Drainage Advice & FAQs – Expert Tips from C4 Plus Drainage
Frequently asked questions
- Odour and smell issues
- Rodent infestation
Domestic
- It has proven to be cost effective
- Reduces potential chance of blockages
- Reduces the likelihood of flooding and risk to health
- Financial appreciation
Commercial.
- Financial gains
- Prevention of internal external sewage flooding
- Maintenance reduces damage
- Less disturbance to business
- Reduces the emergency call outs
- Clean drains
- Reduces the likelihood of rodent infestation
The most common cause of sewer blockages is misuse, but reasons include:
Fat, Oil, Grease, and Food Waste: These substances can solidify and clog pipes over time.
Baby Wipes, Face Wipes, Sanitary Products, Cotton Buds & Hair: Non-biodegradable items that don’t break down easily.
Conventional Cleaning Products: Some chemicals can cause buildup or damage pipes.
Debris, Scale, and Silt: Accumulation of dirt and sediment in the pipes.
Rodent Infestation: Rodents can cause physical damage or blockages.
Defective Pipework: Cracked, collapsed, or poorly installed pipes.
Pipe Obstructions: Foreign objects or tree roots invading the pipes.
There are many reasons why and how a blockage accumulates. The most common causes include:
Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular cleaning and inspections of the drainage network.
Sewer Misuse/Abuse: Flushing or disposing of incorrect materials, such as food waste, fat, oil, grease, and wipes. Remember: Bin it, don’t flush it!
Construction Debris: Blockages often occur after property renovations or developments, where building materials or debris enter the drainage network.
Silt and Scale Buildup: Slow-draining drains and stagnant water create silt and scale compounds, typically accumulating at joint connections.
Rodent Infestation: Rats can cause severe blockages by either infesting pipes (leading to debris buildup) or causing structural damage to the pipework.
Root Penetration and Ground Movement: Tree roots can invade pipes, and ground movement can damage or misalign the drainage network.
Common signs that indicate a drainage blockage include:
Smells and Odours: Unpleasant smells coming from drains or manholes.
Toilet Water Rises When Flushed: Water backing up instead of draining properly.
Slow Draining: Water taking longer than usual to drain from sinks, showers, or baths.
Gurgling Noises: Strange noises coming from drains or pipes when water is running.
Regular Repeat Blockages: Frequent reoccurring blockages in the same area.
Every job is different. One of our technical drainage specialists will examine the extent of the blockage using our advanced CCTV equipment to pinpoint the exact cause and location of the issue.
The engineer will then update you and recommend the best solution to prevent future blockages.
All properties have different timescales and reasons for cleaning, depending on waste usage.
However, as a general guideline:
Standard Domestic Properties: Every 8–12 months.
Commercial Properties (e.g., cafes, restaurants): Every 6–8 months due to higher waste disposal.
If you have any specific queries, feel free to contact us, and one of our experts will explain in detail.
Each insurance company has different policies regarding coverage. It’s best to seek advice directly from your insurance provider or consult one of our professionals for guidance.
Do's and Dont's
- Just like your body, your drains are like the veins of your house. If they get clogged, the house won’t function properly. It’s recommended to have your drains checked every 8–12 months, or more frequently if you have recurring issues due to poorly installed pipework. A drain health check costs around £85, while major repairs can run into thousands. Remember: Prevention is better than cure!
Pasta:
Your drainpipe has a fixed width. Once pasta goes down the drain, it absorbs liquid and expands, taking up more space and causing blockages.Rice:
Like pasta, rice absorbs water and expands in your pipes. Think about how rice grows in a saucepan—now imagine that happening in your drains!Egg Shells:
Egg shells can contribute to clogs by creating a mass of material in your pipes. They’re also abrasive and can cause damage over time. Compost them—don’t flush them!- Coffee Grounds:
Plumbers often cite coffee grounds as one of the most common causes of kitchen sink clogs. Instead, use them in your garden—they’re great for roses and help produce bigger blooms! Cooking Oils and Fats:
Cooking oil hardens once it enters the drain, creating stubborn blockages. It’s messy and harmful—reuse it or bin it!Food Fat:
Butter, dairy, nuts, and other fatty foods should never go down the sink. Always bin them instead!
Baby Wipes:
A good rule of thumb: “If it doesn’t come out of you, it doesn’t belong in the loo.” Baby wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause serious blockages.Floss:
Floss binds together to create a big, messy ball that can clog your pipes.Tampons:
While they technically come from you, tampons are not biodegradable and are a major cause of blockages. Contrary to popular belief, they cannot be flushed!Condoms:
Condoms are not biodegradable and can cause significant blockages in your plumbing.Nail Clippings:
These small, sharp pieces can accumulate and contribute to clogs over time.Cat Litter:
Cat litter is designed to clump and absorb moisture, making it a nightmare for your pipes.Soup or Food Stuffs:
Food waste doesn’t belong in the toilet—it can expand, decompose, and cause blockages.“Flushable” Toilet Bowl Cleaning Heads:
Despite the label, these often don’t break down properly and can clog your system.Paper Towels:
Unlike toilet paper, paper towels are designed to be durable and don’t disintegrate in water.Nappies:
Nappies are bulky and non-biodegradable, making them a major hazard for your plumbing.Makeup Remover Wipes:
These wipes don’t break down and can bind with other materials to create stubborn blockages.
Hear From Our Happy Customers!
Don’t just take our word for it—see what our happy customers have to say about their experience with C4 Plus Drainage!
I was very impressed by the work of Ryan and his team. They attended promptly. Used a metal detector to locate a manhole cover hidden two feet under soil on a hill in my front garden. Having located the blocked drain they cleared the blockage quickly and cleanly advising it was caused by flushing baby wipes etc down the toilet. He also advised I could pay for a more extensive cleaning of the drainage system and CCTV report at a later date if I wanted to. Two previous drainage experts were unable to locate the problem. One offered to conduct an expensive survey. Ryan saved me a lot of money.
Ryan and his colleague did a great job clearing the blockage in our drains/sewer. Unfortunately, a rat popped its head up while he was working and there were signs of a rat infestation which will need further investigation. I have no hesitation in recommending Ryan and will book him for the future work that needs carrying out. What was really commendable was that he didn’t charge for the job as he is doing such work free of charge during lockdown for the over 65’s and vulnerable people. A very nice man.
Highly recommend Ryan in all aspects of his work. What we thought was a major problem turned out to be a blocked drain which Ryan cleared within a couple of hours. One very happy customer and would definitely use C4 drainage again in the future.
Highly recommend Ryan in all aspects of his work. What we thought was a major problem turned out to be a blocked drain which Ryan cleared within a couple of hours. One very happy customer and would definitely use C4 drainage again in the future.
I had been recommended the guys at C4 previously. They came to our local school to fix an emergency drainage problem. We spoke to Ryan directly, and one of his team arrived on the same day! They managed to put a temporary quick fix in place, until they could rectify the problem permanently. Amazing service, quick, efficient and polite. Always happy to help out. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them in the future. Thanks again Ryan & the team at C4 Plus Drainage 😉
An excellent company, well recommended! I called them about a blocked toilet; they arranged an engineer the same day. Logan the engineer and his colleague were extremely professional and polite. They cleared the blockage and cleaned up after themselves. I would definitely use them again.
C4 Plus Drainage provided exceptional service when our kitchen sink was backing up. They arrived promptly, diagnosed the issue swiftly, and had everything flowing smoothly in no time. Highly recommend their services.
Professional and efficient! The team at C4 Plus Drainage cleared our blocked outdoor drain with minimal disruption. They explained the cause and provided tips to prevent future issues. Will definitely call them again if needed.
After experiencing recurring drainage issues, C4 Plus Drainage conducted a thorough CCTV survey and identified the root cause. Their expertise saved us from future headaches. Truly grateful for their diligent work.
The team was courteous, knowledgeable, and resolved our drainage problem efficiently. They left the area clean and provided excellent advice on maintenance. A trustworthy company that I would recommend to anyone.
Faced with an unexpected drainage emergency, C4 Plus Drainage responded quickly and professionally. Their 24/7 service is a lifesaver. Thank you for your prompt assistance!
We had a persistent odor coming from our drains. The team diagnosed the problem and provided a lasting solution. Their attention to detail and customer service were top-notch.
C4 Plus Drainage went above and beyond to ensure our drainage system was in optimal condition. Their thorough approach and commitment to quality are commendable. Highly satisfied with their service.
From the initial call to the completion of the job, the service was impeccable. The engineers were friendly, professional, and resolved our drainage issue promptly. Would highly recommend C4 Plus Drainage.
Efficient, reliable, and knowledgeable. C4 Plus Drainage provided excellent service at a reasonable price. They are now our go-to experts for any drainage concerns.
The team was punctual, respectful, and worked diligently to clear our blocked drain. They also provided valuable advice on preventing future issues. Exceptional service!
C4 Plus Drainage tackled a challenging drainage problem at our property with expertise and determination. Their innovative solutions and professionalism are truly appreciated.
I can't thank the team enough for their prompt response and effective service. They turned a stressful situation into a manageable one with their expertise and calm demeanor.
Top-notch service from start to finish. The engineers were knowledgeable, courteous, and resolved our drainage issue efficiently. Highly recommend C4 Plus
24HR Drain Clearance
Blocked Drain? Unable to flush your Toilet? Bad Smell or Odour? Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and one of our friendly Technical Specialists will resolve your issue Fast, Efficiently and Effectively.
Full Service List
Jetting, clearing, cleaning, CCTV investigation, blockages, flooding, blocked drains, infestations, collapsed drains, de-scaling and lining, internal blockages, external blockage, sewer cleaning and health and safety reviews.
Local to you
C4 Drainage and sewer repairs are based in Caterham but service Coulsdon, Warlingham, Purley, Kenley, Croydon, Woldingham and surrounding areas. We can be with you within the hour, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
