Slow drains, foul smells and weird gurgling noises are all issues that property owners face from time to time. But how do you know which professional to call when problems arise, a local drainage company like Mega-Rod or a plumber?
As local drainage experts in Bath, Bristol and the surrounding areas for over 40 years, we’ve seen it all here at Mega-Rod. And we’ve put together this straightforward guide to help you decide when you need to call a local drainage expert for your water-related emergency.
Here are some key indicators that you might have a problem.
Slow-draining water
When water in your kitchen sink, basin, bath, shower or appliances starts draining away more slowly than usual, it’s a sure sign that trouble is brewing in your drainage system. Especially if more than one drain or household fixture is affected. This could indicate that fat, limescale, soap scum, food debris, wet wipes or even tree roots have started to narrow the pipework and restrict the flow of wastewater.
Foul smells
Nasty odours offer another clear warning sign. Foul smells that have you reaching for the air freshener or opening windows could indicate that waste is getting trapped in the system or stagnant water is sitting in a section of pipe. They could also point to cracks or damage in the pipework where sewer gases are escaping.
Gurgling noises
Gurgling noises from sinks, toilets or outside drains are a cry for help from your drainage system. They indicate that trapped air is being forced through the water because of a partial blockage or poor venting, and are often the forerunners to a full blockage occurring.
Plumbing and drainage both deal with the flow of water in and out of your property. But their roles aren’t interchangeable. Here’s how the responsibilities of plumbers and drainage specialists differ:
Plumbers
Plumbers deal mainly with clean water coming into your property and the internal fixtures that use it. So if you have a dripping tap, faulty toilet flush, leaking radiator or no hot water, a plumber would be your first port of call.
Drainage specialists
Drainage specialists, on the other hand, deal with all aspects of wastewater and sewage leaving the property. So if you’re facing blocked or slow-moving drains, nasty smells, sewage backing up or repeated issues with your toilet or sink, it’s time to call in the drainage experts like Mega-Rod.
When you book a drainage specialist, you can expect a highly trained and knowledgeable engineer whose aim isn’t just to fix your problem, but to diagnose any underlying issues and prevent them from recurring.
Our engineers arrive prepared with the latest tools and technology. High-pressure jetting machines and drain rods allow us to clear even the most stubborn blockages quickly and safely. If we suspect underground problems, we’ll use CCTV drain surveys to inspect your pipework, rooting out damage, cracks or hidden obstructions with minimal disruption to your property.
You can also expect a prompt response, especially for emergencies. Drainage issues can be a real nuisance, so we offer a 24/7 emergency callout service that’ll get things flowing again quickly and reduce the risk of future drainage issues.
Blocked drains bring all sorts of problems, from foul smells and gurgling noises to stubborn water that just won’t clear. If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s important to take prompt action to resolve the problem before it escalates.
This is where our rapid-response drain unblocking and drain cleaning services come in. Serving Bath, Bristol and the surrounding areas, our specialist team is equipped to investigate and locate stubborn blockages. Using advanced drain cameras where necessary, we’ll get your wastewater pipes flowing smoothly again in no time.
Mega-Rod is proud to be a Which? Trusted Trader, giving you complete confidence in the quality, reliability and safety of our service.
Contact Mega-Rod on 01225 422980 for a fast, effective solution to your drainage problems.









