Clearing Blocked Drains: Effective Tips and Tricks
- Update on October 3, 2023
- Written by Paul Slade
Blocked drains can become a serious problem if left untreated, which is why knowing ways of clearing blocked drains before they do damage is important. They can cause unpleasant odours, slow drainage or block water flow, and even cause flooding in severe cases.
There are several causes of clogged drains, including the build-up of grease, food debris, hair, and more. In addition, tree roots, collapsed pipes, and foreign objects can also cause a drain blockage. It is important to identify the cause of the clogged drain before attempting to clear it, as different methods may be required for different types of blockages. In some cases, it may be necessary to call in a professional plumber or drainage specialist to assess and clear blocked drains. However, you can prevent blocked drains with regular maintenance, which will maintain the quality and functionality of your plumbing for the long-term.
Table of Contents
Signs of a Blocked Drain
Clearing blocked drains is an important task for homeowners and renters alike. However, before you can clear a blocked drain, you need to identify that it is blocked. Here are some signs that you have a blocked drain:
Slow Drainage
One of the most common signs of a blocked drain is slow drainage. If you notice that your sink, shower, or bathtub is taking longer than usual to drain, it could be a sign that there is a blockage in the drain. Slow drainage can be caused by a build-up of hair, soap scum, or other debris either around the drain hole or further along in the pipe.
Unusual Sounds
If you hear gurgling or bubbling sounds when you flush the toilet or run the faucet, it could be a sign of a blocked drain. These sounds are caused by air bubbles trying to escape from the blocked drain. If you hear these sounds, it’s important to investigate the cause of the blockage as soon as possible.
Unpleasant Smells
Another sign of a blocked drain is unpleasant smells. If you notice a foul odour coming from your sink, shower, or bathtub, it could be a sign that there is a build-up of organic matter in the drain. This organic matter can include hair, soap scum, and food waste.
It’s important to note that unpleasant smells can also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a sewer line blockage. If you suspect that your drains are blocked, it’s important to investigate the cause of the blockage as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems down the line.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
While some blockages can be easily cleared with a plunger or drain snake, others may require professional help. Understanding the common causes of blocked drains can help you prevent future blockages and keep your drainage system in good working order.
Hair and Soap Scum
One of the most common causes of blocked drains is the buildup of hair and soap scum in bathroom drains. Over time, hair can get caught in the drain, creating a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. Soap scum can also accumulate in the drain, making it difficult for water to pass through. To prevent hair and soap scum buildup, consider using a drain cover or strainer to catch hair before it enters the drain. Regularly cleaning your drain with a mixture of hot water and vinegar can also help dissolve any soap scum buildup.
Foreign Objects
Foreign objects such as toys, sanitary products, and wet wipes can also cause blocked drains. These items can easily get caught in the drain and create a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. To prevent foreign objects from entering your drainage system, make sure that you dispose of waste properly and avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.
Grease and Fat Build-Up
Grease and fat build-up can also cause blocked drains, particularly in kitchen sinks. Over time, grease and fat can accumulate in the drain, creating a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. To prevent grease and fat build-up, avoid pouring cooking oil, grease, or fat down the drain. Instead, dispose of these items in the bin or recycle them if possible.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can also cause blocked drains, particularly in older homes with clay pipes. Over time, tree roots can grow into the pipes, creating a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. To prevent tree root damage, avoid planting trees or shrubs near your drainage system. If you suspect that tree roots are causing a blockage, consider contacting a professional plumber to assess the situation.
Preventing Drain Blockages
There are steps you can take to prevent drain blockages from occurring in the first place. Some of the most effective preventative measures include:
Regular Cleaning
One of the most important things you can do to prevent drain blockages is to keep your drains clean. Regular cleaning can help to remove any build-up of debris or other materials that could cause a blockage. Here are some tips for keeping your drains clean:
- Use a plunger to clear any minor blockages before they become more serious.
- Pour boiling water down the drain once a week to help dissolve any grease or fat build-up.
- Use a drain cleaner or enzyme-based cleaner to break down any organic matter that may be causing a blockage.
Proper Waste Disposal
Proper waste disposal is another key factor in preventing drain blockages. Here are some tips for disposing of waste correctly:
- Do not pour cooking oil or grease down the drain. Instead, allow it to cool and dispose of it in the bin.
- Do not flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. This includes wet wipes, sanitary products, and cotton buds.
- Use a sink strainer to catch any food scraps or other debris before it enters the drain.
Drain Guards
Another effective preventative measure is to use drain guards. Drain guards are designed to catch any debris or other materials that may be causing a blockage. Here are some types of drain guards you can use:
- Sink strainers: These are placed over the sink drain to catch any food scraps or other debris.
- Shower drain covers: These are placed over the shower drain to catch any hair or soap scum.
- Gutter guards: These are placed over gutters to prevent leaves and other debris from entering the drain.
DIY Drain Clearing Methods
When faced with a blocked drain, some people prefer to try and fix the problem themselves before calling in a professional plumber. Here are some common DIY methods for clearing blocked drains:
Plunging
One of the most popular DIY methods for clearing blocked drains is using a plunger. A plunger creates suction that can help to dislodge the blockage. To use a plunger, follow these steps:
- Fill the sink, bathtub, or toilet bowl with enough water to cover the plunger head.
- Place the plunger over the drain and make sure it creates a tight seal.
- Push down and pull up on the plunger rapidly, creating suction.
- Repeat until the water drains freely.
Drain Snakes
Another DIY method for clearing blocked drains is using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up and remove the blockage. To use a drain snake, follow these steps:
- Insert the snake into the drain and twist it clockwise and counterclockwise to break up the blockage.
- Pull the snake out and dispose of any debris that may have come out with it.
- Repeat until the water drains freely.
Chemical Cleaners
Chemical cleaners are another option for clearing blocked drains. These cleaners use powerful chemicals to dissolve the blockage. However, they can be harmful to the environment and may damage your pipes if used improperly. To use a chemical cleaner, follow the instructions on the label carefully.
It is important to note that while these DIY methods can be effective for minor blockages, they may not be enough for more serious issues. If the blockage persists or if there are other plumbing issues, it is best to call in a professional plumber.
When to Call a Professional
Clearing blocked drains can be a frustrating and time-consuming task. While some minor blockages can be resolved with a plunger or drain snake, more severe blockages may require the assistance of a professional. Here are some signs that it may be time to call in a professional:
- Recurring blockages: If you find yourself dealing with the same blockage repeatedly, it may be a sign of a more serious issue that requires professional attention. A professional plumber can identify and resolve the underlying cause of the blockage, preventing it from happening again in the future.
- Foul odours: If your drains emit an unpleasant odour even after cleaning, it may be a sign of a blockage further down the line. A professional can use specialised equipment to locate and remove the blockage, eliminating the odour and improving the overall hygiene of your home.
- Slow draining: If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slowly, it may be a sign of a blockage in the drain. While a plunger or drain snake may temporarily resolve the issue, a professional can use high-pressure water jets to clear the blockage completely, restoring proper drainage.
- Gurgling sounds: If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, it may be a sign of a blockage in the sewer line. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including tree roots, foreign objects, or a collapsed pipe. A professional can use a camera inspection to identify the cause of the blockage and determine the best course of action.
In general, if you are unsure about the cause or severity of a blockage, it is best to call in a professional. Attempting to resolve a blockage yourself can lead to further damage to your plumbing system, resulting in costly repairs down the line. A professional plumber has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to resolve even the most stubborn blockages quickly and effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Identifying a blocked drain involves noticing slow drainage, unusual sounds, and unpleasant smells.
- Common causes include hair, soap scum, foreign objects, grease, and tree roots.
- Prevention involves regular cleaning, proper waste disposal, and using drain guards.
- DIY clearing methods include plunging, drain snakes, and careful use of chemical cleaners.
- Professional help is recommended for recurring, severe blockages or when DIY methods fail.
Clear Blocked Drains with the Help of a Professional – Contact Plumbers Express Today
Plumbers Express can help eradicate blockages and build-up in your drain systems, and ensure your plumbing continues working at its best.
Our team of plumbing specialists are fully qualified and insured – contact us today for all your plumbing needs!
