How Does Gully Cleaning Differ From Regular Drain Cleaning?

It is no secret that you need to keep on top of and look after your drains. However, many people only think about cleaning them when there is a problem or an emergency! By then, it is too late. Maintaining a clean and functional drainage system prevents water damage, reduces unpleasant odours, and avoids health hazards. While many people are familiar with drain cleaning, gully cleaning is often overlooked or misunderstood. In this blog, we will explore the differences between gully cleaning vs drain cleaning and explain why calling professionals to help with these tasks is essential.

Understanding Gullies And Drains

Before taking a look at the specifics of cleaning your drainage system, it’s important to understand what gullies and drains are and how they function within a drainage system.

What is a Gully?

A gully, often found outside buildings, serves as an intermediary between surface water and the drainage system. It collects rainwater and wastewater from sinks, baths, and appliances and channels it into the main sewer. Gullies are equipped with traps to prevent odours and gases from escaping, making them an essential component of any property’s drainage infrastructure.

What is a Drain?

On the other hand, drains are made up of a network of pipes that transport wastewater and sewage from inside a building to the sewer or septic tank. They are integral to the plumbing system and are responsible for ensuring that waste is efficiently removed from the property. Drains can be found both inside and outside of buildings, and they connect various fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, and showers, to the main sewer line.

Gully Cleaning Vs Drain Cleaning

Although both gullies and drains are crucial for a property’s drainage system, the cleaning processes for each differ significantly due to their distinct functions and locations. It is important to know the difference between cleaning each one so that you can keep on top of their maintenance correctly, and help to avoid a plumbing emergency!

Gully Cleaning Services

Gully cleaning involves the removal of debris, silt, leaves, and other blockages that accumulate in the gully. This process is particularly important in outdoor settings where gullies are exposed to natural elements. The key steps in gully cleaning include:

1. Inspection: The gully is inspected to identify the extent of the blockage and the type of debris causing the obstruction.
2. Removal of Debris: Using specialised tools, debris is manually removed from the gully. This might involve lifting the gully grate and using rods or suction equipment to clear out the accumulated waste.
3. Flushing: The gully is flushed with water to ensure that all remnants of the blockage are removed and to check that the water flows freely into the drain.
4. Maintenance: Regular maintenance checks are scheduled to prevent future blockages and ensure the gully remains functional.

Drain Cleaning

Drain cleaning, in contrast, often involves dealing with internal blockages within pipes. These blockages can be caused by a build-up of grease, hair, soap scum, and other materials that can accumulate over time. The process of drain cleaning typically includes:

1. Diagnosis: Identifying the location and nature of the blockage using CCTV cameras or other diagnostic tools.
2. Mechanical Cleaning: Using augers, drain snakes, or hydro-jetting equipment to break up and remove the blockage.
3. Chemical Cleaning: In some cases, chemical solutions are used to dissolve blockages, especially those caused by grease or soap.
4. Preventative Measures: Recommending products or practices to prevent future blockages, such as enzyme-based cleaners or regular maintenance schedules.

Why Hiring a Professional is Essential

We’ve shown you the difference between gully cleaning vs drain cleaning, and while it might be tempting to tackle gully and drain cleaning as a DIY project, there are several reasons why calling in the professionals is the better option!

Expertise and Experience

Professional drain cleaners possess the knowledge and experience to accurately diagnose and address any drainage issues. They can quickly identify the cause of a blockage and determine the most effective method for clearing it. Without this expertise, DIY attempts can often lead to incomplete cleaning or even make the problem worse.

Specialised Equipment

Professional drain and gully cleaners use specialised tools and equipment that are not typically available to homeowners. For example, hydro-jetting machines can effectively clear stubborn blockages with high-pressure water, and CCTV cameras can provide a clear view of the inside of pipes to ensure thorough cleaning. These tools are essential for making sure that the job is done correctly and efficiently.

Safety 

Dealing with drainage systems can pose several safety risks, including exposure to harmful bacteria and chemicals, the potential for injury from sharp objects, and the danger of accidental damage to the drainage system. Professionals are trained to handle these risks safely and are equipped with the necessary protective gear.

Preventative Maintenance 

Professional cleaners do more than just address the immediate blockage. They provide valuable advice on preventative maintenance to avoid future issues. This can include tips on what not to flush down the drain, recommendations for regular cleaning schedules, and information on products that can help maintain clean and functional drainage systems.

Cost-Effectiveness

While hiring a professional might seem like an added expense, it can actually save money in the long run. DIY attempts that go wrong can lead to costly repairs, and regular professional maintenance can prevent serious issues that require extensive and expensive fixes.

Understanding the difference between gully cleaning and regular drain cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy and functional drainage system. Both processes require specific skills, tools, and expertise that only professionals can provide. Attempting to tackle these tasks without the proper knowledge and equipment can lead to incomplete cleaning, recurring blockages, and potential safety hazards.

If you enlist the help of a professional, it not only ensures that the job is done correctly and efficiently but also provides peace of mind. Here at Mersey Rod, our team will bring a wealth of experience and top-of-the-range specialised equipment and offer preventative maintenance advice, all of which contribute to the longevity and reliability of your drainage system. Not only can we offer reliable cleaning services, but we also provide a full range of plumbing problems to make sure that you are never caught out! No matter how big or small your plumbing problem is, our experts here at Mersey Rod are dedicated to getting your drains running smoothly again. We aim to offer you the quickest solution at the most cost-effective price so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank. Our trained professionals have years of experience and knowledge to give you the best service possible.

While it might be tempting to try and save money by handling gully and drain cleaning yourself, the benefits of hiring a professional far outweigh the costs. By investing in professional cleaning services, you can protect your property, prevent future issues, and ensure that your drainage system functions smoothly and effectively. If you have any questions or queries, please call us today for more information. If you would like more information about our gully and drain cleaning, or you would like our help with other drainage issues, then contact our friendly team today!