PARENTS could end up with a £185 plumbing bill if they made an easy mistake in the hot weather this summer.
Now that temperatures are finally warming up, a trip to the beach or a game in the backyard sandbox could be on the cards for families across the country.
Getting sand stuck between your toes or on your clothes is almost inevitable, but experts warn to think twice before flushing it down the drain.
David Rees, a plumbing expert at HomeSupply, said: “As sand can be heavy, it will build up in the U-bend of the pipes.
“Over time, enough sand can build up in the drain trap and prevent it from draining properly.”
This could happen by rinsing very sandy feet in the shower, putting beach clothes directly in the washing machine, or washing buckets and shovels in the sink.
He added that if a plumber is called to fix blockages in the drains, homeowners can face costs of between £80 and £185, depending on the services required.
But there are ways to get rid of sand without running up a big bill.
David said: “Always hose off sandy items before bringing them into the house and keep sandy shoes in the hallway.
“Filters can also be installed over drains to collect waste before it builds up.”
These can cost as little as £5 for two on Amazon or £1 at Dunlem and could save you having to spend a small fortune on repairs.
If you think your drain may already be blocked with sand, it may not be too late to fix the problem yourself.
David said: “You could try using a plunger to try and relieve the build-up.
“A drain snake or wire hanger might also be helpful.”
Start with a household plunger, fill the sink with water and place the plunger over the drain.
Soak it several times and then rinse it with warm water.
Five ways to keep your kids cool in hot weather
It can be really difficult (and expensive) to keep kids cool when it’s hot outside. But Sarah Bull, senior reporter at Fabulous Digital and mother of two, shares five ways you can help — and they won’t go over budget, either.
remove them
It may seem simple, but undressing kids at home can really help them regulate their temperature when it’s hot outside. Just remember to apply sunscreen regularly, as more of your skin will be exposed to the sun.
Refresh rooms before night falls
When it’s hot outside, it can be hard for kids to fall asleep, especially if their bedroom feels like an oven. If you have a room that doesn’t receive direct sunlight, keep the windows open to let in the breeze. It’s also a good idea to keep the curtains closed to prevent the room from getting hot.
wear a hat
Another simple technique, but it really works. Make sure that if your children play outside, they have a hat on. It keeps their face and head protected from the sun and also helps if you have a little one who struggles with bright sunlight. If your baby has trouble keeping a hat on, try one with a strap that goes under the chin to help.
avoid the car
The car can be one of the hottest places during a heat wave and often takes a long time to cool down. If you have the option, it’s better to stay home than take the kids anywhere in a hot car.
Keep hydrated
This is always important, but more so in a heat wave. Be sure to periodically remind your children to have a drink and fill them up with cold liquids whenever you can. Also use ice to ensure it is as cold as possible.
But be sure to wear gloves, clear the room, and take care of the chrome accessories.
If that hasn’t worked, it may be time to use a wire perch or drain snake, which is flattened and inserted into the hole to move the clog.
You can take out a little bit of the cable.
A drain snake can cost around £20 at Screwfix and online at Amazon.
If it’s still blocked, you’ll need to access the U-bend under the sink. With a hub underneath, unscrew the fastening.
But do this only if you can put it back together and if not, it is best to contact a plumber.
Costliest mistakes in hot climates
From driving practices to where you light up the barbecue or dump your trash, there are a number of little-known rules that could get you in trouble this summer.
While it is not strictly illegal to drive in flip flops, flimsy footwear could lead to a fine of up to £5,000 if you are caught in an accident.
Sunlight can be blinding and it is important to make sure you can see clearly while driving, otherwise you could be charged with careless driving, which has a maximum fine of £5,000.
When the mercury rises, car interiors can quickly become stuffy and most of us immediately try to turn on the air conditioning.
But doing so is not just a point of comfort. Part of Rule 237 of the Highway Code states that drivers must keep their cars “well ventilated” to avoid drowsiness.
Failure to comply could result in a fine of £5,000 in the most serious cases.
Public parks and beaches have very specific rules about lighting barbecues, so make sure you know them to avoid a hefty fine.
According to some municipalities, lighting fires, including barbecues, is prohibited in all parks and public spaces.
However, in many places you can enjoy a barbecue in designated areas as long as you are careful.
It’s worth checking the rules in your local area before you head out to make sure you don’t start cooking against the rules.
All the information you need should be on your council website.
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