How Often Should I Get My Drains Cleaned?

Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of keeping your drains clean. With so many other things to worry about, drain maintenance can easily slip your mind, and most people only think of calling a drainage contractor when an emergency situation arises. However, regular drain cleaning is vital for ensuring the efficiency of your plumbing system. Hiring a professional drainage company not only ensures that you have one less thing to worry about, but also provides peace of mind that your system is functioning optimally.

But exactly how often should your drains be cleaned? 1st Call Drain Clearance & Technical Services is here to answer this all-important question so that you understand just what needs to be done to keep your drains in top condition.

Why is having your drains cleaned important?

From washing dishes to taking showers, your plumbing system is in constant use. Therefore, it’s normal for clogs to build up over time when soap scum, food scraps, hair and other waste accumulate. Whilst these clogs may seem like a minor issue, if left unchecked, they can result in blockages that cause costly damage and can even pose a health risk. As the old adage goes, ‘prevention is better than cure’, and regular drain cleaning can stop a clog from developing in the first place, meaning you’ll never have to deal with the inconvenience and expense of a blocked drain.

Signs your drains may need cleaning

Bad Odours

An unpleasant smell emanating from your drains is never a good sign. This bad odour could indicate that a clog has formed, preventing water from flowing freely. This combination of stagnant water and accumulated waste can foster harmful bacteria, leading to a foul stench. If the smell of your drains has you recoiling, it’s crucial to address this issue rapidly before the clog has a chance to worsen.

Slow draining

As clogs in your drain grow, they can significantly reduce the space inside your pipes, leading to restricted water flow. This can cause water to drain slowly or not at all, and may even result in water backing up into your sink or shower. If you notice that water is taking longer than usual to drain, this could be a sign of a large clog obstructing the pipe. 

Unusual sounds 

When water attempts to flow through a blocked drain, it creates air pockets which can produce unusual noises. These can take the form of gurgling or bubbling sounds.

So, how often should my drains be cleaned?

It is generally recommended that you incorporate regular drain cleaning into your weekly cleaning routine. DIY cleaning methods, such as using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains, can be effective in preventing waste build-up and ensuring smooth water flow. However, it’s crucial to seek the help of a professional drainage contractor every so often, to guarantee a thorough cleaning.

Ideally, you should have your drains cleaned by a professional at least once a year, although this may vary depending on the property type. For example, if you work in a commercial kitchen where usage is high and large amounts of cooking fats are disposed of daily, more frequent drain cleaning may be necessary. Also, if you notice any of the telltale signs mentioned above, it may be necessary to get your drains cleaned earlier than scheduled.

In addition to professional drain cleaning, an experienced plumbing company can carry out a CCTV drain survey. This is a non-invasive and accurate way to identify any underlying problems within your drainage system, preventing any issues from worsening and allowing for prompt repairs to be performed. 

At 1st Call Drain Clearance & Technical Services, our team offer a number of drain unblocking and cleaning services to domestic and commercial customers across Central London, Brentford and beyond. Our knowledgeable experts have over 25 years of industry experience and can also perform CCTV drain surveys that are sure to swiftly identify any issues with your plumbing system. 

We’re available at any time of the day or night, simply contact us to discuss your drainage issues so that we can help you reach a speedy resolution.