Periods of heavy rain can put pressure on household drainage systems, especially in older properties. When water struggles to drain away, you may notice slow sinks, gurgling pipes, or standing water outside. Acting quickly can help prevent damage and keep things flowing smoothly.
Start by checking your gutters and downpipes
Leaves, moss and debris often build up unnoticed, and a downpour can overwhelm them. Clearing blockages allows water to move freely away from your home rather than spilling down walls or pooling at the base of the property.
Inside the house, listen for pipe noises or slow-moving water
These can be warning signs that the system is under strain. Try pouring boiling water down sinks to clear build-ups of fat or soap scum. For more stubborn blockages, a plunger or enzyme-based drain cleaner can help without damaging pipes. You can perform simple tasks that can prevent shower drain clogs at home, including pouring hot water down the drain.
If the problem persists, call a professional drainage engineer
They can use CCTV cameras to identify issues such as collapsed pipes or root intrusion, which are common in wet weather. If you require a CCTV drain survey Loughborough, get in touch with professionals such as //www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/loughborough.
Inspect drains and gullies
Heavy rain can wash soil, gravel and twigs into grates, causing blockages. Lifting the cover and removing debris with gloves or a drain rod can make a difference. If the water rises instead of draining away, avoid using indoor appliances like washing machines until the issue is resolved.
