Drain Cleaning Perth involves removing food bits, garbage, grease, hair, and other debris from your home’s plumbing lines. It helps your pipes function normally and prevents clogs from returning.
There are many DIY ways to tackle clogged drains, but some projects should be left to professional plumbers. Here are the top 6 reasons to call for a professional!
When dirt, sand, and other debris build up in drains, it may restrict water flow. This is especially a problem for outdoor drains where sediment can wash into and block drainage lines. Homeowners can take steps to prevent clogs by assessing and cleaning their outdoor drains regularly. This includes using a shovel or scoop shaped tool to remove any material that has covered the entrance or exit of the drain pipe opening. This should be done with caution to avoid pushing the debris deeper into the drain.
In addition, homeowners can install drain covers to keep out larger debris such as rocks and leaves. Regularly sweeping or blowing yard debris away from drain lines is also helpful.
As dirt, hair, grease, oil, and other debris make their way into drain pipes, they can accumulate, forming a thick clog that blocks water flow. These clogs are often difficult to clear and require professional drain cleaning. The most common cause of these clogs is the improper disposal of waste such as food scraps and oily residue.
Some types of clogs can be resolved by using an at-home drain cleaner, such as baking soda and vinegar. Other clogs, such as those caused by tree roots, are more serious and may require the services of a plumber.
If a DIY drain cleaner does not work, homeowners can try to dislodge the clog by using a plunger or a drain snake. They can also use a chemical drain cleaner, although these products can be hazardous to health and the environment.
Dirt and sand that enters drain pipes can eventually be washed into the river or sea, where it endangers marine life and causes environmental damage. Regular drain cleaning can significantly reduce the amount of dirt and debris that is washed into the ocean.
Taking the time to clean a dirty drain can save homeowners the trouble and expense of dealing with costly and dangerous drain problems in the future. Keeping drains clean protects property owners from the dangers of unhealthy and smelly environments, and helps prevent waste and sewage overflows that could lead to severe water damage.
Sediment Buildup
Sediment is a collection of small particles that can include minerals from hard water, sand, dirt, and even rust particles from your own plumbing. These particles can linger on the inside of drain pipes, becoming a foundation for other materials to cling to. Over time, this can lead to a build-up of hair, soap scum, and food waste that restricts water flow.
In addition to a slowdown in water flow, sediment-related blockages may produce unpleasant odors and promote the growth of fungus and bacteria. If left unaddressed, this issue can worsen to the point of affecting your entire sewer line.
A professional plumber can help you determine whether your clogged drain is caused by sediment or some other issue. In some cases, the solution can be as simple as a hot water rinse or using a commercial drain cleaner. However, in more severe cases, such as when tree roots are compromising a pipe or you have been flushing items like baby wipes, you will need more extensive and aggressive measures to address the problem.
Another indication of a sediment problem is when a toilet repeatedly backs up or overflows. This is a sign that the underlying sewage system has become clogged with organic material and requires expert cleaning.
Regular drain cleaning is an excellent preventative measure that can significantly lower the need for targeted drain cleaning services. A plumbing expert can advise you on a maintenance routine that will keep your drains clean and free from blockages.
Some of these routine maintenance measures include installing drain screens, disposing of grease and other solids properly, and using a biological drain maintainer that will consume organic waste, including soap scum, and turn it into water and CO2. If you’ve been experiencing frequent clogs, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your local plumber. A thorough inspection will determine if your drains are in need of cleaning or a more extensive and comprehensive repair service. Clogged drains can disrupt daily life and signal an underlying problem with your sewer lines or plumbing. Recognizing and addressing these issues early can save you costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.
Fungus and Bacteria
Bacteria are a natural part of the world and, in fact, most bacteria are actually quite harmless. However, some bacteria that make their homes in drains and pipes can be harmful. They thrive in wet environments and conditions, such as a clogged drain. Regular drain cleaning services can help prevent bacteria from building up in your pipes and plumbing system.
One of the most common causes of bacterial contamination in drains is poor drain maintenance. When dirt, hair, skin cells, toothpaste, and other debris build up in a drain, it can form a sticky substance called black slime or biofilm. The biofilm traps more debris as it continues to grow, creating a thick mass that is very difficult to remove.
When this happens, bacteria are free to multiply and cause further problems with your home’s plumbing. It can lead to sewage backups, overflows, and even structural damage to your home. It can also increase your risk of infection and illness.
Clogged drains are breeding grounds for many different types of pathogens, including E. coli and species like Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause food poisoning, toxic shock, pneumonia, and other serious illnesses. In addition to these bacteria, fungus can also accumulate in drains and release spores into the air. This can aggravate allergies and other respiratory conditions, such as asthma.
To keep bacteria and fungus from building up in your drains, regularly perform routine maintenance, such as using a weekly mixture of baking soda and vinegar or using an enzyme cleaner that safely breaks down organic materials without damaging your pipes and the surrounding environment. Many traditional chemical drain cleaners have been shown to deplete oxygen in water systems, which can harm aquatic life and plants.
To protect yourself during manual drain cleaning, always use a pair of heavy-duty rubber gloves and protective eyewear. It is also a good idea to wear a face mask to prevent inhaling any contaminants that may be released during the process. Additionally, consider hiring a professional drain cleaner to do the job for you. They can use specialized tools that eliminate the need for manual removal and can clean out hard-to-reach areas that are often overlooked.
Water Damage
Having clean drains is important for your family’s health and safety. If your drains aren’t working correctly, or you have a serious clog that’s not being addressed, it can lead to mold growth, foul odors and even water damage in your home. Having your drains regularly cleaned by a professional can help keep your home safe and healthy for your family.
Drain cleaning is an affordable service that can be done quickly and effectively by a professional plumber. It can also prevent more expensive repairs in the future by getting rid of any blockages before they get worse.
A Clogged Drain Can Cause Severe Health Issues
When you have a clogged drain, it can allow food scraps and other debris to back up into your home’s plumbing system. This can lead to unpleasant odors and can cause mold and bacteria to grow in your pipes, showers, toilets and sinks. These microorganisms can then contaminate your drinking water and make you and your family sick.
If you notice that your drains are slowing down or smelling bad, it’s time to call for a professional drain cleaner. A professional can use a drain snake to break up larger clogs and may be able to locate and remove stubborn blockages that you couldn’t fix with a plunger or store-bought drain cleaner.
Another reason to have your drains professionally cleaned is that it can help prevent clogs in the future. A professional can use a tool called a video camera to look inside your pipes and see what is causing the problem. This can help them figure out where the clog is and how to repair it without damaging your pipes or home.
While it is impossible to prevent all clogs, there are steps you can take to minimize them. Be mindful of what you put down your drains, and install a drain cover or hair catcher in your bathrooms to stop large items from entering the drains. You can also perform regular DIY drain cleaning with natural products to avoid blockages. And, be sure to have your drains and sewers inspected by a professional plumber on a routine basis to prevent problems before they start.
