Blocked Drains in Chichester – Causes, Prevention, and What to Do

Blocked drains in Chichester can cause inconvenience and disruption to daily activities in homes, offices, and businesses. Let’s face it, it’s an unwelcome interruption. These are common plumbing problems that require immediate attention to avoid serious damage to the property and health hazards to occupants.

In this article, we will discuss the causes, prevention, and solutions for these unwelcome blockages to help small businesses keep their properties safe and functional whilst minimising disruption.

Causes of Blockages

Blockages can be caused by various factors, including:

• Foreign objects: Foreign objects such as toys, toiletries, and food particles can clog the drain pipes and cause blockages. These objects can get stuck in the pipes and prevent the smooth flow of water.
• Hair: Hair is one of the most common causes of blocked drains, especially in bathrooms. Hair strands can accumulate in the drain pipes and create a barrier that restricts the water flow. It’s completely normal for this to happen and we can’t recommend regular maintenance for this highly enough.
• Grease and fat: Grease and fat from cooking can also cause blockages in kitchen drains. These substances can solidify in the pipes and reduce the space for water to flow. A real pain in commercial kitchens.
• Tree roots: Tree roots can grow into underground pipes and cause blockages. This is a common problem for properties with trees planted near the drainage system and it can cause challenges as the years go on.
• Poor installation: Poor installation of pipes and plumbing fixtures can also cause blockages. This can happen if the pipes are not aligned correctly or if there are gaps that allow debris to accumulate. A CCTV survey can help identify some of these areas.

Remember the rule: Prevention is always better than cure

Prevention is (and always has been) better than cure when it comes to managing blockages. Here are some preventive measures that small businesses can take to avoid blocked drains in Chichester:

• Dispose of waste properly: Ensure that all waste, including food particles and toiletries, is disposed of correctly in the trash bins. Do not flush anything down the toilet that is not designed to be flushed, as this can cause blockages.
• Use a drain cover: Install a drain cover in your sinks and showers to catch hair and other debris that can cause blockages. This will prevent these substances from getting into the drain pipes.
• Do not pour grease and fat down the drain: Instead, let them cool and dispose of them in the trash bin. You can also use a grease trap to capture these substances before they enter the drain pipes.
• Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of your drainage system can help prevent blockages. This includes cleaning the drain pipes, checking for leaks, and ensuring that all plumbing fixtures are functioning correctly.

Solutions for Blockages in nothing else works.

Looking for a solution? If you have a blocked drain, there are some really simple solutions that as a small business you can try.

• Plunger: A plunger is a tool that can help unclog blocked drains in Chichester. Place the plunger over the drain, ensuring that there is enough water to cover the cup of the plunger. Push and pull the plunger rapidly to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
• Boiling water: Pour boiling water down the drain to break down the blockage. Be careful when using boiling water and ensure that it is safe to use on your pipes
• Chemical drain cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can dissolve blockages, but they can also damage pipes and plumbing fixtures. Use them as a last resort and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Drain snake: A drain snake is a tool that can help remove blockages that are deep in the pipes. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it to dislodge the blockage – one of our personal favourites!
• Professional help: If the blockage is severe or if the DIY (do it yourself) methods are not working, it is best to seek professional help. A licensed plumber can assess the problem and provide a solution that is safe and effective. Always seek professional help in this instance.

Call in the Professionals when your Blocked Drains cause you a headache

Sometimes, blockages can be a persistent problem that DIY solutions cannot solve. In this case, it may be time to call in a professional plumber to assess and fix the issue. Here are some reasons why small businesses should consider hiring a professional plumber:

• Expertise: A professional plumber has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose the cause of the blockage accurately. They have the necessary tools and equipment to inspect the pipes and determine the best course of action.
• Safety: Attempting to fix a blocked drain without the proper knowledge and equipment can be dangerous. Professional plumbers are trained in safety measures and can handle the job safely.
• Time-saving: DIY solutions can be time-consuming and may not always work. Professional plumbers can quickly identify the problem and fix it, saving small businesses valuable time and money. Do it right, do it once, do it well springs to mind.
• Long-term solutions: Professional plumbers can provide long-term solutions to prevent blockages from happening again. They can offer advice on how to maintain the drainage system and prevent future issues.

Insurance for Blocked Drains in Chichester – Top Tips!

Blocks can cause significant damage to properties, including water damage and mould growth. As a small business owner, it is essential to understand your insurance policy’s coverage for these damages. Here are some things to consider:

• Always check your policy: Review your insurance policy to see if it covers damage caused by blockages. Some policies may have exclusions for these types of damages, so it is essential to be aware of what is covered.
• Document the damage: Take pictures and document the damage caused by the blocked drain. This will help when filing a claim with your insurance company.
• Contact your insurer: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. They will provide guidance on how to proceed and what documentation is needed.
• Work with professionals: If you need to make a claim for blocked drain damage, it is essential to work with professionals. Your insurer may have preferred vendors or contractors who can help with the cleanup and repairs.

 

Preventing Blockages in Commercial Properties

Not only a problem for homes but also for commercial properties – they really can cause some headaches and disruption. Here are some tips on how small businesses can prevent blocked drains in their commercial properties:

• Schedule regular maintenance: Regular maintenance can prevent blockages from happening. Small businesses should have their drainage system inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional plumber.
• Educate employees: Small businesses should educate their employees on proper disposal practices to prevent blockages. This includes not flushing anything down the toilet that is not designed to be flushed and disposing of waste properly.
• Install drain covers: Installing drain covers can catch debris and prevent it from entering the drain pipes.
• Use grease traps: Grease traps can capture grease and fat from cooking before it enters the drain pipes.
• Repair leaks: Small leaks can lead to bigger problems, including blockages. It is essential to repair leaks as soon as they are detected.

In Conclusion

Blocked drains in Chichester can be a frustrating and costly problem for small businesses. However, they can be prevented and solved with proper measures. Small businesses should take steps to prevent blockages, including disposing of waste properly, using drain covers, and regular maintenance. If a blockage does occur, there are several DIY solutions to try, such as using a plunger, boiling water, or a drain snake. However, if these methods are not working, it is best to seek professional help.

As we said earlier small businesses should also review their insurance policy to understand what is covered for damages. Preventing blockages in commercial properties requires regular maintenance, employee education, and proper installation of drain covers and grease traps.

By taking the necessary preventive measures and addressing blockages promptly, small businesses can avoid the inconvenience and damage caused by bunged-up drains. Remember that prevention is key, and regular maintenance is necessary to keep your drainage system functioning correctly. If you are experiencing persistent blockages, it is essential to seek professional help to identify the root cause of the problem and provide a long-term solution. Why not give us a call at Dynamic Services and see what we can do to help?

Looking for more – continue reading on our blog:

• Thinking of getting a CCTV Drain Survey – read this article before you do.