Top Reasons Drains Get Blocked in Liverpool Homes
Top Reasons Drains Get Blocked in Liverpool Homes
Blog Article
Top Reasons Drains Get Blocked in Liverpool Homes
Ever had that dreaded moment when the sink won't drain or the toilet starts gurgling? Welcome to the world of drain unblocking Liverpool — a surprisingly common issue for both new and old homes in the city. I’ve dealt with it personally (more than once), and every local I’ve spoken to has a horror story of their own.
The good news? If you know why it’s happening, you can fix it — or better yet, avoid it altogether.
Let’s break down the most common reasons drains get blocked in Liverpool, what it feels
1. Wet Wipes, Sanitary Items & “Flushables”
Let’s get real: if it says flushable on the label, it’s probably not.
Many homes in Liverpool — especially older terrace-style houses — have narrow pipework. Wet wipes and sanitary products don’t break down the way toilet paper does. Instead, they clump together and cause stubborn clogs deep in the drainage system.
“It started with a slow flush. Two days later, the whole bathroom backed up.” — Sophie, Aigburth
2. Grease, Fats & Oils
One of the biggest offenders? Pouring cooking oil or fat down the kitchen sink. It might seem like it disappears with hot water — but as it cools, it solidifies in the pipes.
Over time, this builds up into a fatberg. Combine that with food scraps, and you’ve got yourself a messy blockage.
Pro tip: pour fat into a jar and bin it once solid.
3. Tree Roots
If you’ve got a garden or live near one, tree roots could be the hidden villain.
Roots naturally seek out water. If they find a small crack in your underground pipe, they’ll grow right into it — and cause serious drainage issues. Many drainage companies in Liverpool offer CCTV surveys to spot this early.
“Our front yard tree was the problem the whole time. Took a full dig-up to fix it.” — Chris, Childwall
4. Old Pipe Systems
Many Liverpool properties, especially Victorian and Edwardian ones, still have their original drainage infrastructure. That means clay pipes, narrow bends, and aged joints.
These pipes are more prone to:
- Cracks
- Collapses
- Misalignments
If your drains block frequently, outdated infrastructure might be to blame.
5. Hair & Soap Scum
In bathrooms, hair is the silent drain killer.
It wraps around pipe bends and combines with soap residue to form tough clogs. You’ll notice water draining slowly in sinks or showers. Left unchecked, it turns into a full blockage.
Tip: Use a drain catcher in showers to trap hair before it disappears.
6. Poor DIY Plumbing
It’s tempting to do a bit of DIY when you spot a leak — but incorrect pipe connections or bad slopes can mess with flow.
“Previous owner installed the kitchen drain at the wrong angle. It was an uphill battle… literally.” — Jordan, Kensington
Always consult a qualified expert from reputable drainage companies in Liverpool before attempting anything major.
7. Foreign Objects (Yep, It Happens)
Kids' toys, excessive toilet paper, cotton pads, even cooking utensils — you'd be surprised what drain unblockers find.
Drain blockages aren’t always due to grime or roots. Sometimes, it’s just one rogue object causing the entire backup.
What to Do When Your Drain Gets Blocked
If you think your drains in Liverpool are blocked, don’t panic. Here’s a quick plan:
- Stop using water in that area immediately.
- Try safe DIY methods like plunging or baking soda + vinegar.
- Call a local professional for drain unblocking in Liverpool.
Many offer:
- Emergency services
- CCTV inspections
- Affordable rates
- Preventative maintenance plans
Can Blocked Drains Be Prevented?
Absolutely. Here’s how:
- Never pour fats/oils down the sink.
- Don’t flush wipes, pads, or cotton buds.
- Use drain screens to catch hair.
- Book annual inspections with a drainage company in Liverpool.
Prevention really is cheaper than repair.
FAQs: Drains Blocked in Liverpool Homes
1. Why are drains commonly blocked in Liverpool?
Mostly due to older infrastructure, wet wipes, grease, and invasive tree roots.
2. Can I unblock a drain myself?
Yes, for minor issues. Try plungers or baking soda and vinegar. For persistent clogs, call a professional.
3. How much does professional drain unblocking in Liverpool cost?
Most services range from £80–£200, depending on severity and access.
4. Who is responsible for a blocked drain in Liverpool?
If the blockage is within your property boundary, you are. Outside? United Utilities may handle it.
5. Are blocked drains covered by home insurance?
Sometimes — check if your policy covers accidental drainage issues or emergency repairs.
6. What’s the best way to maintain clear drains?
Avoid flushing anything non-biodegradable and schedule regular checks with a drain company.
7. Can tree roots really break drains?
Yes, they can enter through cracks and expand over time, causing major blockages.
8. Do drainage companies in Liverpool offer CCTV surveys?
Yes. It’s a common and effective way to detect hidden issues without digging.
9. Is it safe to use chemical unblockers?
Not recommended. They can damage old pipes and harm the environment. Always try natural methods first.
10. What are signs my drain might be blocked?
Slow draining, gurgling noises, bad smells, and water backups are common indicators.
Final Thought
Blocked drains are annoying, but they’re also preventable. With a bit of awareness — and the right local help — you can save yourself stress, time, and costly repairs.
Whether it’s an old pipe, a curious toddler, or just one too many takeaways down the sink, knowing when to call in the pros from trusted drainage companies in Liverpool makes all the difference.
Don’t wait until it floods — tackle that gurgle early. Report this page