Drainage systems perform the essential task of expelling waste and excess water from our homes. However, dealing with blocked drains can be a common and annoying issue for many Portsmouth homeowners. Misunderstandings and mythology over what causes these blockages and how to resolve them often abound. It’s time to debunk some of these common misconceptions about blocked drains in Portsmouth.

1. Only Indoor Items Cause Blockages

One prevailing thought is that only indoor materials, such as toiletries and food waste, cause blocked drains. This belief, however, is entirely misguided. While it’s true that fats, oils, and other items disposed of incorrectly down the sink can build up to cause a blockage, outdoor factors can also contribute significantly.

Tree roots are a common external culprit, growing into your pipes seeking water. Once inside, they can cause significant blocks and even crack or fracture your pipes. Portsmouth has a great number of trees due to its coastal location, meaning this isn’t a rare occurrence in the city.

2. All Drain Cleaners Are Safe for Your Pipes
blocked drains portsmouth
Many homeowners in Portsmouth think that strong, chemical-laden drain cleaners are the best solution for blocked drains. Unfortunately, these harsh substances can damage your pipes over time, leading to significant plumbing issues that require costly repairs.

Instead, consider using a regular high-pressure water jet system to remove the blockage. This method is highly effective and doesn’t corrode or damage the pipework.

3. Plungers Can Fix All Blocked Drains

Another common misconception is that you can fix all blockages with a simple plunge. While plungers are effective tools for dealing with certain types of clogs, they won’t always get the job done, particularly for serious blockages involving tree roots or hardened fat deposits.

Instead, professional assessment and intervention are often necessary to prevent additional damage and ensure the blockage is completely removed.

4. You Have to Wait for a Fully Blocked Drain to Call a Plumber

Many Portsmouth homeowners wait until their drainage system is utterly blocked before ringing a plumber. This belief is erroneous and could lead to more severe and costly problems. It’s much better to call in the professionals at the first signs of slow drainage or unusual noises, enabling the issue to be dealt with before it escalates.

5. Ignore Blocked Drains, They Will Clear Themselves

Lastly, some people believe that they can ignore blocked drains, hoping the issue will resolve itself. This is a grave misconception. Idle wishing seldom resolves plumbing issues. Instead, stagnant standing water can lead to bad odours, bacterial build-up, and even potential health risks to the household not to mention the potential of an extreme overflow.

In conclusion, the key to dealing with blocked drains in Portsmouth lies in handling them promptly and professionally, rather than falling into the trap of common misconceptions. By understanding the truth about what causes blockages and what solutions are effective, we can have a better approach to resolving and preventing these problems. Regular drain checks and proper disposal of waste are essential practices in avoiding drainage nightmares in the first place.