A functioning drainage system will process waste and water unnoticed until something goes wrong. Signs of a blocked drain may begin somewhat benignly, but will develop into a significant problem for your family or customers.
Occasional gurgling sounds from your drains are not cause for concern. Air pressure changes within the piping can cause strange noises to occur naturally. Consistent gurgles may indicate the beginning of a larger problem, especially if this is accompanied by slow drainage. Unpleasant odors emanating from your drain or lavatory may also become noticeable to those in the household or off-putting to customers.
Overflow of sewage or sludge from your drains is an unavoidable and unpleasant indication that you may have a blockage. Backwash poses a health risk to anyone on your property. Mess and odors damage your reputation within a community, which is devastating for businesses.
Kitchen drains are often clogged due to a buildup of grease. Although liquid at the time of disposal, fat from cooking will quickly harden and solidify within your pipes to create a sticky, impenetrable wall. Fatty deposits in drains not only restrict proper water flow, they cause small food items to become embedded, significantly exacerbating the problem.
Bathroom plumbing is designed to deal with human waste and toilet paper. Attempting to flush other items overloads the system, leading to a blockage. Wet wipes, diapers and feminine hygiene products should only be disposed of in the trash – never through your drains. Hair clogs are a common problem for shower drains. Residue from soap and shampoo then binds with hairs to produce a surprisingly stagnant obstruction.
Even if you are very careful to properly dispose of waste and trash, exterior factors may cause blocked drains. Root systems from trees and plants may move, bend or break drainage pipes in search of water. Loose leaves and dirt from garden maintenance can easily make their way down your drains.
Minor blockages are solvable without professional help. Applying a mixture of baking soda and vinegar dissolves stubborn clogs, especially if followed with boiling water. Plungers and chemical cleaners require some expertise to use correctly, but are effective at removing foreign objects, grease and grime.
If your drains are still not functioning normally, contact Absolute Best Plumbing. We have the skills and expertise to accurately locate the source of your drainage issues and return them to working order. Contact our Orlando, Florida, office today.