Drain Doctor helps householders avoid rip-off festive plumbers

“Here’s the problem” – a Drain Doctor technician shows a customer what needs fixing.

A burst pipe or blocked lavatory is a problem at any time of the year – at Christmas or New Year it can be an expensive nightmare. ‘Rip off’ plumbers can charge a small fortune just to take a look at the problem. Extra expense at this time of year is always unwelcome, particularly in these days of economic gloom.

That’s why Drain Doctor is reassuring its customers that it is maintaining its fixed prices, even if it is called out to an emergency over the festive season.

No overtime is charged for evening, weekend or bank holiday emergencies and there are no call-out charges – not even on Christmas Day. Every job is priced before work starts, working to a national pricing menu. We are truly on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Service requests are handled quickly and efficiently and prices are agreed before the job is done, so there are no surprises. Our constant aim is to give superb and specialised service.

Drain Doctor customers can rest assured that if they are unfortunate enough to suffer a plumbing emergency this Christmas or New Year, Drain Doctor will not charge any more than at any other time of year.

The central principle is to deliver dazzling levels of service in a market plagued by cowboy operators who are overcharging customers for shoddy workmanship.

Franchisees offer a full 24 hour per day seven-day per week service with no call out charges and they give fixed-price, no obligation quotes with a full guarantee on all their work.

Technicians are trained not just with technical skills – including the latest techniques such as closed circuit camera drain surveys and no-dig drain repairs – but in customer care that is reflected in such things as wearing overshoes while in customers’ homes and clearing up carefully after every job.

If you are unlucky enough to need a plumber over the festive period call us on 0845 357 999.

Living with a plumber is not always easy

It’s essential to have the right PPE when working alone

It is very easy to take the day-to-day work of a Drain Doctor plumbing and drainage technician for granted. Customers see a smartly turned out technician in a uniform wearing overshoes and a carrying a mat to avoid causing problems in their homes.

But what about the times when customers don’t see them, when they are at home? The life and work of a plumber have impacts on those they live with as well as those they work for.

This blogger – who lives with a plumber – has provided a few tips on how to live with a plumber and how to stay healthy once the working day is over.

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Toilet theme park opens in Korea.

White Toilet Bowl in Malaysia (Photo credit: epSos.de)

This story from the BBC is, perhaps, one of the strangest celebrations of the toilet you’re likely to see. This museum of the toilet in South Korea does have a serious side – despite the female curator interviewed being unable to stifle a giggle.

The Restroom Cultural Park in the Korean city of Suwon is claimed to be “the world’s first toilet theme park“. Its museum has exhibits including Roman loos, European-style bedpans, and ancient Korean flush toilets. Visitors can glean facts about human waste or stroll around a sculpture garden dedicated to squatting figures.

The theme park was set up to highlight the problem of providing adequate sanitation in developing countries throughout the world.

Wherever there is effective sanitation, however, we also need effective plumbers and drainage experts like Drain Doctor. If you experience blocked drains call us on 0800 3357 999.

October is ‘Toilet tank repair month’

There are more national and international awareness days than there are days in the year. They range from reminders of worthy causes to the downright bizarre.

The US leads the way. Administrative Professionals Day (21st April) probably has limited appeal but in our industry a mere 24 hours isn’t enough to get the message across. So how about Appreciate Your Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Professionals Week (20th-26th June). ‘We all know the discomfort we experience when our toilet breaks,’ says the promotional blurb. ‘Appreciate Your Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Professionals Week is a chance to acknowledge the great service these professionals provide.’

We also have World Water Day and World Plumbing Day in March.

This month. apparently, it’s toilet tank repair month in the US [http://www.huliq.com/8684/88051/october-national-toilet-tank-repair-month-and-more-october-trivia]. Perhaps we should take a leaf out their book?

In the US 70,000 gallons of water are lost each year through leaky toilet cisterns – one in four of all cisterns across the country. Here in the UK thousands of litres are lost. It is important to ensure that the cistern is maintained.

To repair leaks or replace leaky ball valves why not give your local Drain Doctor a call on 0800 3357 999 to receive dazzling levels of service that should lead to a national awareness day in the UK.

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Septic tank management: A fragrant problem

Inspect cess pools and septic tanks regularly to avoid problems.

Walking around a small village in Rutland recently I noticed the fragrance of septic tanks in the air. In rural areas it is common for properties not to be connected to the mains drainage system. These properties have to rely on a private drainage system such as a cesspool or septic tank. These types of drainage systems are very effective, provided they are managed correctly.

An average household will produce some 124,000 litres of waste each year. This is equivalent to emptying an 18,000 litre cesspool approximately seven times a year. If properly managed, most septic tanks or small sewage treatment plants do not cause problems – but if they are poorly designed, installed or managed, the discharge from them can damage the environment. Domestic wastewater can contain substances that are potentially harmful to human health and the environment.

A septic tank is a complete mini sewage system in which effluent is treated naturally. The primary purpose of the tank is to separate solids from liquids, as wastewater flows through it, and to help to break down contaminants.

A cesspool is a sealed underground tank with an inlet pipe but no outlet. It is connected to a property by a series of drainage pipes. The cesspool stores sewage and other wastewater until the time of disposal. Cesspools must be watertight to prevent the leakage of foul water or the ingress of groundwater.

Under the provisions of the Public Health Act 1936, it is an offence to allow a cesspool to overflow or leak. If this happens the owner is liable to prosecution by the local authority. In addition, if pollution of a watercourse takes place, the Environment Agency may take legal action under the Water Resources Act 1991. The penalty for allowing a polluting discharge is up to £20,000 and/or three months imprisonment.

A smell of sewage in the area, slowly draining sinks, toilets or baths, liquid overflowing from the inspection cover, surface flooding ‘downstream’ of the tank or nettles and vigorous plant growth ‘downstream’ can all be indicators of problems with your septic tank.

To avoid problems:

• Put all wastewaters from your home into the system – any of these can contain environmental pollutants. All roof and surface water should discharge directly into a ditch or watercourse.
• Use bleaches and disinfectants sparingly because these could kill the useful bacteria that help to digest the waste in your septic tank. Some brands of domestic cleaner are ‘septic tank friendly’ and are preferred.
• Try to avoid excessive discharges from washing machines by using the ‘halfload’ setting. If possible use showers instead of baths.
• Inspect the system at least once a month.
• De-sludge the tank at least once a year. Ensure that air vents are not blocked and that all covers are secured and easily accessible.
• Act immediately if you find a blockage or any sign of pollution.

Do not:

• Use your toilet or kitchen sink as a bin. Put disposable nappies, sanitary items, plastic or other large solids which may cause blockages into the bin.
• Empty chemical toilets into the drains of the septic tank.
• Pour paints, solvents, oils, fats or heavy greases into the drains of the septic tank. These should be kept in their original containers and disposed of properly.
• Allow roof or surface water into the septic tank. Excessive discharges into the tank will flush solids through before adequate digestion has taken place.

At Drain Doctor Plumbing and Drainage we understand septic tank systems and how they work.  We are experts in both the maintenance and installation of the systems.  We can upgrade existing systems to ensure they do not pollute ground water aquifers or water courses.

We can carry out ground forosity tests and lay down new soak-away or nitrification fields, with all work carried out in accordance with building regulations. We can also ‘audit’ existing septic tank systems and ensure the correct bacterial balance within the system.  This can be done by ensuring all materials used in the house are bio-degradable.  We also sell products to redress bacterial imbalance in septic tank systems.

Call us on 0800 3357 999 for a free septic tank consultation.

Heed flood warnings or face massive disruption says Drain Doctor

Heavy rain is increasing the risk of damaging flooding.

Communities in the South West of England and South Wales have been massively disrupted by flooding caused by recent bad weather. The Met Office has also issued further severe weather warnings for the South West, South East and East of England. Businesses across England could face serious disruption and may lose customers if they don’t take steps to prevent flooding this summer, warns the UK’s largest emergency plumbing and drainage company.

Drain Doctor Plumbing  is urging businesses to make sure their drains are free of any blockages from such things as fallen leaves to ensure the potential risk of flooding is minimised. A simple CCTV drain survey can help to identify any blockages or potential problems.

Many people think flooding is something that won’t happen to them, but the risk is there. Being unprepared simply means the chance of an incident increases.

Although insurance policies can cover damage to property, damage to businesses in terms of lost working hours and even lost clients is often not covered. This is why it is vitally important for businesses to take the time now to make sure their drains are clear of any blockages and are in good working order.

According to the Environment Agency over 5 million people in England and Wales live in properties that are risk of flooding from rivers or the sea. Add to this the risk of surface water, sewer and groundwater flooding and the potential for disruption becomes massive in periods of severe wet weather such as we are experiencing at the moment.

The Association of British Insurers predicts that coastal floods and storm damage will increase significantly over the next 50 years. Inland, more frequent heavy rainstorms and increased seasonal rainfall could result in more flooding from rivers.

This spells trouble for businesses across the country which aren’t adequately prepared for the damage flooding can do.

Let Drain Doctor help you to get your drains clear, and as fast running as they can be, before potential trouble arrives.

• Drain      Doctor Plumbing – 0800 3357 999.

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Posh VIP day out for new Oxford franchisees

Jon (centre with red jacket) and Lisa with other guests at London Road, home of Posh

Jon and Lisa Parker, the new owners of the Oxford and Banbury franchise business of Drain Doctor Plumbing had a Posh day out at the football recently.

Jon Parker said:  “Lisa and I were invited as VIP guests to Peterborough United Football Club – nicknamed Posh – as guests of official match day sponsors Ford and Slater. We met with all the first team players during our stadium tour and also got to meet Posh’s director of football Barry Fry.

“We also got asked to go out on to the centre circle just before kick-off, which was good as there were over 10,000 supporters there. We were wined and dined and had a great day. To top it off Peterborough won on the day …. they beat Leicester City 1-0.”

Jon Parker with Barry Fry

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Drain Doctor’s advice for DIY plumbers in tough times

Large image of household plungers: on the left, a toilet plunger, on the right, a sink plunger. Deutsch: Handbetriebene Saugglocken der Sanitärtechnik (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

During these tough economic times it is tempting to try to do basic DIY jobs ourselves. This includes simple plumbing and drain clearance jobs. But beware, there are pitfalls to catch out the unwary DIY plumber.

Most minor blockages can be diagnosed and dealt with easily, as long as the person doing the unblocking pays close attention to a few basics.

Don’t take the plunge

When faced with a blocked sink or toilet the first thing that most of us reach for is the plunger. This simple device removes blockages by producing an airtight seal and creating suction to remove debris.

Interestingly enough, however, many plumbers don’t count plungers as part of their tool kits, and for good reason. Not only do they create a dangerous mess by splashing toilet water around, they can also push the obstruction farther into the pipe. Augers work much better.

Take care with chemicals

Commercially available chemicals are easy to use and very effective at removing blockages but they can be extremely dangerous to health and to the environment. They should be handled with care while wearing gloves and protective eyewear in case of splashing.

Keep an eye on slow drains

There are other Eco-friendly liquids marketed for unblocking drains, including Drain Doctor’s own micro biological MS enzyme cleaner. They contain natural enzymes or microorganisms that can deal with organic obstructions in the pipe. They are intended for use on drains that begin to develop issues and are more of a preventative measure. Boiled water with sea salt can also be an effective pipe flush if done periodically, helping to avoid future messy cleanups caused by full-blown blockages.

If you are in any doubt about how to tackle a particular job then call the professionals. Drain Doctor is available around the clock 365 days of the year on 0800 3357 999.

Drain Doctor welcomes new Oxfordshire franchisees

Jon and Lisa Parker have taken on Drain Doctor franchise areas to provide emergency plumbing and drainage services to businesses and homes in Oxfordshire, including Oxford, Banbury, Bicester, Abingdon, Witney, Buckingham and Chipping Norton.

When an unexpected life event forced ex-pat Jon Parker and his wife Lisa to return to the UK they were looking for a franchise business with potential. They found it in the Oxford and Banbury franchise of Drain Doctor Plumbing and Drainage Ltd.

Jon has been in and out of the drainage industry for 15 years, starting as a plumber’s mate and more recently working as a night supervisor for a rail company.

Working on the London Underground has given Jon the opportunity to acquire training in a variety of aspects of drainage including London Transport’s site person in charge (SPIC) level certification and training on working in confined spaces in London’s sewer system. In three and a half years working on the underground Jon has had to deal with everything from blockages caused by discarded bicycles to a rat as ‘big as a fox!’

Jon and Lisa have experience in business administration and management. Jon explained: “In 2003 we had the opportunity to emigrate to Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca in Spain. Initially I didn’t have a job to go to but found work with Iberian International in its call centre. Within three years I became manager while Lisa worked in its banking and mortgage department.

“We had been in Spain for six years when I had another opportunity to go to New Zealand with my brother. Unfortunately, it was at this point that Lisa was diagnosed with a serious illness and we had to return to the UK.”

Keeping a positive life attitude has been important to Jon and Lisa. While Lisa was undergoing treatment Jon looked for new business opportunities close to the family home in Northampton. Jon said: “I was looking for franchise businesses in particular and after some research I found Drain Doctor – a business which is a perfect fit with my skills and experience.

“It has a proven system that offers a largely recession-proof opportunity where I can still be an independent operator running my own business but with all the back-up that comes with being part of a large national organisation.

“I looked at other business ideas but you don’t get the same support that you do with a Drain Doctor franchise. With some other franchises you are left on your own. Drain Doctor offers great contacts with insurance companies and has a national account network that will help me to develop and grow the business.”

Lisa has now made a full recovery and will be assisting Jon with the admin side of the business as well as helping to look after their two daughters, Charley (12) and Millie (9).

The couple will start with one employee and two vans and hope to start expanding the business within a year.

Jon added: “We aim to give businesses and householders across our franchise areas the same ‘dazzling’ level of service which Drain Doctor provides across the rest of the country.

“Our customers get fixed-price, no obligation quotes, a complete guarantee on all our work, and a full 24 hour per day seven day per week service with no call out charges – so people pay the same price for work at any time of day or night. What’s more, we turn up at the agreed time”, said Jon.

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Drain Doctor prevention is better than cure for national pub chain

Around 65 per cent of blockages in a year are caused by the build-up of fat solids and grease in the drainage system. Fitting and maintaining a good quality grease management system will help to prevent them.

At Drain Doctor Plumbing we are advising our commercial customers that ‘prevention is better than cure’ when it comes to grease management and planned maintenance.

The message has been well-received and Drain Doctor has signed service level agreements with blue chip national pub group JD Wetherspoon and Wagamama, a chain of Japanese noodle bars.

Drain Doctor business development manager Catriona Berry said: “We work with our customers to raise awareness of the importance of grease management in the hospitality industry.

“Around 65 per cent of blockages in a year are caused by the build-up of fat solids and grease in the drainage system. Dealing with these blockages can be costly and lead to higher water bills, as well as lost business.

“At Drain Doctor we advise our customers to be proactive in the management of their grease systems in order to avoid blockages and reduce the amount of water they waste and therefore reduce their water bills.”

In addition to supplying and maintaining grease traps Drain Doctor offers a variety of preventative maintenance plans for commercial customers covering all emergency plumbing and drainage, allowing managers to run their businesses without worrying about blocked toilets and drains.

Catriona added: “We also offer a centralised invoicing system, with all vans despatched by our national call centre, which is staffed by friendly and knowledgeable emergency call takers.

“With over 200 vans on the road run from 68 locations nationwide, national customers such as JD Wetherspoon can be confident that we will be there when we are needed.”

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