Drains are an essential but often overlooked component of any commercial property. They quietly do their job, efficiently carrying away wastewater and debris. However, like any other part of your property, they require maintenance and attention to ensure they function properly. Ignoring drain issues can lead to costly repairs and disruptions to your business operations. So, when should a commercial company consider calling United Drains for professional help? Here are five telltale signs that it’s time to pick up the phone:

Slow Drainage
One of the most common early warning signs of a drainage issue is slow drainage. If you notice that sinks, toilets, or floor drains are taking longer to empty than usual, it may indicate a blockage in your drainage system. While it’s tempting to try DIY fixes, persistent slow drainage could be a symptom of a more significant problem that requires expert assessment.

Unpleasant Odours
Foul odours emanating from your drains are not just unpleasant; they can also be a sign of trapped debris or sewage backup. When bad smells persist, it’s a clear indicator that something is amiss in your drainage system. United Drains can quickly identify the source of the odour and recommend appropriate solutions to eliminate it.

Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds
Strange noises coming from your drains can be a sign of air trapped in the pipes, usually caused by blockages. Gurgling or bubbling sounds can also be an early warning of potential drainage problems. These noises shouldn’t be ignored, as they can develop into more severe issues if left unaddressed.

Water Backup
If you notice water or sewage backing up into sinks, or toilets, it’s a definite cause for concern. This can indicate a blockage or obstruction somewhere in your plumbing system, and it’s essential to call in professionals like United Drains to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly.

Exterior Drainage Problems
Drainage issues aren’t always confined to the interior of your commercial property. Exterior drainage problems, such as standing water, flooding, or waterlogged landscapes, can be equally problematic. These issues can result from blocked or damaged drainage systems on your property. United Drains can assess the situation and offer solutions to prevent further damage to your property.

Drains play a critical role in maintaining a clean and functional commercial space. Ignoring the signs of drain problems can lead to extensive damage, inconvenience, and costly repairs. When you notice any of the aforementioned signs in your commercial property, it’s wise to reach out to professionals like United Drains on 02036376688. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and resolve drainage issues efficiently, ensuring that your business can continue to run smoothly without interruption. Remember, addressing drain problems early can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

Schools and universities are the heart of education, nurturing the minds of our future generations. These educational buildings provide a safe and conducive environment for learning, but often, the behind-the-scenes maintenance goes unnoticed. One crucial aspect of maintenance that demands our attention is the upkeep of drainage systems. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of maintaining drains in schools and universities and explore how drainage management can be a game-changer.

The Importance of Drain Maintenance

Health and Hygiene
Proper drain maintenance is vital for maintaining a healthy and hygienic environment in educational grounds. Blocked or neglected drains can lead to water stagnation, which is a breeding ground for pests like mosquitoes. Stagnant water can also result in foul odours, making the learning environment unpleasant and potentially harmful to students’ health.

Preventing Water Damage
Poorly maintained drains can lead to water leakage and flooding in buildings. Water damage not only harms infrastructure but also disrupts the learning process. It can result in expensive repairs and replacements that divert resources away from education.

Environmental Impact
Neglected drains can contribute to pollution in nearby water bodies. Debris, chemicals, and contaminants that flow into drains can harm aquatic ecosystems and have a detrimental impact on local water quality. By maintaining drains, schools and unis can play a role in environmental protection.

Safety Concerns
Slip and fall accidents are a common consequence of water accumulation from drainage issues. These accidents can lead to injuries among students, staff, and visitors. Properly maintained drains help prevent such accidents and create a safer environment.

To address these critical issues effectively, schools and unis must adopt an approach to drain maintenance. Here’s how such an approach can make a significant difference:

Regular Inspections
Regular drain inspections can identify issues early on, preventing them from escalating into more significant problems. United Drains ensures that inspections are thorough and consistent, reducing the risk of missed issues.

Cost Efficiency
United Drains can offer a PPM plan so that you can get regular maintenance for a set price. This is particularly beneficial for educational boards, which often have tight budgets. By working together, schools and universities can allocate funds more efficiently to ensure drains remain in good condition.

Expert Advice & Help
United Drains have over 35 years of experience within the drainage and plumbing industry. All of our engineers and staff are highly trained and have certifications within this industry. We are on call 24/7, 365 days a year, so if you have any questions or concerns, you can give us a call and we will be able to answer you straight away. We also can get to you within 4 hours if you have any issues within the building with drainage or plumbing.

Maintaining drains in schools and universities is more than just a maintenance task; it’s a responsibility that impacts the health, safety, and overall well-being of students and staff. Using United Drains for your drain maintenance can help keep on top of this, and also promotes collaboration and sustainability. By prioritising the upkeep of drainage systems and working together, we can ensure that your buildings remain in the best condition. Call us on 02036376688 or email us at info@uniteddrains.co.uk for more information.

Maintaining a successful business involves juggling countless responsibilities, from customer satisfaction to financial stability. Among these, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the drainage system. A properly functioning drainage system is essential for the smooth operation of your business, as it ensures a clean and safe environment. In this blog, we’ll explore why drainage inspections are an essential investment for your business.

Prevent Costly Disruptions

Imagine a scenario where your business grinds to a halt due to a drainage system failure. Flooding, foul odours, and sewage backups can wreak havoc on your premises, leading to expensive repairs, potential health hazards, and, worst of all, temporary closure. Regular drainage inspections can help identify potential issues before they escalate, allowing you to take proactive measures and prevent these disruptive and costly incidents.

Maintain Regulatory Compliance

Businesses are often subject to local regulations and environmental standards related to drainage and wastewater management. Failing to meet these requirements can result in fines, penalties, and even legal actions. By conducting routine drainage inspections, you can ensure that your business remains in compliance with the relevant regulations, protecting both your reputation and your finances.

Enhance Customer Experience

Whether you’re running a restaurant, a hotel, or a retail store, the customer experience is paramount. A blocked or foul-smelling drainage system can quickly turn customers away and tarnish your brand’s image. Unpleasant odours and unsightly conditions can create a negative impression that’s hard to shake off. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that your business premises remain clean, inviting, and comfortable for your customers.

Safeguard Employee Health

A poorly maintained drainage system can pose health risks to your employees. Stagnant water, mould growth, and sewage backups can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritations, and other health problems. By prioritising drainage inspections, you create a safe and healthy work environment, boosting employee morale and productivity.

Prolong Infrastructure Lifespan

Just like any other infrastructure, drainage systems have a limited lifespan. However, proper care and maintenance can significantly extend their longevity. Regular inspections allow you to identify wear and tear, corrosion, and potential weaknesses early on. By addressing these issues promptly, you can avoid premature replacements and save on long-term maintenance costs.

Environmental Responsibility

In today’s world, environmental sustainability is a critical consideration for any business. A malfunctioning drainage system can contribute to water pollution, soil contamination, and other environmental hazards. By conducting drainage inspections and promptly addressing any issues, you play a role in safeguarding the local ecosystem and demonstrating your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Don’t overlook the significance of a well-maintained drainage system for your business. Regular drainage inspections are an investment in preventing costly disruptions, maintaining compliance, enhancing customer experience, ensuring employee health, extending infrastructure lifespan, and upholding environmental responsibility. By partnering with professionals like United Drains for comprehensive drainage solutions, you can safeguard your business’s operations, reputation, and future success. Remember, a proactive approach today can save you from major headaches down the line.

Grease Traps are designed to trap and separate fats, oils and grease (commonly referred to as FOG) from wastewater before it enters the main sewer system. It is commonly used in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food processing facilities where large amounts of grease are produced.

In our blog, we go into why it is important to have a grease trap and also how you can help with the maintenance of a grease trap.

Why should my commercial kitchen have a grease trap? Here are 6 reasons why:
1) Prevents Drain Blockages:
Grease and fats from cooking operations can solidify and accumulate in drains and pipes, leading to blockages. A grease trap intercepts and captures these substances before they enter the plumbing system, preventing blockages.

2) Protects the Plumbing System:
Grease can cause significant damage to pipes and plumbing infrastructure over time. It can coat the interior of pipes, reducing their capacity and causing corrosion. By installing a grease trap, you protect the longevity and functionality of your plumbing system.

3) Compliance with Regulations:
Many jurisdictions have specific regulations and codes that require commercial kitchens to have grease traps. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid penalties, fines, and potential closure of the business.

4) Environmental Benefits:
Grease, when improperly disposed of, can find its way into the wastewater system and eventually contaminate rivers, lakes, and other water bodies. Grease traps help to minimise this environmental impact by capturing grease before it reaches the wastewater treatment facilities.

5) Reduces Odours and Pest Problems:
Accumulated grease can emit unpleasant odours, attracting pests such as rats, cockroaches, and flies. A grease trap helps control these issues by containing and preventing the release of foul odours, thereby maintaining a cleaner and more hygienic environment.

6) Improves Kitchen Efficiency:
By preventing blockages, a grease trap ensures that the kitchen operations can run smoothly without interruptions. It reduces the downtime required for plumbing repairs, allowing the staff to focus on food preparation and service.

In summary, a grease trap is crucial for maintaining a functional and compliant commercial kitchen while protecting the environment and promoting food safety and hygiene.

What are the best practices for ensuring effective maintenance on Grease Traps?

Regular inspection: – Schedule routine inspections to assess the condition of the grease trap. Check for signs of grease buildup, such as a thick layer of grease or a reduced capacity for trapping grease. Regular inspections allow you to identify issues early and take appropriate action.

Follow a cleaning schedule: – Develop a regular cleaning schedule based on the size of your grease trap and the volume of grease generated by your business. Larger grease traps may require more frequent cleaning. Consult with United Drains to determine the appropriate cleaning intervals.

Proper disposal of trapped grease: – When cleaning the grease trap, ensure that the trapped grease is disposed of correctly. Grease should be collected and disposed of in accordance with local regulations. Avoid pouring grease down drains or disposing of it in the bin, as this can lead to environmental issues and blocked pipes.

Train staff on proper waste disposal: – Educate your employees about the importance of proper waste disposal and its impact on the grease trap. Provide clear instructions on what should and should not be poured down the drains. Discourage the disposal of oils, fats, and solid food waste in sinks and drains, as these can contribute to grease buildup in the trap.

Maintain records: – Keep a record of grease trap inspections, cleanings, and any maintenance or repairs performed. This documentation can be useful for demonstrating compliance with regulations and can help track the condition and performance of the grease trap over time.

Seek professional assistance: – While basic maintenance tasks can be handled internally, it is advisable to engage a professional grease trap service provider for regular cleanings and inspections. United Drains have the expertise and equipment to thoroughly clean and maintain the grease trap, ensure its optimal performance.

Give us a call on 02036376688 or email us, info@uniteddrains.co.uk and we will get someone out to you as soon as possible.

When it comes to waste management, one essential component often goes unnoticed: tanker services in drainage. Tankers play a critical role in maintaining clean and functional drainage systems. In this blog, we will explore the importance of tanker services in drainage, their key benefits, and how they contribute to efficient waste management practices.

Understanding Tanker Services in Drainage:

Tanker services in drainage involve the use of specialised vehicles, commonly known as vacuum tankers, to extract various types of waste and debris from drainage systems. These systems include sewers, stormwater drains, gullies, and other underground or surface channels. Tanker services are primarily focused on preventing blockages, minimising flooding risks, and ensuring the smooth flow of wastewater and stormwater.

Key Benefits of Tanker Services in Drainage:

Preventing Blockages and Flooding:

One of the primary functions of tanker services is to prevent blockages within drainage systems. Accumulated debris, silt, and other waste materials can obstruct the flow of water, leading to localised flooding and potential damage to infrastructure. By using powerful suction mechanisms, tanker services efficiently remove these materials, reducing the risk of blockages and subsequent flooding.

Maintaining Clean and Efficient Drainage Systems:

Regular maintenance of drainage systems is crucial for their optimal performance. Tanker services help to keep drains and sewers clean by removing accumulated sediment, oil, grease, and other substances. By proactively addressing these issues, tanker services help to maintain the overall efficiency of drainage systems, reducing the need for costly repairs and ensuring the longevity of infrastructure.

Environmental Protection:

Efficient waste management practices are essential for environmental protection. Tanker services play a vital role in this regard by collecting and disposing of hazardous and non-hazardous waste in a responsible and environmentally friendly manner. Their proper disposal practices prevent pollutants from entering water bodies and protect ecosystems from potential harm.

Applications of Tanker Services in Drainage:

Sewer Cleaning and Maintenance:

Sewers are an integral part of urban infrastructure, and tanker services are crucial for their upkeep. By removing accumulated debris and sediment, tanker services prevent sewer blockages and reduce the risk of sewage backups and overflows. Routine sewer cleaning and maintenance contribute to the overall health and functionality of the sewer system.

Gully Emptying:

Gullies are small surface-level drains that collect rainwater from roads and pavements. Tanker services are employed to empty these gullies, removing accumulated dirt, leaves, and other debris. Regular gully emptying prevents waterlogging on roads, reduces the risk of accidents, and maintains safe traffic conditions.

Industrial Waste Removal:

Industrial facilities often generate large volumes of waste, including hazardous substances. Tanker services equipped with specialized tanks and handling capabilities are employed for the safe removal and transportation of these wastes. This ensures compliance with environmental regulations and protects both workers and the surrounding environment from potential harm.

The Future of Tanker Services in Drainage:

As we move towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future, the field of tanker services in drainage is also evolving. Innovations such as automated robotic systems and advanced sensors are being integrated into tanker vehicles, enhancing their efficiency and accuracy in waste removal and maintenance tasks. These advancements contribute to improved environmental protection, cost-effectiveness, and increased productivity.

Tanker services in drainage may go unnoticed, but their contribution to efficient waste management practices is invaluable. From preventing blockages and flooding to maintaining clean and functional drainage systems, these services are helping commercial businesses keep running with minimal disruption. United Drains have 2 tankers of their own and provide services throughout the South East and the South of England. Give us a call on tel:02036376688 or email us info@uniteddrains.co.uk.

Businesses sometimes forget that it’s important to keep their drains clean. You can do this with a high-pressure water jetting machine which has been proven to be an effective method for quickly removing difficult blockages.

In this blog, we take a look at what high-pressure water jetting is, how effective and beneficial it is to do and why all businesses should book this service regularly.

What is High-Pressure Water Jetting?
High-pressure water jetting works by using a powerful hose that shoots out pressurised jets of water which is enough force to break up, dislodge and remove blockages.

Clearing pipes that are heavily blocked by debris or other build-ups is hard to do using traditional methods, but a high-pressure water jetting machine is able to cut through tree roots and other aggressive blockages.

Types of High-Pressure Water Jetting
High-Pressure Water Jetting comes in a variety of types and sizes that suit different applications. The type of water jetting you will need will depend on the type of blockage that you have, the size of the pipe, and the outcome of this. The most common types of water jetting are:

Conventional Water Jetting – this is a high-pressure stream of water that is the most effective at removing most types of blockages.

Rotary Water Jetting – This is the most powerful and works by rotating a stream of pressurised water, which removes really tough and compact blockages in pipes.

Sewer Jetting – This is designed to tackle larger sewer lines and utilises a rotating head which helps break up and remove larger blockages.

Hydro Jetting – This is the most powerful and it uses a combination of pressurised water and a rotating head to quickly and effectively remove blockages.

How beneficial is it to have High-Pressure Water Jetting done?
High-Pressure Water Jetting has many benefits over the standard traditional drain cleaning methods. This method of drain cleaning is a fast and effective way to be able to quickly and efficiently remove stubborn blockages in the pipes.

It is also able to effectively clean the inside of the pipes by removing built-up debris, which can help reduce future blockages.

Lastly, high-pressure water jetting is a non-invasive and cos-effective solution for cleaning drains and pipes, therefore, there will be little to no disruption to your business.

Why should I book this service for my business?
Not only is high-pressure water jetting effective, easy and doesn’t cost the earth, it is the perfect way to keep your drain clean and free of blockages. With United Drains, we can help with this and more! Just give us a call on 02036376688 or email us info@uniteddrains.co.uk and we will give you a free quote and talk to you about which service is for you.

Drains are an important aspect of any commercial property. If you notice that they aren’t functioning as they should or as efficiently as they could do, this can then become a problem for the business.
Knowing what is happening inside the drainpipes can be beneficial and helps you get a clear insight into what seems to be causing the issue. The best way to inspect inside your drainage system without intense work such as excavating, is to arrange a CCTV drain survey.

What is a CCTV drain survey
A CCTV drainage survey is a process for examining the condition of drainage systems remotely with a camera system that then records video footage of what is going on inside the drains. This is carried out by a certified surveyor and gives you real time images of its current condition.

This technology has now become an essential tool for inspecting and surveying underground drains, sewers, and culverts safely, quickly and cost-effectively. Using the images and footage captured from the survey, drainage experts are able to identify the issues that may be causing a blocked drain or even potential problems that may arise later on.

When do I require a CCTV drain survey?

• Purchasing/leasing a new commercial building
If you acquire a new premises, the property’s drainage system should be checked for any signs of blockages or potential problems. This allows you to get an idea of what the drainage infrastructure is like as well as make you aware of any issues or repairs that need to be carried out before opening business.

• Noticing water draining slowly/water pooling
Have you noticed the showers or sinks taking longer to drain? This is a clear sign that you have a blockage somewhere in your drainage pipework. It may be difficult to find the location and the scale of the blockage without the appropriate tools – which is why getting a CCTV drain survey would be the perfect choice in this scenario.

• Unpleasant smell
Have you noticed a strange smell coming from the drains? Often, this is due to Fat, Oil & Grease (FOG) which can block the sink in the kitchens. When this happens, waste materials aren’t disposed of efficiently and foul smells make their way back up through the drainage system and inside the building.
A CCTV drain survey can outline exactly what’s going on inside the pipework. This way, you can get it fixed quickly and not have to endure this through your business premises.

How do I get a CCTV drain survey done?
Get in touch with us at United Drains, where our drainage experts can talk you through the best approach and get our engineers on site as soon as possible.
If you would like to enquire or book with us, please call us on 02036376688 or alternatively, email us at info@uniteddrains.co.uk. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year!

Commercial properties require maintenance and a proactive service to help maintain its value and function. Drainage systems shouldn’t be overlooked. If they are left and not properly looked after, this is when water issues start to occur, damage begins, which is expensive and time-consuming to try to repair. Installing proper drainage is the first step to alleviate any issues, but then continuing the maintenance and upkeep is the next step.

Let’s take a look at how to control drainage in your building and why it’s important.

What is drainage?

Drainage is there to remove unwanted surface or subsurface water so the excess water doesn’t cause damage. Excess water is caused by rain, snow, ice and also bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and ponds.

Surface water is the water that is visible on the ground. Subsurface water is unseen because its underground but can eventually become surface water. Both of these types of water need proper drainage to remain under control.

Why is it necessary to have proper drainage?

In order for you to prevent damage to your commercial property, you need to have proper drainage installed. If it is left unchecked and not maintained, this means any area of your building, that is interior or exterior, is at risk.

We all know that water can actually destroy a building, or at least cause some issues. It can lead to damp and mold, cause a burst pipe or damage a ceiling when there’s a leak. This is why it is absolutely vital to have the right drainage system put in place to stop these issues from arising.

How to choose the right drainage system?

Choosing the right drainage system is imperative as a commercial property owner to help protect your building and the surrounding area. Seek advice from a professional drainage company to get the best option. But also, keep a few things in mind as you consider the right choice:

• What is the climate and environment like? Do you expect heavy rain or any adverse weather conditions?
• What is the slope like near the building?
• Is there already an old drainage system in place?
• Will repairs to the current system suffice?
• What will the company’s budget allow?

Conclusion

Proper drainage is part of the essential upkeep for a commercial building. The right drainage system is key to help control water drainage. United Drains offer high-quality drainage solutions and maintenance services for all your drainage systems so you can have complete peace of mind. Call us on tel:02036376688 or email us at info@uniteddrains.co.uk.