How Do Plumbers Clear Blocked Drains

How Do Plumbers Clear Blocked Drains? The Power of CCTV Drain Technology

Blocked drains are a common headache in the world of commercial properties. They can disrupt daily operations, lead to unpleasant odours, and even cause structural damage if left untreated. 

As a commercial property manager or business owner, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of how to address this issue effectively to avoid costly repairs and business disruptions. In this blog, we will demystify the process of clearing blocked drains and introduce you to the power of CCTV drain technology, a game-changer in the plumbing industry.

What are the common culprits of blocked drains?

What normally causes a blocked drain? A blocked drain occurs when foreign objects or accumulation obstructs the pipes, hindering the free flow and drainage of water. If not addressed promptly, a blocked drain deteriorates over time, as debris accumulates, leading to a more challenging and expensive resolution. Here are some common cause of blocked drains:

Grease and fat buildup: In restaurants and commercial kitchens, grease and fat often find their way into the drains, eventually congealing and blocking the pipes.

Foreign objects: Employees or customers may accidentally drop items down the drain, such as food scraps, sanitary products, or even small utensils, leading to blockages.

Hair and soap scum: In commercial bathrooms or residential strata buildings, hair and soap scum can accumulate over time, impeding the flow of water.

Tree roots: In some cases, tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines, causing significant blockages and pipe and structural damage.

Deteriorating pipes: Older properties may have pipes that have deteriorated over time, leading to collapses and blockages. This is particularly true of older style clay pipes.

To read more: What Causes A Blocked Drain?

Why you should never ignore a blocked drain

Blocked drains should never be ignored or underestimated, as they can have severe consequences. These include:

Property damage: Blocked drains can lead to water backup and leaks, which can result in structural damage to your commercial property.

Business disruptions: A blocked drain can disrupt your daily operations, causing inconveniences for both staff and customers. Every business owner knows that time equals money, and any loss to productivity caused by a blocked drain can cost you money every minute it is left unresolved.

Health hazards: Stagnant water in blocked drains can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other pathogens, posing health risks to your employees, clients and customers. 

Given these potential consequences, it’s crucial to address blocked drains promptly and effectively.

Traditional drain clearing methods vs. modern approaches

In the past, clearing blocked drains typically involved using manual tools or drain-cleaning chemicals. While these methods may provide temporary relief, they often fail to address the underlying issue and root cause, leading to recurrent blockages.

So nowadays, how do plumbers clear blocked drains?

The advantages of modern CCTV drain inspection technology

Fortunately, modern plumbing has advanced significantly, and one of the most remarkable innovations is CCTV drain inspection technology. This technology revolutionises the way we identify and solve drainage issues. Here’s how it works:

Diagnosis

A small, high-definition camera is inserted into the drain. It is remotely controlled by a skilled technician who navigates it through the pipes. The camera transmits live video footage, allowing the technician to see the inside of the drain in real-time.

Accurate assessment

The live footage provides an accurate assessment of the condition of your pipes and identifies the exact location and cause of the blockage. This precision minimises the need for guesswork and invasive digging.

Executing a solution

Armed with this information, the technician can choose the most appropriate and efficient method to clear the blockage. Whether it’s using a high-pressure water jet or traditional drain snake, the plumber can effectively execute a method to clear the drain blockage. 

Our expertise in CCTV drain inspection

At PBR Plumbing, we take pride in our expertise and experience in utilising CCTV drain inspection technology. Our team of skilled technicians is trained to handle the most complex drainage issues with efficiency and precision. 

Here’s how we put this technology to work for you:

Accurate diagnosis: Our technicians use CCTV cameras to pinpoint the exact location and cause of blockages swiftly. This accuracy saves time and minimises disruptions.

Effective solutions: Armed with a clear understanding of the problem, we employ the most effective solutions to clear blockages, via an electric drain machine or high pressure water jetter. Whether it’s a stubborn clog or invasive tree roots, we have the tools and knowledge to tackle it.

Preventive maintenance: Beyond clearing the current blockage, we provide recommendations for proactive drain maintenance. By addressing underlying issues and offering preventive measures, we help you avoid future blockages. Our team can also put you on a regular drain maintenance schedule, where we routinely come out to your commercial property to offer maintenance and repairs to your plumbing system. 

How can I prevent future drain blockages at my commercial property?

While we’re always here to help when you encounter a blocked drain, we also believe in proactive maintenance to prevent future issues. Here are some recommendations:

Regular inspections: Schedule regular CCTV drain inspections with our team to catch potential problems before they become blockages.

Proper waste disposal: Educate your staff and clients on proper waste disposal practices to reduce the risk of foreign objects entering the drains.

Grease traps: Install grease traps in commercial kitchens to prevent the buildup of fats and oils in the drains.

Tree maintenance: If you have trees on your property, ensure regular tree root inspections and treatments to prevent root intrusion into your pipes.

Contact PBR Plumbing for professional drain clearance services

Understanding how to address blocked drains in commercial properties is vital to prevent property damage and business disruptions. With CCTV drain inspection technology, the process has become more accurate and efficient than ever before. At PBR Plumbing, we are experts in utilising this technology to diagnose and clear drain blockages effectively. We also provide preventive maintenance recommendations to keep your plumbing system in top shape.

Don’t let blocked drains disrupt your business. Contact our team at PBR Plumbing today for professional drain clearance services, CCTV inspections and leak detection. We’re here to ensure your drains flow smoothly, keeping your commercial property in excellent condition and your business operations uninterrupted.