How to Avoid a Drainage Emergency This Autumn
Posted on 8th September 2023 at 11:48
Here we are, the end of an underwhelming summer. Despite the promised mini heatwave, we will soon be transitioning into those glorious auburns and ambers of autumn. Those grey clouds of summer will start to turn even greyer, the rain will be heavier and last longer, and we will no longer be simmering at night.
But we love autumn. It tastes of pumpkin spice and cinnamon. We watch Halloween come and go. We get ready for Christmas. But as idyllic as the falling leaves are, they can contribute to the upsurge of blocked drains and other issues that we are not quite so keen on.
Here are some things you can do to avoid a drainage emergency this autumn:
Inspect your drains regularly.
It’s a thankless task. Nobody wants to spend their autumn checking out gutters and downspouts. However, this check is important to make sure that there are no clumps of fallen leaves and other autumnal debris clogging up your drainage system. If you do it early enough, a simple drain snake could be enough to clear your pipes.
You should also check your drains for any blockages that could eventually exacerbate the situation.
Use a drain guard.
A drain guard is a mesh or screen that sits over your drains to prevent leaves and other debris from entering. Of course, it isn’t entirely impenetrable, but it will stop those large bits of seasonal debris from getting into your system and causing all sorts of problems. If you do get a drain guard, remember to empty it regularly.
Avoid putting grease and oil down the drain.
This might seem like more of an all-season warning, but whilst you’re now tossing fewer salads and roasting heartier meals – remember that grease and oil aren’t your friends. Well, at least where your drain is concerned.
Make sure to dispose of this properly or recycle it like your nan used to do. As the weather gets colder, imagine how much more difficult a frozen clot of 3-month-old lard will be to shift.
Don't flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.
Again, more of an autumn-and-beyond suggestion, but it is always worth mentioning. When flushing those used hygiene products away, you could be blocking the system. Out of sight, out of mind, really doesn’t work for your drainage system. Make sure you find other ways to dispose of feminine products and nappies.
Have your drains cleaned professionally before autumn starts.
Yes, autumn is probably the worst season for blockages. However, you still might have three other seasons worth of clogs and clots in your drain that you will just be adding to. Treat your drains to a little TLC and help prevent a drainage emergency later down the line by having your system thoroughly cleaned.
Gardening tips to help you avoid a drainage emergency:
Avoiding blockages is more to do with maintenance than performing drain specific tasks. You have probably spent a lot of time in the garden enjoying the sporadic summer drizzles and grey skies. Now it is time to work on your garden and the outside of your house to help you avoid a drainage emergency.
Trim trees and shrubs away from your home's gutters and downspouts. This will help to prevent leaves and other debris from falling into your drains.
Rake leaves away from your home's foundation and storm drains. Between the wind and the rain, those precariously positioned leaves will soon become claggy clogs and clots within your drainage system.
Get up that ladder and clear out your gutters. You will be surprised at exactly how much gunk manages to congeal in your pipes. It’s not a glamourous job, but it is far better than wading through flood water later on.
Here are some additional tips that you may find helpful:
Use a plunger to clear minor blockages.
Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. This can help to dissolve grease and other buildup.
If you have a septic tank, have it pumped every three to five years.
Let’s have an emergency free autumn
By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to avoid a drainage emergency this autumn. By taking some simple preventive measures, you can save yourself time, money, and hassle.
Autumn is a beautiful time of year, so don't let drainage problems ruin it for you. By following these tips, you can enjoy the autumn season without having to worry about your drains.
If you're concerned about your drainage system, call us today on 01604 492701.
Alternatively, visit the contact us page for all other enquiries.
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