Why you should be mindful about what you put down your drains
Your household drains are ‘out of sight, out of mind’-until a blockage occurs, and it’s time to call a plumber. We all play a crucial role in preventing this. Being mindful about what goes down our toilets and sinks is a key part of the solution to prevent clogged drains that can lead to major plumbing issues.
So, what exactly shouldn’t go down the drain?
Fat, cooking oil, nappies, wet wipes, food waste and cotton buds are common culprits for blocking drains. You should be particularly mindful of these when it comes to your household drains.
Clogged drains can be a nightmare, resulting in nasty odours and slow drainage. So, think twice before flushing or rinsing away items that can have a negative environmental impact.
Tips for protecting your drains
Bag it and bin it: Grease and wet wipes are the two biggest offenders for blocking drains. They’re responsible for the gigantic fatbergs that periodically form in the sewers, causing untold damage. Instead, fat and other debris should be collected, thrown into a bag and disposed of so it doesn’t damage the environment.
Use a compost bin: A compost bin is a great way to improve your garden and keep food waste from your drainage system. Toss veg peels and any bad bits into a tub by the sink to be composted later.
Book a CCTV drain survey: Checking your drains regularly can stop minor issues from escalating into major ones. A CCTV drain survey Leicester from a professional surveyor such as https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-leicester/ is essential for good drain health and preventative maintenance. A drain survey is a non-disruptive, quick and straightforward way to pinpoint and deal with any issues.
Think before you flush: The toilet isn’t a wastebasket, so don’t treat it like one. Think of the Three Ps – pee, poo and paper – before you flush, and avoid anything else. Instead, put a waste bin next to the toilet for any non-flushables.
These simple steps and a twice-yearly CCTV drain survey can keep drain blockages at bay for complete peace of mind.