Drains and sewer lines are an integral part of almost every building. We need these systems to not only dispose of wastewater but also to ensure that our homes and buildings remain clean and hygienic. But as you’ve probably experienced, they can be prone to blockages and require regular maintenance to function efficiently.
In this article, we will explore the various types of drains and sewer lines, the causes of blockages, and the importance of regular maintenance. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to understand drain maintenance better so you can easily find professionals for drain cleaning in Sydney or Melbourne.
Types of Drains and Sewer Lines
There are several types of drains and sewer lines in a typical home or building, including kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, shower drains, toilets, and main sewer lines. Each type of drain and sewer line has unique characteristics that affect how they operate and the issues it may encounter. Let’s take a look at them.
Kitchen Sinks
Kitchen sink drains are a specific type of drain found in the kitchen and function by removing water waste from food via the sink. The kitchen sink is a heavily used fixture in most homes and commercial kitchens, with the drain playing an essential role in food hygiene.
Bathroom & Shower Drains
Bathroom and shower drains are designed to remove water and waste from sinks, showers, and tubs. These are other systems vital for hygiene but also can be prone to blockages from hair or sanitary products.
Floor drains
Floor drains are typically found in basements, laundry rooms, and garages. They are designed to collect water that may accumulate on the floor due to flooding or spills. Floor drains typically have a strainer or grate that prevents large objects from entering the drain.
Roof Drains
Roof drains are located on the roof of a building and are used to collect rainwater and other types of precipitation. They are usually connected to a downspout that directs the water away from the building.
Stormwater drains
Stormwater drains are designed to collect water that flows over the ground during a rainstorm or other precipitation event. They are located in low-lying areas and are designed to prevent flooding.
Causes of Drain and Sewer Line Blockages
There can be a range of reasons why drains get blocked, which vary depending on the area or purpose of the drain. Generally, kitchen sinks are often prone to blockages due to food scraps, grease, and oil buildup in the pipes. In contrast, bathroom sinks and shower drains can also experience blockages from hair, soap, and toothpaste.
Toilets are another common source of blockages, typically caused by flushing non-flushable items such as wipes, sanitary products, and cotton balls. This can affect the main sewer line, the most significant drain in a home or building and is responsible for carrying all the wastewater from the building to the municipal sewer system.
Several other factors contribute to blockages in drains and sewer lines. These include tree roots growing into the pipes, aging pipes that have deteriorated, and changes in the temperature, which can cause pipes to shift and crack.
Regular Maintenance Practices
Preventing blockages requires a combination of regular maintenance practices and educating individuals on what not to put down their drains. Items such as grease, oil, food scraps, and non-flushable products should be disposed of in the trash, not the sink or toilet. These are, unfortunately, the most common cause of blocks and the most preventable.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the efficient operation of drains and sewer lines. It is recommended to regularly clean the pips as this is one of the most effective maintenance practices. You should also regularly check the pipes for any issues or blockages, which can be done visually or by using specific equipment.
Conclusion
Maintaining drains, and sewer lines is an essential aspect of home and building maintenance that is often overlooked. While all types of drains and sewer lines have different requirements, they can all be easily maintained by focusing on prevention and regular inspection. So ensure that you’re taking care of your plumbing systems to get the most longevity for your property.
