Blocked drains can happen for so many reasons and they can certainly cause inconvenience usually along with an unpleasant smell. They can also cause health issues and property damage, so it’s important to find the source and unblock the drain fast!
It will be either your sewer or stormwater pipes that are blocked. Sewer pipes are often blocked by hair, soap, food waste or foreign objects. Stormwater pipes connect to gutters and downpipes on your home so leaves, sticks and dirt can be washed down into the pipes. Sand, pebbles and mulch can be carried into grates and drains, building up to create a blockage over time. Tree roots can also make their way into your underground pipes and wreak havoc.
If your drain is smelly, overflowing, or gurgling and your sinks and basins are not draining it is more than likely you have a blockage. The solution for unblocking drains depends on the location and severity of the blockage.
Blocked Drains Solutions You Can Try Yourself
Elbow Grease
If the blockage is visible and easily accessible, you may be able to remove the debris yourself. For example, hair caught in the plughole of the shower can often be removed by unscrewing the cover. Sinks and basins are easy to clean yourself by pulling apart the pipes underneath and giving them a clean out with a small brush.
Use some wire or a coat hanger if you need to get down deeper into the pipe. Similarly, outdoors, if you can easily access a grate or pipe, you may be able to clear it out yourself.
Flushing With Water
If you can’t see what is causing the blockage, an option is to try and flush the pipe. Pouring boiling water down sinks and toilet bowls may help. Avoid the rubber seal when doing this and if you have PVC pipes, use hot water rather than boiling.
Natural Cleaners
The next step is to try natural cleaners that you probably already have at home. Tipping some bicarb soda down the sink and then pouring in white vinegar causes a reaction to break down grease and solids. Rinse thoroughly with hot water afterwards.
Earth-friendly cleaners that contain enzymes can also be effective.
Caustic Cleaners
If that isn’t enough, there are many commercial products available and while they tend to be rather toxic, they are tougher at dissolving things like hair and grease. Always wear gloves and a mask and follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully. Make sure the product is suitable for PVC pipes if necessary.
Plunger
Using a plunger can help release an obstruction. Cover the overflow drain with tape or use a damp cloth to seal it. Do this in a second sink if you have one. Pressing a plunger over the plughole will create an air-based force and can loosen items.
Professional Blocked Drain Services
If none of these options work, it is likely that the problem is larger and/or deeper than you can access yourself so it is time to call in the experts. The Drain Man has decades of experience and we have all the necessary equipment to unblock drains quickly and effectively.
Firstly, one of our skilled plumbers will determine as much information about the problem and then attend the site to fully assess the situation and provide options.
CCTV Drain Inspections
Using a camera, vision can be taken of pipes and drains to give a clear picture of what and where the blockage is. CCTV drain camera inspections can be used in both domestic and commercial settings for a very detailed assessment of any blockages as well as any damage to the pipes.
High Pressure Drain Cleaning
Using a high pressure water jet to remove obstructions from sewers and other pipes is an effective and environmentally-friendly option. Regular drain jetting and maintenance will help prevent the build-up of debris and minimise the chance of further drain blockages.
Once you have clear pipes advice will be given about any necessary repairs and ongoing maintenance.
Drain Relining
If your pipes have seen better days and are broken or infested with tree roots, speak to our drain team about pipe reline solutions. Restoration of your pipes using advanced technology will keep your pipes resistant to invasion from roots, leaks and cracks. Our drain relining comes with a lifetime warranty.
Don’t wait any longer - call our team now to discuss your blocked drain. We have a ZERO failure rate, with excellent customer service and a skilled, qualified team available. It is no wonder we are highly recommended as the team to call for unblocking drains and relining services.
If you have any questions about pipeline inspections, drain clearing or pipe relining at your premises, contact our friendly team. We’ll be happy to help in any way we can.
Drains relined by TDM carry a Lifetime Warranty.
