Latest news with #ADILeakDetection
The Sun
5 days ago
- General
- The Sun
Simple 35p hack instantly banishes smelly drains – and you already have it in your kitchen cupboard
THERE'S nothing more off-putting in the summer than the smell of drains in your bathroom or kitchen. Not only is it hard to ignore, but the smell can linger for days, especially in the sunshine and warm weather. 3 That is because the summer heat creates the perfect storm for drain problems, which can turn the cleanest room into a source of bad smells. Luckily, experts have shared their fool-proof top tips to stop your drains from smelling this summer. And one handy trick only costs 35p - and you might even already have it in your kitchen cupboard. Peter Jones, Director of specialist plumbing firm ADI Leak Detection, revealed that all you need is some white vinegar. Explaining why the issue is worse in summer, he said: 'Most people don't realise that hot weather is like rocket fuel for the bacteria living in their drains. 'What starts as a minor issue in spring can become a real problem by July if you don't know what to do about it. Peter JonesDirector of ADI Leak Detection 'When it's hot outside, the temperature in your pipes goes up too. 'Bacteria love warm, moist environments, so they multiply much faster in summer. Summer weather also causes water in your drain traps - those U-shaped bends under sinks and in floor drains - to evaporate more quickly. He added: 'Those water traps are there for a reason. They create a barrier that stops sewer gases from coming up through your drains. The cable-tie-scissor trick plumbers swear by to get hair clogs out of your drain & it's WAY better than pricey liquids "When that water evaporates faster in hot weather, you lose that protection and start smelling what's lurking down below.' Peter said that white vinegar is the one product that beats expensive drain cleaners every time. He revealed: 'White vinegar is brilliant for this job. "It's antibacterial, it neutralises odours instantly, and it's completely safe for your pipes. "Best of all, it costs pennies compared to shop-bought drain cleaners.' The trick is simple but effective, and Peter recommends mixing one cup of white vinegar with warm water. 'The vinegar kills bacteria on contact and breaks down any gunk that's built up in your pipes. "Plus, it's eco-friendly and won't damage your plumbing like some harsh chemicals can.' Peter breaks down exactly how to do this properly for maximum effect. Mix Your Solution - Combine one cup of white vinegar with an equal amount of warm water. He says: 'The warm water helps the vinegar work more effectively." Pour Slowly Down Each Drain - Start with your sink drain, then move to floor drains if you have them. Pour the mixture slowly to ensure it coats the sides of the pipes. Let It Sit - 'Give it at least 15 minutes to work its magic,' advises Peter. 'The vinegar needs time to kill the bacteria and break down any buildup." Flush With Hot Water Finish by running hot water down the drain for about 30 seconds to wash everything away. Other ways to keep your drains fresh PETER says that prevention is key for problems like this, as it's easier to nip it in the bid than it is to get rid of it once it starts. So he has shared additional tips to prevent problems before they take hold. He suggests: "Keep your water traps topped up, especially if you have drains you don't use often. 'Run water down them at least once a week to make sure that protective barrier stays in place.' Peter also recommends cleaning drain covers regularly. He adds: 'Hair, soap scum, and other debris collect around the edges. "A quick wipe with antibacterial cleaner once a week makes a huge difference.' Most importantly, Peter warns against letting grease and food waste go down bathroom sinks. He said: 'I know it's tempting to rinse greasy face creams or makeup down the sink, but that stuff builds up and creates the ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive.' The expert added: "What's great about this vinegar method is its simplicity. "You don't need special equipment or expensive products, just something most people already have at home. "I've been in the plumbing business for over a decade, and I've seen homeowners spend hundreds on professional drain cleaning when a weekly cup of vinegar would have solved the problem. 'During peak summer months, I recommend doing this every week, without fail. "If you're dealing with particularly stubborn smells, you can safely do it twice a week until the problem clears up. "The key is consistency, as it's much easier to prevent bacteria buildup than it is to get rid of it once it's established. "A few minutes of prevention each week could save you hundreds in repair bills down the line.'
Daily Mirror
19-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Mould will stop growing in bathrooms for good with 3 houseplants that 'absorb moisture'
Three houseplants can absorb excess moisture from the air, helping to banish mould from your bathroom once and for all Mould is a prevalent problem in bathrooms, causing damage to surfaces and posing health risks. The typically high humidity and poor ventilation in bathrooms create an ideal breeding ground for mould. Fortunately, an expert has disclosed that certain houseplants can naturally absorb excess moisture from the air, effectively combating mould in bathrooms. Peter Jones, Director of ADI Leak Detection, has shared his insights: "After more than a decade of helping homeowners tackle moisture problems, I've learned that prevention is always better than a cure. "These bathroom plants are a brilliant example of working with nature rather than against it." He elaborates on the benefits of these plants: "They're not just absorbing moisture - they're creating a healthier environment that makes it harder for mould to take hold." He highlights three houseplants that are particularly adept at soaking up dampness in the air. 1. The Boston fern Firstly, the Boston fern, a plant that loves moisture and flourishes in humid conditions where other houseplants may falter. Peter notes, "Peace lilies are brilliant because they actually tell you when they need water." He describes their behaviour: "The leaves droop dramatically when they're thirsty, then perk right back up after a drink." These plants are well-suited to indirect light, which is perfect for bathrooms that often have frosted windows. For optimal care, the Boston fern should be positioned on a shelf or hung in a basket away from direct sunlight. Homeowners are advised to water the soil once it starts to feel dry and to mist the leaves now and then to maintain a healthy and thriving fern. 2. Peace Lily "Don't let the elegant white flowers fool you - peace lilies are tough cookies when it comes to bathroom duty. They're excellent at filtering air pollutants while soaking up excess humidity," said the expert. "Peace lilies are brilliant because they actually tell you when they need water. The leaves droop dramatically when they're thirsty, then perk right back up after a drink." Peace lilies can flourish in dim conditions and will bloom more abundantly with slightly brighter light, though direct sunlight should be avoided. As a wonderfully low-maintenance option, peace lilies require minimal trimming and perform best with limited fertiliser. 3. English ivy "English ivy is particularly good for bathrooms because it actively fights the mould that's already trying to establish itself," observed Peter. Studies demonstrate that English ivy can reduce airborne mould particles by up to 78% within just 12 hours. This trailing plant thrives in dimly lit spaces and prefers allowing its soil to dry completely between watering sessions. You can guide it up a compact trellis or allow it to cascade elegantly from an elevated shelf. Peter concluded: "Group your plants together to create a humidity-absorbing powerhouse. Three or four plants working together can make a noticeable difference in a standard-sized bathroom."
