Many homeowners dread the day they encounter a blocked drain. It might be a simple issue for some, but dealing with it is not for the faint-hearted.
Blocked drains are a common household issue that can cause inconvenience and even health hazards if left alone. It can cause slow drainage, terrible smells, water backing up, and fluctuations in water pressure.
Knowing the signs can help you take appropriate action before the issue worsens. This post will discuss seven common signs your drains are blocked and offer some solutions to help you resolve the issue and avoid further damage.
Slow Drainage
Slow drainage is one of the most common signs of a blocked drain. When water takes longer to flush down your sink, shower, or bathtub, it’s usually due to accumulated hair, soap scum, or other debris that has built up in the pipes over time. While slow drainage may seem minor, acting before it gets worse is crucial.
You may try using a plunger, a simple tool to help clear minor blockages. Place it over the drain and pump it several times to create suction. This can help dislodge any debris that’s causing the slow drainage.
Calling your trusted plumber is your best bet if this doesn’t work. Whether you’re in the Blue Mountains or Bangalore, you can find certified, experienced ones in your community who can save you a lot of money and trouble when it comes to clogged pipes.
Unpleasant Odours
When water can’t flow through your drain due to a blockage, organic matter can accumulate and start to decompose, producing a foul smell. These smells are intense and often resemble rotten eggs. If you detect an unpleasant odour in your kitchen or bathroom, it’s crucial to take action to avoid potential health hazards.
Try cleaning your drain using a natural cleaner like baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then pour boiling water down the drain to flush the debris. You can also use regular cleaners so long as they aren’t too harsh on your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Gurgling noises occur when air gets trapped in your pipes due to an obstruction. This usually happens with your sink, shower, or bathtub.
Kitchen counter with clogged sink, plunger and plumber’s accessories
While gurgling noises may not seem serious, they can be an early warning sign of a more severe blockage that could cause water to back up and cause damage to your home. Call a plumber to get serious blockages removed.
Water Backing Up
When water can’t pass through your pipes, it will eventually overflow and cause water to pool on the surface of your sink or bathtub. This can lead to water damage and potential health hazards if the water contains bacteria or other harmful substances.
If you notice water backing up in your drains, let a plumber rectify the situation.
Multiple Clogged Drains
When multiple drains are affected, it’s an indication that the problem lies in the main line that connects your home to the municipal sewer system. This can cause wastewater to back up into your home, increasing your risk of water damage and contamination.
This is another thing only a licensed plumber can fix. You should reach out to them and schedule a check-up on your water connection.
Fluctuations In Water Pressure
This issue has many causes. Sometimes, it’s a leak somewhere along your plumbing. Other times, the pipes are too corroded or clogged with mineral deposits. For many, it’s a matter of limited water supply in an area.
If the water pressure changes are only happening in one fixture, such as the tap over your sink, a thorough cleaning usually does the trick. But if that doesn’t work, a deep inspection and some replacements and repairs will be needed. For that, you’ll need a plumber.
service worker cleaning blocked sewer line with hydro jetting
The latter issue is usually something you take up with your chosen water company. You and your neighbours can work together in petitioning for immediate assistance. Make sure to provide details of the water service interruption so they can easily locate the problem and fix it.
Water Stains
Water can back up and leak out of your pipes, leading to water damage and stains on your walls, ceilings, or floors.
If you notice any water seepage or stains, it may be a sign that you have a blockage in your plumbing system that needs to be addressed. In that case, you can try finding the leak and replacing the pipe. But if that’s not something you can do, a plumber can always help.
Never Wait For Them To Get Worse
Blocked drains can cause inconvenience and even potential health hazards if left untreated. It’s essential to be aware of the signs of a blocked drain to take immediate action and avoid possible damage to your plumbing system.
It’s all a matter of knowing the scale of the problem. Just remember that professional, licensed plumbers can always save you the hassle of fixing them. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for aid.
