Hair in drains may seem like a minor issue, but it can have a significant impact on your plumbing system, leading to clogs, slow drainage, and even more severe problems if left unattended. If you live in Southampton or the surrounding areas and are facing drainage issues due to hair build up, you’re not alone. Totally Blocked Drains is here to provide expert clearance for blocked drains Southampton. In this blog post, we will discuss the impact of hair in drains, prevention strategies, and effective removal techniques.
The Culprit: How Hair Causes Drain Problems
Hair is a common culprit behind blocked drains. When hair accumulates in your pipes, it can lead to a series of problems:
- Slow Drainage: As hair particles clump together, they restrict the flow of water, causing your sink or shower to drain more slowly.
- Blockages: Over time, the accumulated hair can create a stubborn blockage in your pipes, which can be challenging to remove.
- Odour Issues: Hair traps soap scum, dirt, and other debris, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth, which can result in unpleasant odours.
- Costly Repairs: If hair blockages are left untreated, they can put additional strain on your plumbing system, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Now that we understand the impact of hair in drains, let’s explore some preventive measures and effective removal techniques to keep your drains flowing smoothly.
Prevention is Key
Preventing hair from entering your drains in the first place is the most effective way to avoid clogs and blockages. Here are some preventive strategies to consider:
- Use Drain Screens: Install drain screens or hair catchers in your sinks, showers, and bathtub drains. These inexpensive devices can trap hair before it enters the pipes.
- Regular Maintenance: Make it a habit to clean your drain screens regularly. Remove any collected hair and debris to prevent build up.
- Brush Before Bathing: Encourage family members to brush their hair before taking a shower or bath. This can help reduce the amount of loose hair that ends up in the drain.
- Avoid Pouring Grease: Greasy substances can trap hair and other debris, making clogs more likely. Avoid pouring cooking oil or grease down the drain.
- Invest in Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular professional drain maintenance with experts like Totally Blocked Drains. We can inspect your pipes, clean them, and provide preventive treatments to keep your drains clear.
Effective Hair Removal Techniques
If you’re already facing a hair-related drain issue, don’t worry; there are several effective techniques to remove hair from your drains.
- Manual Removal: For minor clogs near the drain entrance, you can try manually removing the hair with a pair of needle-nose pliers or a hair snake. Be gentle to avoid damaging your pipes.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: This natural remedy can help break down hair clogs. Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. Wait for about 15 minutes and then flush with more hot water.
- Chemical Drain Cleaners: While chemical drain cleaners can be effective, they should be used sparingly and with caution, as they can harm your pipes and the environment. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Professional Drain Cleaning: When faced with persistent or severe hair clogs, it’s best to leave the job to professionals like Totally Blocked Drains. We have the equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove hair and debris from your pipes.
Contact Totally Blocked Drains
Hair in drains may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to significant plumbing problems if left unchecked. Prevention is the best approach to avoid hair-related drain issues, and using drain screens, regular drain maintenance, and encouraging good habits can go a long way. It’s important to note that hair can cause blockages in toilets also, not just drains.
If you’re already dealing with hair-related drain or toilet problems in Southampton or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to reach out to Totally Blocked Drains. Our expert team can diagnose and resolve the issue promptly, ensuring your drains and toilets are flowing smoothly once again. Remember that proactive maintenance and professional help are key to maintaining a healthy plumbing system and preventing costly repairs down the road.