Is Summer the Enemy of Your Drains? Top Tips to Keep Them Flowing Freely
Posted on 24th May 2024 at 13:57
Ah, summer! Warmer weather, longer days, and... blocked drains? While summer brings many joys, it can also present some challenges for your plumbing. Believe it or not, the season can put extra strain on your drainage system. But fear not! Here's a look at why summer might be a bit rough on your drains, and some top tips to keep them flowing freely all season long.
Sunshine and Blockages: The Unlikely Culprit
You might think of rain as the main culprit for drain woes, but sunshine can also play a part. Here's how:
Dried-out Traps: P-traps, those U-shaped bends under sinks and drains, are filled with water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. During hot, dry spells, the water in these traps can evaporate, leaving your home vulnerable to unpleasant odours.
Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG): Summer often means barbecues and delicious fatty treats. Unfortunately, pouring FOG down the drain can solidify as temperatures rise, leading to blockages.
Increased Water Usage: With hotter weather comes the urge to cool down. This means more showers, paddling pools in the garden, and washing the car more frequently. This surge in water usage can put more strain on your drainage system, potentially revealing existing weaknesses.
Keeping Your Drains Happy All Summer Long
Here are some simple steps you can take to avoid a summer plumbing nightmare:
Run the Tap Regularly: For drains that aren't used often, like the guest bathroom sink, run the tap for a few minutes every week. This keeps the P-trap filled and prevents odours.
Beware of FOG: Never pour FOG down the drain. Instead, let it cool and solidify, then scrape it into the bin. You can also use a grease trap to catch FOG before it enters your drains.
Catch Those Food Scraps: Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps before they wash down the sink. This will prevent them from accumulating and causing blockages further down the line.
Bicarbonate Soda and Vinegar Power: For a natural drain cleaner, try the classic baking soda and vinegar combo. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. The fizzing action can help loosen minor blockages.
Hot Water Flush: Occasionally, pour a kettle of hot water down the drain to help melt any built-up grease or soap scum.
When in Doubt, Call a Professional
If you suspect a serious blockage or have tried these tips with no success, don't hesitate to call a qualified plumber. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and clear any drain problems you might be facing.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your drains flowing freely all summer long. Remember, a little prevention can go a long way in avoiding a messy and inconvenient plumbing issue. Now, get out there and enjoy the sunshine – with peace of mind knowing your drains are happy too!
If you need emergency assistance with a blocked drain, call us today on 01604 492701.
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