Drainage problems can be a significant setback to Brighton homeowners as they not only cause inconvenience but also pose severe health risks. Notably, the common culprits behind drain blockage are often the result of our lifestyle habits. Understanding these causes can help you take the necessary precautions and measures to alleviate such scenarios. Let’s delve into the most common reasons for drain blockage in Brighton homes.
1. Hair Accumulation:
One of the primary reasons for drain blockage is the accumulation of blocked drains brighton human or pet hair. It’s easy for hair to get trapped in shower drains and the bathroom sink while we bathe or shave. Over time, these hair strands bind with grease and other sticky substances to form clogs.
2. Fat and Grease:
Most of us take the easy route and rinse off cooking fats, oils, and grease down the kitchen sink. Over time, these substances solidify and build up, narrowing the drain pipe. This blockage may eventually prevent water from flowing freely, causing a backup.
3. Sanitary Products and Non-biodegradable Items:
Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilets is a common cause of blockages in Brighton homes. Items such as diapers, menstrual products, paper towels, baby wipes, and cotton swabs don’t break down naturally and will eventually lead to a clog in your drainage system.
4. Tree Roots:
Drain blockage can also be caused by external factors, such as the invasive growth of tree roots. Drain pipes, with their warm and nutrient-rich environment, can attract tree roots. They can penetrate the tiny cracks or joints of a pipe and keep growing until they completely block the flow of water.
5. Food Particles:
A very common occurrence in the kitchen sink is blockage due to food particles. Coffee grounds, tea leaves, fruit peels, eggshells, and leftover food can accumulate and gradually build a compacted plug. Using a sink strainer to catch food waste can substantially prevent this kind of blockage.
6. Soap Scum Buildup:
Hard water combined with soap creates soap scum, which is a curd-like sticky substance that attaches itself to pipe walls. Over time, soap scum can become hard and cause water flow restriction. Using soap-free washes or installing a water softener can prevent soap scum buildup.
7. Broken Pipes:
Physical damages to the pipe, such as cracks, breaks, or collapses, can cause severe drainage issues. These damages may be caused by ground movements, heavy vehicles driving over the ground above, or simply because the pipes are old and worn out.
In conclusion, most drain blockages in Brighton homes result from our daily activities. Prevention is better than cure; therefore, being mindful of what goes down our drains is crucial. Regular professional drain cleaning can also significantly help prevent unwelcome blockages. Lastly, proper rubbish disposal practices can save homeowners from the unnecessary inconvenience of dealing with a blocked drain.