Stopping your money from going down the drain
6 reasons to maintain and clean your drains and gullies:
1. Preventing Costly Repairs
• Savings on Repairs:
• Clearing and maintaining drains regularly can prevent blockages and structural damage.
• The average cost of clearing a blocked drain in the UK is around £75–£150 for standard jobs, while emergency repairs for severe blockages or pipe damage can cost £300–£500.
• If a drain requires excavation or relining, costs can exceed £1,000–£5,000.
• Routine maintenance helps avoid these unexpected costs.
2. Avoiding Property Damage
• Savings on Property Repairs:
• Flooding caused by blocked drains can lead to water damage, with repair costs ranging from £1,000 to £10,000+, depending on the extent of the damage.
• Insurance claims for water damage can increase premiums, adding to long-term costs.
• Clear drains protect your home’s foundations, walls, and garden landscaping.
3. Lower Utility bills
How efficent water flow can lower your utility bills:
• Blocked or partially obstructed drains slow the flow of wastewater, causing backups in sinks, toilets, and showers. This can lead to increased water usage as you may need to flush toilets multiple times or run taps longer to clear water buildup.
• Clear drains ensure that water flows freely and is efficiently drained, reducing unnecessary water usage. For households with water meters, this translates to lower water bills.
• Potential Savings: On average, UK households with water meters save £20–£50 annually by maintaining efficient water systems.
4 . Lower energy bills
• Appliances like washing machines and dishwashers rely on clear drains to function effectively. If the drain is partially blocked, the appliance may take longer to complete a cycle or require additional energy to pump water through the blockage.
• Properly maintained drains ensure these appliances operate at their designed efficiency levels, lowering electricity usage.
• Potential Savings: Reducing energy waste through efficient appliance operation can save £30–£100 annually, depending on usage and the severity of blockages.
5. Leak Preventions
• Blocked drains can cause pressure buildup in pipes, leading to leaks or bursts. Even small leaks can significantly increase water usage over time, especially for homes on metered water.
• According to Water UK, a dripping tap or small leak can waste up to 5,500 litres of water per year, adding around £25–£50 to your annual water bill. Preventing leaks by keeping drains clear can eliminate this unnecessary expense.
6. Avoiding Overflows and Emergency Callouts
• Severe drain blockages can cause wastewater to overflow, potentially requiring emergency intervention to restore proper flow. Emergency plumbers in the UK typically charge £150–£250 for callouts outside regular hours.
• Regular maintenance prevents these emergencies, saving money and reducing stress.
Practical Steps to Maximise Savings
• Install Drain Covers: Prevent debris, grease, and hair from entering your drains.
• Use Enzymatic Drain Cleaners: These are environmentally friendly and effective for clearing minor blockages without damaging pipes.
• Monitor Water Usage: Use apps or devices like the “SaveWater SaveMoney” app to track usage and spot irregularities early.
By proactively maintaining your drains, you not only prevent costly issues but also improve water and energy efficiency, saving up to £200 annually on utilities and related expenses in the UK.
Get in touch with NIS for a free site survey.