Blocked drains can be a nightmare! They can cause water to back up, create unpleasant odours, cost money to clean and disrupt your day to day activities. But there is good news: with the right know how, you can tackle (or at-least attempt) most drain blockages on your own. According to industry data, over 75% of household drain blockages are preventable with proper maintenance and cleaning techniques.
So, let’s break down everything you need to know about how to clean blocked drains, clear outdoor blockages, prevent future clogs, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
How to Clean Blocked Drains
Cleaning a blocked drain doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these simple steps to get your drains back in working order:
- Start with Boiling Water
This is the simplest and probably the quickest solution for minor blockages, especially if they’re caused by soap scum or grease buildup. Boil a kettle and pour it slowly down the drain in stages. This can help dissolve stubborn deposits lining the walls of the pipes and breakup any blockages. Wait a few minutes between pours to allow the hot water to do its job. Once you have completed this, try running water or flushing a toilet to see if the drain runs freely again.
- Use a Plunger
When working with a blocked sink, bath, shower or toilet, a plunger is one of the most effective tools for dislodging a blockage. Make sure there’s enough water in the sink or basin to cover the bottom of the plunger. Place it over the drain, creating a tight seal, and pump up and down with force. This should create enough pressure to push or pull the blockage out of the way. For toilets, ensure you’re using a toilet-specific plunger to get the best results. You might notice a large suction action with water flowing away once the blockage has been removed or dislodged.
- Try a Natural Drain Cleaner
If you prefer an eco-friendly approach, create your own drain cleaner with baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. You’ll see it start to fizz—this reaction helps break down blockages. After 15 minutes, flush with hot water. It’s a great solution for tackling minor clogs without resorting to harsh chemicals.
- Unclog with a Drain Snake
When plunging and boiling water don’t do the trick, try using a drain snake. This tool can reach deep into the pipes to physically dislodge hair, food, or other debris. Slowly insert the snake into the drain, twist it to latch onto the clog, and pull it back out. If you feel resistance, gently work through it until the blockage is broken up.
- Use Chemical Cleaners Sparingly
Chemical drain cleaners can be effective but should be used with caution. They’re often very harsh and can damage older pipes or septic systems. If you do choose this method, always follow the instructions and never mix different chemicals, as this can produce dangerous fumes. Be sure to pick the correct chemicals for your pipework as damage can cause further problems to resolve.
- Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all these methods and your drain is still blocked, it’s time to bring in the experts. Professional drainage companies like Blocked Drains Dorchester have specialist equipment and techniques, such as high-pressure water jetting or CCTV inspections, to identify and resolve deeper, more serious blockages. The issue could be anything from a blocked drain from tree roots, cracked pipework, displaced joints or totally collapsed pipework.
How to Clear Blocked Drains Outside
Outside drains are often more susceptible to blockages due to leaves, dirt, and other outdoor debris. Here’s how to get those external drains cleared:
- Remove the Drain Cover and Clear Visible Debris
Begin by removing the drain cover. This might require manhole keys or you might be able to simply lift it. We recommend 2 people for safety. Once lifted, use gloves to clear away any visible debris like leaves, twigs, and mud. This might be all that’s needed to restore proper drainage flow.
- Use Drain Rods
For more stubborn blockages, drain rods can be a lifesaver. Insert the rods into the drain and rotate them clockwise as you push. This motion can break up and dislodge blockages. Be careful not to force the rods, as this could damage the pipe. It’s also important to make sure you have a proper grip on the rods as getting rods stuck down a pipe can be difficult to retrieve.
- Flush with a Hose
Once the blockage is cleared, flush the drain with a garden hose to wash away any remaining residue. This helps prevent small bits of debris from building up and causing another blockage down the line.
- Call in the Professionals for Tree Roots or Collapsed Pipes
If you suspect that tree roots or a collapsed pipe are causing the issue, it’s best to call a drainage professional. High-pressure water jetting or root cutting equipment is required for these types of blockages, and trying to tackle them on your own can make the problem worse.
How to Prevent Blocked Drains
Preventing blockages is much easier (and cheaper) than dealing with them after they’ve occurred. Follow these tips to keep your drains clear:
- Dispose of Grease Properly
Never pour grease, fat, or oil down the drain. Instead, let it cool and solidify, then scrape it into the bin. Using a grease trap in the kitchen can also help catch any small amounts of grease that might make their way down the sink. Grease build up is one of the largest causes of blocked drains.
- Use Sink and Shower Strainers
Sink strainers and shower drain covers can catch food particles, hair, and other debris that would otherwise end up in your pipes. Clean these strainers regularly to maintain good drainage. We recommend removing strainers and wet vacuuming if smells or odours start to occur.
- Flush Drains Regularly with Hot Water
Once a week, pour hot water down your sinks and shower drains. This practice can help dissolve any fat or soap that’s begun to build up, keeping your pipes clear. Make sure the water is not boiling when pouring onto porcelain as this can cause cracking or shattering.
- Mind What You Flush
Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, sanitary products, and cotton wool don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause significant blockages. Instead, dispose of these items in a bin.
- Clean Gutters and Outside Drains
Regularly remove leaves and debris from gutters and outside drains. This helps prevent rainwater from carrying additional debris into your drainage system, which could lead to blockages.
How to Report Blocked Drains
If you come across a blocked drain that’s not on your property, it’s essential to report it to the relevant authorities. Here’s how:
- Identify the Problem
If the blockage is on public land, like a street drain or a shared system, it’s likely the responsibility of the local council or water company. If it’s affecting multiple properties or a shared building, check if others are experiencing the same issue.
- Contact Your Local Water Company
For blockages in public sewers or drains, get in touch with your local water company. They usually have a dedicated helpline or online reporting form. In Dorchester, the water company is Wessex Water, they’ll handle blockages affecting public systems.
- Notify the Local Council
For drains on roadsides or in public areas, contact your local council. They’ll send a team to inspect and resolve the issue.
- Property Management
If you live in a flat or shared property, report the issue to your property management company or Landlord. They’re responsible for arranging professional help and coordinating with other tenants to resolve the problem. However, if the issue is within your property bounds, you might be liable to foot the bill. Have a read of our article “Who is responsible for blocked drains” to find out more.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean blocked drains, clear outdoor blockages, and prevent future clogs will save you time and frustration. Most importantly, it’ll help you avoid costly repairs and damage to your property. If you’re struggling with persistent blockages or suspect a more serious issue, don’t hesitate to call in the experts at Blocked Drains Dorchester.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining a clog-free, smoothly running drainage system!