Mr Skill

It really is quite astonishing to discover what can enter our drains, and cause a blockage. Often, the problem is not visible as with tree and shrub roots finding ways into drain pipes, and creating havoc. Sometimes, we only become aware of a problem when we see an accumulation of water and other debris near drain covers. Some jobs are going to require you to find a plumber, because of the specialist nature of the work. Here are some preventative measures you can take to avoid unnecessary callouts.

What You’ll Need

• A tool to remove the drain cover, such as a crowbar
• A hose connected to the hot water supply
• A plunger that covers the drain diameter
• A drain rod, if you have one
• Gloves to protect your hands

Before you start, why not get a plumber quote to solve the problem? Remember that Mr-Skill’s plumbers are required to guarantee their work, so you can use them in confidence.

Steps

• Remove the cover of the obstructed drain. Drain covers can prove difficult to budge if they have not been lifted for a while so you may need a crowbar
• Turn the hot tap on fully and push the hose as far down the drain as you can. The higher the pressure and the hotter the water, the more effective the solution
• If the water in the drain starts welling back up, place the plunger over the drain and plunge it back and forth. This creates a suction or vacuum effect and helps dislodge the debris
• Tip a large pot of boiling water down the drain – this will neutralize any grease or oil that may have entered.
• If you are confident that your drain is independent of the sewer system, pour a commercial drain cleaner down and wait for the chemical action to complete. Flush after 15 minutes with hot water
• If the waste water is not running freely after all the above attempts and you own a rodding set, you could try clearing the drain with a back and forth motion,

One of our London plumbers advises, “Blocked drains outside our properties are not always easy to clear and may not be our responsibility. Sometimes roots completely clog up a drain. They can even cause fractures, particularly in older clay pipes.”