5 Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Drains

Most of us don’t think about our drains until something goes wrong — but by then, it can mean bad smells, standing water, or even costly repairs. The good news? With a little knowledge, you can prevent many common issues and know when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Here are five things every homeowner (or business owner) should know about the drainage system.

1. Why drains get blocked

The majority of blockages aren’t caused by the drains themselves, but by what gets put into them. Common causes include:

  • Fats, oils, and grease – These might seem harmless when hot, but as they cool, they harden and stick to pipe walls.

  • Wet wipes and sanitary products – Even if the packaging says “flushable,” they don’t break down like toilet paper.

  • Food scraps – Rice, pasta, and coffee grounds can swell or clump together, causing blockages further down the line.

  • Tree roots – Roots are naturally drawn to moisture and can enter pipes through tiny cracks, eventually causing major disruption.

💡 Tip: Remember the golden rule — only flush the 3 Ps: pee, poo, and paper. Everything else belongs in the bin.

2. Early warning signs of a problem

Spotting the signs of a drainage issue early can save you from expensive repairs later. Keep an eye (and nose!) out for:

  • Slow-draining sinks, baths, or showers

  • Gurgling sounds from plugholes or toilets

  • Bad odors coming from drains

  • Repeated blockages in the same location

  • Patches of damp or standing water outside

If you notice these, it’s best to get your drains checked before the problem escalates.

3. Regular maintenance goes a long way

Just like your car needs a service, your drains benefit from regular check-ups too. Preventative maintenance can:

  • Keep your drains flowing freely

  • Reduce the risk of emergency call-outs

  • Extend the lifespan of your pipes

  • Help landlords and businesses stay compliant with health & safety regulations

A quick clean or inspection once in a while can prevent a costly headache later.

4. Technology has changed the industry

Gone are the days of guesswork when it comes to drains. Modern solutions make it easier (and less disruptive) to solve problems:

  • CCTV drain surveys allow engineers to see exactly what’s happening underground.

  • High-pressure water jetting can remove fat, scale, and debris safely.

  • Patch lining repairs can fix cracks without needing to dig up gardens, patios, or driveways.

This means quicker, cleaner, and often cheaper solutions for customers.

5. Why professional help matters

It’s tempting to try a DIY fix with a bottle of drain cleaner, but these chemicals often only provide short-term relief — and can even damage older pipe materials. A professional drainage engineer won’t just clear the problem; they’ll find out why it happened and provide a long-term solution.

Final Thoughts

Looking after your drains saves money, prevents emergencies, and helps protect the environment. Whether it’s a simple blockage or something more serious, getting expert advice early is always the best option.

📞 If you’re worried about your drains or want peace of mind with a CCTV survey, get in touch with YDS today for friendly, professional help.