From your kitchen to your bathroom, pipes are the invisible veins that keep your house running. Whilst they may appear functional, minor problems can sometimes be overlooked until they develop into larger issues. By then, what could have been a minor fix may have become a significant one.
At Mr Drains, we believe in informing people about the measures they can take to ensure their plumbing systems work as efficiently as possible. Being aware of the signs of plumbing issues can help prevent the need for major repairs.
Recognising Common Warning Signs
It is important to be aware of changes in your plumbing. Do-it-yourself solutions can sometimes help clear minor clogs. These solutions are great in between professional drain cleaning but aren’t able to thoroughly prevent large blockages. It can be hard to know when to call a plumber for a clogged toilet or a noisy drain, but there are signs that signal when it is time to seek professional help.
Drain Dramas: Slow Drains
From food debris in the kitchen to hair in the shower, drains can become blocked over time. Clean pipes should allow water to drain quickly. A slow drain can indicate that there is a clog. Multiple slow drains throughout the property are a sign of a major blockage, and a plumber should be called immediately before it worsens.
Stagnation Sorrows: Standing Water
Standing water is a sign that there is a blockage in your pipes preventing water from easily flowing. DIY plumbing solutions such as using a plunger and drain clearing products can help temporarily remove the water but tougher debris may stay, left to collect further waste and reclog. A professional can clear blockages completely.
Rising Tides: Drain Water
When you flush the toilet, and water from your shower drain rises in response, there’s a problem. A clog can prevent water from flowing through the drain lines. This forces wastewater back up out of the same, or different, drain.
With water-heavy mechanisms like washing machines, this can cause unexpected flooding. Seek immediate advice from experts like Mr Drains if you notice water rising higher than normal.
Plunger Problems: Frequent Clogs
Small clogs can form in drains even if regularly cleaned at home by inevitable mineral build-up. If you find you have to unclog your drains regularly, this could indicate a larger blockage that needs to be professionally cleared.
Grinding Gurgles: Strange Noises
If you notice a sound like a drink being quickly poured, it could mean there is a clog. As a blockage begins to form, water rushing past creates air bubbles that become trapped by the build-up. A plumber can identify where and how to fix this clog without damaging your pipes before it worsens.
Olfactory Assault: Foul Smells
A build-up of waste in pipes can create a foul odour in your home. This smell worsens during summer as temperatures rise and the blocked waste festers. Be aware of the smell coming from your drains as it can tell you when to call a plumber for a clogged drain.
Buzzing Intruders: Fruit Flies
Fruit flies can be a troublesome pest, especially in the home. Flies can be attracted to the food waste built up and clogged in kitchen drains. If you notice an increase in pests, a professional can survey your plumbing system to identify blocks that may be occurring out of sight.
When to Call a Plumber
DIY solutions can keep your pipes clear temporarily but may not work to prevent serious blockages. A professional plumber has more advanced tools to provide a better clean, perform more efficient installations and identify issues before they worsen. The sooner you notice these signs and seek to solve the issue, the less likely it is that major problems will occur. Regular maintenance and care will ensure your plumbing is functioning at its best.
Mr Drains is committed to keeping up with the latest technology available to help expertly maintain your plumbing system. As dedicated professionals in the field, we can accurately assess and identify problems and ensure you have a stress-free plumbing experience. Call our friendly team at 0437 246 700 or fill out our online contact form to get advice from the blocked drain specialists today.
