Top 7 Things Homeowners Do That Ruin Their Drains Without Realising
Seven common habits that quietly damage drains over time, and how homeowners can avoid them.
Many drain problems are the result of everyday habits rather than one big mistake. Here are seven common ones worth reconsidering.
Pouring fat and oil down the sink
Even small amounts of fat and oil poured regularly will build up inside a pipe over time, gradually narrowing it until a blockage forms. Letting fat cool and disposing of it in the bin avoids this entirely.
Flushing wipes and sanitary products
Wipes, including those marketed as flushable, do not break down like toilet paper. They can catch on rough spots inside the pipe and combine with fat to form dense blockages further down the system.
Ignoring slow drainage
A sink or bath that drains slowly is often dismissed as a minor annoyance, but it usually signals a build up that will only get worse. Addressing it early with drain unblocking or jetting prevents a bigger problem later.
Overusing chemical drain cleaners
Occasional use of a chemical cleaner is unlikely to cause harm, but regular use can damage older pipework and does not always clear the full length of a blockage. A physical clearing method such as jetting is usually more reliable and gentler on the pipe over time.
- Pouring fat and oil down sinks
- Flushing wipes, cotton buds or sanitary products
- Ignoring slow draining sinks and baths
- Relying too heavily on chemical drain cleaners
- Letting garden waste and leaves collect over external gullies
- Planting trees too close to drain runs
- Never having drains checked or serviced
Neglecting external gullies
Leaves, soil and general garden debris can accumulate over an external gully and gradually block it, causing water to pool around the property during heavy rain. A quick clear out every so often prevents this build up.
Planting trees too close to drains
Trees and large shrubs planted near a drain run can eventually send roots into the pipe, especially if there is already a small crack or loose joint. Choosing planting locations away from known drain routes reduces this risk.
If you recognise any of these habits, it may be worth arranging a CCTV drain survey to check the current condition of your pipework. Rapid Drainage Services covers London and Essex, with 24 hour emergency call outs available. Call 020 3488 6280 or email info@rdrainage.co.uk.