem
Think of your plumbing system as a tree with its branches. You have a main sewer line, and from this line, many pipes branch off into various parts of your home, allowing water to flow freely.
For example, if one section of this system becomes blocked, you may find that the water in your bathroom drains slowly. In contrast, if multiple pipes are clogged, you may notice slow drainage in both your kitchen and bathroom sinks.
If you notice one or more of your drains are clogged, the first step is to walk around your home and investigate. You might observe a pattern, such as two rooms opposite each other experiencing slow drainage or backups simultaneously, indicating that the issue may be related to a shared pipe.
Try Basic Remedies
Before calling the professionals, it’s always great to assess the situation further. Trying simple plumbing remedies allows you to gauge the severity of the clog. If plunging works, you know it’s a minor blockage.
Here are a few home remedies you can try:
Plunge: Use a plunger on each drain to loosen the blockages. Ensure the plunger is firmly over the drain and create consistent pressure to help release the clog.
Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water down your drains can be a great way to release grease buildup and soap scum. However, if you have a porcelain sink or toilet, you may want to let it cool for a minute before pouring it down your pipes.
Vinegar and Baking Soda: The chemical reaction from baking soda and vinegar can help break down mineral deposits from buildup, helping unblock minor clogs.
However, if these methods don’t do the trick, you know you’re dealing with a more serious plumbing problem.
Causes for Multiple Drain Clogs
Not sure what’s contributing to your plumbing nightmare? Here are a few reasons multiple drains on your property could be blocked:
Tree Roots: Blockages caused by invading tree roots are common in the UK, especially in areas with mature trees. Because tree roots grow towards moisture, these roots can grow around your main plumbing system, causing blockages.
Buildup: We’ve said it before: you should never pour grease down your drains! This oversight can lead to unwanted buildup as the grease cools and clings to your pipes. Over time, it attracts other debris, eventually causing a clog in your plumbing system.
Collapsed Line: A collapsed drain can be the result of cold weather, age, or your pipes becoming entangled in tree roots. No matter the reason, it can wreak havoc on your home, causing multiple fixtures to clog.
Outdated Plumbing System: Many homes in the UK, especially older properties, have outdated plumbing systems that suffer from frequent clogs. This can sometimes result in multiple blockages.
Call a Professional Plumber
Calling a professional plumber is a great way to save yourself from a full-blown panic attack. Trained professionals are equipped to handle various plumbing situations and have the tools to diagnose and fix the problem in minutes.
If you’re looking for reliable plumbing professionals, the Clearpath Drainage team is ready to help you unblock your toilet, sink, shower - or all three - in no time! No matter the time of day, our emergency call-out option ensures you’ll never have to panic the next time you have a blocked drain.
Get in touch with us today!
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