Blocked drains are a common issue that many people experience, leading to foul smells and water that won’t drain. Ignoring the problem can quickly turn into a nightmare, but fortunately, there are ways to clear a blocked drain yourself.
The Signs of a Blocked Drain
Here are the signs of a blocked drain:
Foul smell – an unusual sewage-like scent is often the first sign of a blocked drain.
Overflowing – if your drain is overflowing, it means there’s a blockage.
Gurgling sounds – water pooling and pushing against the pipe produces gurgling sounds, which usually indicates a blockage.
Slow draining – water pooling for longer than expected when emptying your sink or taking a shower is another sign of a blockage.
What Causes a Blocked Drain
There are many things that can cause a blocked drain, and it’s important to understand what these are so you can take steps to prevent them from happening. Several factors can cause blocked drains, including:
Tree roots – growing roots can breach the pipe and cause a blockage.
Toiletries – nappies, baby wipes, and sanitary products should not be flushed down the toilet.
Foreign objects – toys and other objects can become lodged in the u-bend.
Cooking oil and food scraps – cooking oil and coffee grounds can clump together with food debris, causing a blockage.
Mineral build-up – calcium and other minerals can build up in pipes, causing constriction and making it easier for other blockages to form.
Hair – hair can mix with other substances and become a major cause of a blocked drain.
Natural debris – leaves, twigs, dirt, and grit can fall into outdoor drains.
Cat litter – when exposed to water, cat litter clumps together and expands, causing a blockage.
How to Fix a Blocked Drain
Fortunately, there are several solutions to this common household problem. Whether it’s a clogged sink or a backed-up shower drain, there are several things you can do to fix the issue and prevent it from happening again in the future. To clear a blocked drain, you can try various home remedies, such as:
Boiling water – pour boiling water down the drain to tackle blockages caused by grease, conditioner, and some toiletries.
Natural cleaners – a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar creates a fizzing effect that breaks up blockages.
Caustic cleaners – caustic cleaners dissolve grease, fat, and oils and are ideal for tougher blockages.
Plungers – form a seal around the plug hole and use a vacuum effect to remove the blockage.
DIY drain snake – make a drain snake out of thin metal wire and use it to fish out local blockages made of hair.
Plumbers drain snake – an advanced tool that only a professional should use to remove blockages from deep within the system.
Dealing with a blocked drain can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience, but it’s a common problem that many people face. Ignoring the problem can lead to more significant issues, so it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. By understanding the signs of a blocked drain and the causes, you can take steps to prevent future blockages from occurring.
With the right tools and techniques, you can clear a blocked drain yourself and avoid the need for costly professional help. So, the next time you encounter a blocked drain, don’t panic. Remember these tips, and you’ll be able to tackle the problem quickly and efficiently.
