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Manchester Drain Unblocking Services

IntroducDrain Unblockingtion:

Drain unblocking in Manchester is a constant battle, due to heavy rainfall being common. This causes drainage issues become prominent more quicky and can disrupt daily life for homeowners and businesses alike. In this blog, Watermains and Drains UK explore the causes of blocked drains and provide practical solutions to keep your drains flowing smoothly.

Common Causes of Blocked Drains:

  1. Foreign Objects: Items like wet wipes, sanitary products, and cooking grease should never be flushed down the toilet or poured down the sink. These can accumulate and cause blockages.
  2. Tree Roots: Tree roots can infiltrate drain pipes, leading to clogs. Regular maintenance and root cutting are essential to prevent this issue.
  3. Collapsed Pipes: Old or damaged pipes can collapse, obstructing the flow of wastewater. Professional inspections can identify such issues.
  4. Heavy Rainfall: Manchester’s weather can overwhelm drainage systems during heavy rain. Blocked drains may result from debris washed into the pipes.
  5. Incorrect Pipe Installation: Poorly installed pipes can lead to blockages. Proper installation ensures efficient drainage.

Solutions:

  1. Professional Drain Unblocking Services:
  2. Regular Maintenance:
  3. Avoid Flushing Inappropriate Items:
    • Educate household members about what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet.
    • Dispose of cooking grease properly (e.g., in a sealed container).
  4. Root Cutting:
    • If tree roots are causing blockages, WMD undertake root cutting & remedial solutions.
    • Regular root maintenance can prevent future issues.
  5. Emergency 24/7 Services:
    • Some companies offer round-the-clock call-out services for urgent drain problems.
    • Having a reliable contact for emergencies is crucial.

Choose a Trusted Local Company:

When dealing with blocked drains in Manchester, choose a reputable local company with a transparent track record of excellent service. Remember that prevention is better than cure, so invest in regular maintenance to keep your drains clear and avoid costly repairs.


Remember, if you encounter a blocked drain, don’t panic. Contact WMD who will promptly to resolve the issue. Whether it’s a stubborn blockage or routine maintenance, addressing drainage problems promptly will save you time, money, and stress.

See what your local water authority – United Utilities say about helping to prevent blockages.

If you would like more information or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the WMD team where we happily help to get customers drains flowing again.

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5 Harmful Effects of a Blocked Drain

Healthy drainage systems are crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment.

At Watermains and Drains, we’ve seen the problems a harmful drain can cause, so we’re here to remind you just why healthy drainage is important, show you the effect an unhealthy drain can have, as well as offer some helpful tips and tricks for keeping your drain in good working order.

A healthy drain is important because it…

  1. Prevents Flooding

    A healthy drainage system can prevent flooding by directing excess water away from buildings and infrastructure.

  2. Reduces Pollution

    Drainage systems play a vital role in preventing pollution by removing wastewater and sewage from homes and businesses. This prevents harmful substances from entering rivers, lakes, and other water sources.

  3. Protects Public Health

    A properly functioning drainage system prevents stagnant water from collecting in the streets, which can attract insects and lead to the spread of diseases.

  4. Maintains Infrastructure

    A well-maintained drainage system helps protect infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings from water damage and erosion.

  5. Improves Quality of Life

    A healthy drainage system contributes to a better quality of life by ensuring that streets are free of standing water and unpleasant odours.

Overall, healthy drainage is essential for maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all.

Harmful effects of a blocked drain

  1. Foul Odours

    Blocked drains can emit unpleasant odours, especially if there is stagnant water or organic matter caught in the pipes. These smells can permeate your home and make it uncomfortable for you and your guests.

  2. Water Damage

    When a drain is blocked, water can back up and overflow, causing water damage to your floors, walls, and other surfaces. This can result in costly repairs and potential mould growth if not addressed promptly.

  3. Health Hazards

    Blocked drains can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. This can pose a serious health risk to you and your family, particularly if anyone has a weakened immune system.

  4. Pest Infestations

    Standing water from blocked drains can attract pests such as insects and rodents, which can then invade your home. This can create an unsanitary and uncomfortable living environment.

  5. Plumbing Damage

Over time, a blocked drain can put pressure on your pipes and cause them to crack or burst. This can lead to extensive damage to your plumbing system, which can be expensive to repair or replace.

How to take care of your drains

Taking care of your drains is an important part of home maintenance. Here are some tips to help keep your drains clean and clog-free:

Use a drain cover: Install a drain cover in your sink or shower to catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before it goes down the drain.

Avoid pouring grease down the drain: Grease and oil can solidify and clog your pipes. Instead, pour grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.

Use a plunger: A plunger can help to clear minor clogs. Make sure you have the right type of plunger for the drain you’re plunging and use a gentle, repetitive motion.

Use baking soda and vinegar: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain to help break up minor clogs and eliminate odours. Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush with hot water.

Avoid flushing non-degradable items down the toilet: Items such as wipes, dental floss, and feminine hygiene products should be disposed of in the trash, not flushed down the toilet.

Schedule regular drain cleaning: Professional drain cleaning services can help to prevent clogs and keep your drains flowing smoothly. It’s a good idea to have your drains cleaned every year or two.

Remember that prevention is key when it comes to drain care. By following these tips and being mindful of what goes down your drains, you can help to prevent clogs and avoid costly plumbing repairs.

Think you’ve got a blocked drain?

WMD offers emergency drain unblocking and high pressure water jetting services to customers in Manchester, Stockport, Warrington and Cheshire who are suffering from problematic drains that require professional attention immediately.

During the drain unblock, our engineers will work rapidly to minimise the disruption, and have your plumping back to full working health as soon as possible.

Call us today on 0800 024 8494!

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What Causes a Blocked Drain?

If you’ve got a blocked kitchen sink, a toilet that won’t flush, or water pooling in the shower, it’s likely you’ve got a blockage. Not only is a blocked drain an inconvenience, but if not dealt with quickly, can cause significant, costly problems.

What could begin as an unsavoury smell could quickly turn into drains overflowing around your property, disrupting your daily life and preventing simple essential tasks such as taking a bath and cleaning clothes. So, in order to help you avoid the persistent problems of a blocked drain, here at Watermains and Drains, we’ve put together some of the most common blocked drain causes, with advice on how you can easily prevent them, too.

What are the Signs of a Blocked Drain?

  • Discoloured water sitting in the garden

  • Unpleasant smells, indicating trapped and rotting waste

  • High rising toilets and sinks, which may overflow

  • Bath or shower gurgling and not flowing away properly

How Common are Blocked Drains?

While a clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing issues, it’s one not to be ignored. It may start as a minor issue, but can soon cause major problems resulting in corrosion, flooding, and sewage backup, for example.

Will a Blocked Drain Clear Itself?

It can be easy for homeowners to ignore the fact that their drains are clogged hoping that it will unclog itself, however that’s not always the case. It’s always best to get clogged or blocked drains checked by a professional as they can often get worse over time. In fact, thinking your blocked drain will clear itself may leave you with a drain that is completely blocked with water gushing into your home.

Rapid Emergency Callouts

Have an emergency? We have a rapid response team that can get to you quickly.

Call Now: 0808 253 3473

What Causes Blocked Drainage?

  1. Flushing Foreign Objects

One of the most common causes of a blocked drain is foreign objects being flushed down the toilet. From baby wipes and cotton pads, to sanitary products and too much toilet roll, it can be tempting to just flush these items away, however our drains aren’t built to handle it, which inevitably leads to blockages with very unpleasant results. Let’s face it, no one wants to deal with overflowing sewage, so be sure to position a waste basket near and be careful what you’re throwing down there!

  1. Hair & Soap Suds

Bathroom sinks, baths, and showers are easily subject to drain issues due to their tendency to get blocked up by hair and soap suds. As a daily routine, with many family members using the same space, this type of debris can culminate in your pipes and cause blocked or slow-running drains.

In an attempt to avoid this problem many place drain covers over plug holes to catch the strands of hair and prevent tangled drain pipes, preventing blockages and helping your drains run effectively for longer. We’d also recommend lifting your drain cover and removing any hairs after showering.

  1. Outdoor Debris

Leaves and debris from outside can be easily blown or washed into your outside drain, causing blockages. This is particularly an issue during Autumn and Winter, as well as during stormy weather.

Avoiding this problem completely it’s really an option, however one of the most effective ways you can prevent debris clogging your drains is to cover the drain entrances with a drain guard and tidying and sweeping your garden or outdoor space regularly. If the issue still presents itself, even with the prevention methods in place, then you may want to consider contacting an exterior drainage specialist who can assess and advise the best course of action.

  1. Tree Root Intrusions

The tiniest cracks or leaks in your drainage system can be an attraction for tree root ingress, encouraging tree roots to grow their way inside your plumbing system. This is highly damaging to your pipes, which not only obstructs water flow, but also causes significant pipe damage.

The best way to check your drains are healthy and working smoothly is by having a professional carry out a CCTV survey. A CCTV drain survey is where a small, flexible tube with a camera on the end is fed into your drainage system, showcasing video feed of the inside of the pipes.

  1. Food Remnants, Grease & Fat

Small pieces of leftover food being pushed down the kitchen sink can cause a blocked drain. This is an easily fixed problem by scraping the excess food remnants off your plate and into the rubbish before washing. We know it might seem obvious, but it is one of the most common causes of blockage, so be sure to bin before rinsing.

It’s not just food either, liquids such as grease and fat washed down your drains culminates in the pipes, forming what are referred to as ‘Fatbergs’. These fatbergs block the pipes and cause significant back-up problems. Just because it flows doesn’t mean it should go!

Suffering from Drain Blockage?

WMD offers emergency drain unblocking and high pressure water jetting services to customers in Manchester, Stockport, Warrington and Cheshire who are suffering from problematic drains that require professional attention without delay.

During the drain unblock, our engineers will act quickly to minimise the disruption, and have your property back to full flowing health as soon as possible. For extra peace of mind, once cleared we would also advise on a CCTV drain survey to identify the problem, so steps can be put in place to avoid the drain from blocking again in the future.

Call us today on 0800 024 8494!

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How to stop pipes freezing during the winter months

When a pipe freezes, pressure is put on the casing which can lead to leaks or even a burst pipe.

With the cost of living rising, Watermains & Drains understand that not everybody is able to leave their heating on to keep their water flowing. But there are plenty of ways that you can prevent them from freezing and causing any more damage than they need to.

Get your boiler serviced in summer

If your boiler isn’t running efficiently then water can sit stagnantly in the pipes which makes it more vulnerable to freezing. You should have your boiler serviced annually, but making sure this is done in the summer months before issues arise can prevent devastating damage from occurring over winter.

Insulate your pipes

Pipe lagging is relatively inexpensive and one of the most efficient ways of preventing your pipes from freezing in cold weather. Pipe insulation is tube-like and wraps around the outside of your water pipes. It should also come with a waterproof coating or layer to prevent it getting wet.

Weatherproof pipe insulation is easy to find in DIY stores and fit yourself. Simply take your pipe measurements and insulate your pipes before the weather starts to turn.

Make sure you pay attention to the following pipe areas:

  • Outside piping
  • Pipes in lofts, garages and basements
  • Water tanks

Keep the cold out

If you have pipes in unheated areas of the house, like your loft or garage, open doors to let some heat in. This is also encouraged if you have pipes in cupboards because heat can sometimes be blocked from getting to the pipes by cupboard doors.

Leave your heating on

If you are able to do so, leaving your heating set at a temperature above 7℃ can keep the water running smoothly through your pipes, especially when it is frosty outside.

Certain modern makes of boiler and smart thermostats are also programmed to turn your heating on if the water in your tank lowers below a certain temperature. If you are worried about your pipes, then it might be worth checking if your boiler does this, or ask your boiler serviceman.

Fix leaky taps

Leaky taps can cause your pipes to freeze quicker, and cause a blockage in the tap itself. They have also been known to cause overflows due to frozen pipes keeping water clogged in certain areas.

So make sure all of your taps are fully off, and get your leaky taps fixed before winter arrives.

Turn your water system off

If you’re planning on going on holiday over winter, you might consider switching your water system off entirely. You could also try draining the water from your system before you go away so that there’s no chance of it freezing in your pipes whilst you’re unable to tend to any potential leaks.

If your pipes have been damaged due to a freeze then Watermains & Drains are on hand to fix the problem. Our comprehensive drain repairs and drain installation engineers have vast experience responding to frozen pipes, leaks and burst pipes and can get your water mains up and running again in no time.

If you require our services, fill out our contact form to receive your no obligation quote, or contact us by phone if you have an emergency.

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How to tell if a water pipe is leaking underground

Are you concerned about an underground leak?

If you are, you shouldn’t ignore it, an underground water leak can damage your home or businesses, leading to costly repairs.

To help you detect a water leak, here at Watermains and Drains, we’ve shared some common signs of underground water leaks (internal and external) below. However, if you’re confident there’s a problem, the best thing to do is give an expert a call.

If you’d like us to locate and repair your leak, we offer lead pipe replacements,leak detection, drainage repairs and reactive call out services in the event of an emergency.

Call Now: 0800 024 8494

Signs of a leak underground internally

You may have an underground water leak inside your property if you notice the following signs:

  • An obvious drop in water pressure when using plumbing appliances such as your taps
  • Splashing or hissing noises
  • An increase of mould or insects in your home
  • A sewage smell, odd odour or dirty looking water
  • A steadily increasing water bill over the last few bills (without alteration in household water usage)

<h2″>Signs of a leak underground externally

You may have an underground water leak outside your property if you notice the following signs:

  • Wet spots in your lawn or garden
  • Potholes or sinkholes
  • Sewage or mouldy smells
  • Breaking or cracking of paved areas (such as your driveway)
  • Flooded water around a sprinkler head
  • A steadily increasing water bill over the last few bills (without alteration in household water usage)

How to detect leak underground

Test for a main water line leak

Follow these following steps:

  1. Turn off all water appliances inside and outside your home and ensure no one in the household uses them while you carry out the test.
  1. Locate your water metre (usually found in a box in front of your house).
  1. Read your water metre. If you have an analog water metre, look for a silver wheel or small red triangular dial. If either one is moving, you have a leak. For a digital water metre, shine a torch or light on the flow screen and look to see if it is flashing a number above zero. If it is, you have a leak.

How do I know if the water main leak is inside or outside my home?

  1. Locate your home’s water shutoff valve. This could be under the sink, in a garage, basement or outside wall.
  1. Close the valve to shut off the water supply to your house.
  1. Go back to your water metre. If the leak indicator stops moving, then you have a leak inside the house. If the leak indicator continues to move, then the leak is outside between the metre and the house.

Watermains & Drains have highly skilled leak detection engineers on hand to respond to emergencies in the North West, Midlands, West Yorkshire and North Wales.

Call Now: 0800 024 8494

If your pipes burst underground it’s natural to panic, but if caught early, it can be fixed relatively easily and save you a lot of money in damage repairs. It’s important to keep an eye on the areas mentioned above while looking and listening for signs before it’s too late.

If you suspect an underground water leak, contact our leak detection engineers in Manchester and Cheshire here at Watermains and Drains, and we’ll have the leak detected and resolved in no time, without causing disruption to your residential or commercial property.

Call us today: 0800 024 8494

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What to do when your water pipes burst

Every second counts when you have water gushing from a burst pipe but it’s important not to panic and make rash decisions otherwise you could risk making it worse.

Instead, take a deep breath, stay calm and follow these steps from Watermains & Drains:

1. Switch off the water

When a pipe bursts in your home, the first thing you need to do is switch off your water immediately. Splits can happen anywhere in your pipes, so trying to find the source of the leak while water is still flowing from the split will take time, and do more damage to your property.

To do this, you will need to locate one of two stop taps on your property; the internal stop tap or the external stop tap. Stop taps look like spoutless taps and sit between two lengths of pipe.

How to find an internal stop tap:

An internal stop tap is usually located in any of the following places:

  • Kitchen cupboard
  • Downstairs bathroom or toilet
  • Under the stairs
  • Garage or utility room
  • Cellar

If you’re unable to find an internal stop tap, you’ll need to locate the external stop tap.

How to find an external stop tap:

An external stop tap can usually be found under a cover on the path or road outside your house. You may also find it:

  • Located near your property’s water meter
  • At the end of your road. This is common if you live in an old property, or if you share a water supply with your neighbours, like a strip of terraces

Once you’ve found the stop tap, turn the valve clockwise slowly to close it. It may take a few minutes for the flow of water to cease altogether. This will stop the leak from getting worse while you contact a contractor for repairs.

2. Switch off electrical appliances

You need to turn off the electrical system before you clean up the damage to avoid the situation becoming dangerous. The electrical panel in your property will usually be located in the basement, cupboard, garage or utility room.

If the leak is blocking your access to the electrical panel, call an electrician immediately.

You should also consider removing any electrical appliances from the area until the burst pipe has been fixed.

3. Drain the taps

Turn on a sink faucet to drain the remaining water as quickly as possible. This can also relieve pressure caused by water build up that could have caused your leak.

4. Phone a contractor as soon as possible

As soon as your property is out of immediate danger from the leak, contact a contractor. The sooner you contact them, the sooner you’ll be able to book a slot for your pipe to be fixed.

Your plumber may be able to recommend ways to temporarily prevent your pipe from leaking until they arrive to permanently fix the damage.

While you may be tempted to fix the leak yourself, it is always best to bring in a professional as they’ll be able to fully assess the extent of the damage. It is also worth noting that a burst pipe can be an indication that your pipes need a full replacement.

Watermains & Drains have highly skilled leak detection engineers on hand to respond to emergencies in the North West, Midlands, West Yorkshire and North Wales.

5. Document and photograph the damage

Before you clean up the leak, you should photograph the damage to gain evidence for your insurance claim. Even if your insurance provider doesn’t require photographic evidence, it is always worth having just in case.

6. Clean excess water

Mould and rotting furniture caused by damp can be even worse to manage permanently than the leak itself so you need to clean static water to ensure minimal damage.

Check the full vicinity of the leak and other areas that may have been affected by the pipe bursting and clean the water thoroughly.

7. Warm up the area

Use heaters or a hairdryer to heat up the area and help the room dry faster. You should also consider opening cupboards and doors to allow circulation through the affected area. This will minimise water damage further.

8. Temporarily fix the leak

It can take a few days for a plumber or contractor to arrive, so it is possible to temporarily stall the leak until they are able to fix it. However, you should only do this if the leak is small, easily accessible and if you feel confident enough.

You could:

  • Secure the hole with electrical or duct tape once the water has fully dried. Secure the tape with a hose or sleeve clamp.
  • Plug the hole using epoxy putty. Wait for the putty to harden before switching the water mains back on

We recommend explaining the extent of the leak to your plumber and asking if they would advise putting a temporary fix in place.

9. Take steps to prevent further leaks in future

At Watermains & Drains, we know that experiencing a burst pipe in your home is a vastly unpleasant experience, and you won’t want to repeat it in future.

Try following these steps to prevent further leaks from occurring in the future:

  • Insulate pipes to prevent water freezing
  • Seal leaks that allow cold air into your home
  • Fix dripping taps
  • Keep a look out for smaller leaks before they escalate into burst pipes
  • Replace old or weak pipes in your home that are susceptible to leaks

If a pipe has burst in your property, contact our leak detection engineers in Manchester and Cheshire as soon as your property is out of immediate danger. Alternatively, our water supply pipe installers can update your waterworks to prevent leaks from occurring in the future.

Call us today: 0800 024 8494

Moling and Trenchless Moling
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Moling and Trenchless Moling

Here at Watermains and Drains, we understand more than anyone how important it is for you to get general maintenance done with as little hassle as possible. That is why we have our own moling equipment which makes it easier than ever for us to install a new watermain without having to excavate your lawn or your driveway. If you want to find out more about trenchless moling, and moling in general, then take a look below.

What is Moling and Trenchless Moling?

Moling, and trenchless moling is a technique that is used to lay down pipes without having to worry about building trenches. It is a very efficient method of installing pipes and you won’t have to worry about your garden being dug up either. Moling is one of the least invasive installation techniques out there and our team have the ability to bore under lawns, driveways, obstacles and more. If you want to find out more about moling or our service, then simply take a look below.

What are the Benefits of Moling?

Some of the benefits of moling include the fact that it is environmentally friendly. It requires minimal excavation, and it doesn’t cause any disruption either. It provides minimal disruption and barely any road closures. Moling reduces the amount of time that it takes to install water pipes and it also saves a considerable amount of time, not to mention that it is a brilliant way to reduce human resources too.

How does Moling Work?

During the process, we will use a machine known as a mole. This will force its way through the soil. To start the process, we will dig a hole that is around 2 metres deep. A hole this deep can be dug without the use of machinery. We will then dig a destination hole, and this is where the mole will come out of the other side. So why is a moling machine named as such? The mole itself was named after the activities of a mole, as they burrow into the soil. Pulsing, compressed air causes the mole to hammer against the soil, digging a tunnel. When the mole has passed the designated route, the pipe can then be pulled, right through to the destination.

Ensuring a Successful Completion

To ensure that the moling is completed successfully, we will first make sure that you have an appropriate soil type. We are very experienced when it comes to moling and we know that the soil type can have a huge impact on whether or not the moling process goes well. This is why we will always assess the soil first before moving ahead with the process.

If you want to find out more about our moling process or if you want to see how we can help you then please get in touch today. We would love to help you and we can also give you a free quote for any of our moling services too. We can’t wait to hear from you.

Your Guide To Water Supply Pipe Installation
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Your Guide To Water Supply Pipe Installation

Whether you are building your dream property, renovating an existing house, or you have issues with your current water supply, you may be considering water supply pipe installation. In this guide, Watermains & Drains UK will reveal everything you need to know.

Considerations for water supply pipe installation

There is a lot that needs to be considered when it comes to laying new water supply pipes. This is why it is important to work with professional plumbers for a task like this.

All of the fittings and materials used must comply with the 1999 Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations.

Here are some of the different elements that need to be carefully considered:

  • Trenches – Ideally, the trench needs to be lined and the pipes should be covered with soft earth or sand – not sharp rubble. There should not be any open ends left to stop the ingress of contaminants. All of the pipework also needs to be laid in the trench and installed by a WaterSafe approved contractor before the backfilling, otherwise, you won’t get the approval that is needed to connect.
  • Choosing suitable materials – Next, it is vital that you assess the ground conditions before water supply pipe materials are selected. After all, the overall environment is going to play a huge role in determining which pipes are the most suitable Medium Density Polyethene (MDPE) is one of the most commonly used pipe materials, and it complies with BS6572. Nevertheless, some chemicals like creosote, petrol, or oil can permeate MDPE supply pipes, which poses a risk in terms of the quality of the water. So-called ‘barrier’ pipes and suitable fittings need to be used if the ground is contaminated with these chemicals via spillage or storage.
  • Pressure testing – It is best practice to ensure the private supply pipe is laid in a manner that avoids joints. Where such joints are unavoidable, the installation needs to be a pressure test and it also needs to be disinfected before there is any connection to the water mains. For both external and internal pipework, the test pressure for any pipe needs to be 1.5 times the maximum working pressure that any fitting or pipe is subjected to. After any pressure test, you must disinfect the pipes, and analytical testing needs to be used to support this. Again, this all shows why it is imperative to work with seasoned and approved professionals when it comes to this.
  • Barrier pipe – A barrier pipe is a pipe that has been reinforced for the purpose of protecting water supplies against other kinds of contaminants that can permeate standard MDPE pipes and put our water supply at great risk. There are a number of different kinds of barrier pipes available for people, including multi-layer plastic with a metal layer, plastic-coated copper, and ductile iron. It is imperative to make sure that the barrier pipe is compliant with BS 8588.

As you can see, there is a lot that needs to be considered when it comes to water supply pipe installation. We hope that this has helped you to get a better understanding of the key areas of consideration when it comes to installing water supply pipes at any property.

Why should you change old water supply pipes?

If the plumbing in your building is old, it probably has water pipes that have been made from iron or lead. If the latter is the case, they definitely need to be replaced.

Lead pipes have highly corrosive and toxic elements that leak into the drinking water system of the property, which can have a negative impact on your health and potentially even result in death. So, if you have lead pipes on your property, replacement is something that is required urgently.

In terms of iron pipes, as time goes on, they will rust and corrode, minimizing their effectiveness, which is why a replacement should also be considered.

Final words on water supply pipes installation

So there you have it: everything that you need to know about water supply pipes installation. We hope that this has helped you to get a better understanding of the process of installing new pipes and changing ones that no longer serve their purpose effectively. If you have any queries or you are ready to make the most of this service, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Watermains & Drains UK today.

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6 Ways To Find Hidden Water Leaks

Early detection of a water leak will not only reduce the chances of potential damage, but also save you money too. Here at Watermains & Drains UK Ltd, we don’t like disasters, so we’ve put together a guide taking you through signs that you may have a leak and when you should consider contacting a qualified water industry approved contractor (WIAPS).

  1. Check your water meter

One of the main ways to tell if you have a leak in a section of your plumbing is to check the water meter. To do this, you’ll first have to turn off all the water in your home. Shut off all faucets, and make sure the dishwasher, washing machine or other water connected appliances are not running. Then, watch the meter and check if it begins to change.

If it does change, you likely have a fast-moving leak.

If the meter doesn’t change straight away, wait two hours and check it again. If at this point you spot a change, despite the water still being turned off, you could be dealing with a slower leak.

The leak could be anywhere after the meter, or even underground.

  1. Look at your usage

Checking your winter water usage is vital when running a home, as it could highlight a leak is occurring somewhere in your home. If a family of four is using more than 12,000 gallons of water per month, then the chances are there is a serious leak problem somewhere in your plumbing system.

  1. Monitor your bill

If your water bill consistently rises, but your water use habits haven’t changed, a leak may be to blame. Gather up your bills from the past few months and compare them. Your water bill should remain within the same range month to month. If you spot a significant difference, it’s best to have a professional plumber make a thorough check of all the pipes. A warm spot on the floor, or the sound of water running need imeddiate professional attention.

  1. Food coloring test

Your toilet can actually account for up to 30% of your water use, therefore it’s important you ensure it’s running properly. To test for leaks, add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank and wait 10 minutes. If the color shows up in your bowl, then you have a leak allowing water to flow from the tank to your drain without ever flushing the bowl.

  1. Check exterior usage

It’s not just the interior of your home you need to watch out for, but the exterior too. Check your outside spigots by attaching a garden hose; if water seeps through the connection while the hose is running, replace the rubber hose gasket and check to see if all connections are tight.

Consider calling a professional once a year to check your irrigation system, if you have one.

Did you know? Even a small leak could be wasting 6,300 gallons of water per month.

  1. Common sense

Ensure you regularly check the back of cabinets and under basins for any signs of mold or foul smells that may indicate a leak as efficient attention could save you a lot of money, and time, in repairs. Consider having a professional plumber make an annual inspection of your home to check for leaks or potential plumbing problems.

If your home is over 25 years old, you may want to be particularly vigilant as your plumbing system may be reaching it’s life expectancy. Inspect all accessible connections at the water heater, pumps, washing machine hoses and valves for oxidation or discoloration – clear signs of a slow leak.

Turning a blind eye to a leaking water main could cause serious problems to your property such as damp or subsidence, we would advise that any known leaks are investigated and fixed as a matter of urgency.

Leaking water main?

At Watermains & Drains UK Ltd, we will find and fix your underground bursts with minimal disruption. We offer customers with expert water and drainage solutions – from new water main installations and lead pipe replacements, to leak detection, drainage repairs and reactive call out service in the event of an emergency.

Call us today 0800 024 8494

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Lead Pipe Replacement: 5 Signs to look for

At Watermains & Drains, we are dedicated to delivering expert water and drainage solutions and this includes lead pipe replacements. One question that we commonly get asked is: “how do I know when its time for my lead pipe to be replaced?” and our experts have collated the top 5 signs to watch out for.

Most pipes are designed to last decades, however if you have an older property or are in the process of completing a renovation it is important to check your pipes for the following signs to see if they need to be replaced. So, lets get to it – what is the first sign that you should look out for when it comes to lead pipe replacement?

1. Look out for cracks

This may sound like an obvious one, but looking out for cracks in your pipes is one of the first things that you should check for. Noticing a crack in a pipe is a pretty easy spot and you should be able to see water dripping as it passes through the pipe. If the pipe isn’t exposed, you should still check for any potential cracks in the system as leaks can cause more serious damage over extended periods of time.

One tip we suggest that you follow is to check for cracks in pipes if you notice mould, a wet wall or wet flooring.

2. Signs of corrosion

Another sign to watch out for is signs of corrosion round your property. One way to figure out if your pipes are corroding is if your drains or sink start to become clogged more often. It may be a case that other family members aren’t watching what they are putting down the sink. It could also however, be that your pipe is corroding from the inside out.

Once corrosion has set into the pipe, it isn’t a matter of if you should replace your pipe – it will be a matter of when you will need to replace it.

3. Decreased water pressure

This is another easy sign to spot that you may need your lead pipe replacing. If your water pressure is suddenly not as powerful, it could be a sign that you are having some issues with your pipes.

The trick to watch out for with decreased water pressure is that it is over a sustained period. If your pressure has dropped but only momentarily, you should monitor it over the coming weeks as it could be an issue in your local area.

If your water pressure is resolved after a few weeks, it could be that you need to replace your pipes as the old pipes may not be able to handle the water pressure that you need in your home.

4. Discoloured water

If your water is brown or yellow – it is definitely time to check for a replacement of your pipes. You water should be clear and if it looks like it has sediment floating through it or it is looks discoloured in any way, it could be a sign that your pipes are corroding.

It could also be possible that there is an issue within your local water supply, so make sure that you check with your local water supplier if it doesn’t clear.

5. Old pipes

Having old pipes can be dangerous and often older pipes can be made from harmful chemicals that can get into your water and along with repeated exposure can cause damage to your health including learning disabilities in kids and kidney problems.

How long should pipes last?

Different pipes have varying lifespans and this is how often they should be replaced:

  • Cast iron pipes: 75-100 years
  • Copper pipes: 50 years
  • Brass pipes: 40 years
  • Galvanised steel pipes: 20-50 years

If you have noticed any of the above signs, it could be time to get your lead pipes replaced. Here at Watermains & Drains Ltd, we have a professionals on hand who can give you advice about your procedure.

Call us today 0800 024 8494