A blocked drain can be a huge inconvenience. Not only is it a hassle to deal with, but it can also lead to water damage and other costly problems. If you’re dealing with a blocked drain, don’t panic! There are many things that you can do to clear it yourself. Here are some tips that will help you get your drain unblocked in no time:
What Exactly Is A Blocked Drain?
A blocked drain is simply a drain that is clogged with debris. This can include hair, food scraps, grease, and soap scum. When these things build up in your drain, they can cause a blockage. This can lead to water backup, foul odours, and even flooding.
How Can You Clear A Blocked Drain?
There are many ways to clear a blocked drain, some of which are listed below. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right one for the job is essential. Here is a brief overview of how each of these methods works:
- Boiling water: Boiling water is one of the easiest ways to clear a blocked drain. All you need to do is pour boiling water down the drain until it clears. This method is quick and easy, but it can only be used on certain types of blockages.
- Natural cleaners: Many natural cleaners can be used to clear a blocked drain. These cleaners include vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. They are all safe to use, and they are effective at removing most types of blockages.
- Caustic cleaners: Caustic cleaners are chemical solutions that can be used to dissolve blockages in drains. They are effective at clearing clogs but can be dangerous if not handled properly.
- Plunger: A plunger is a simple tool that can be used to unblock drains. It creates a suction force that pushes debris out of the pipe and allows water to flow through freely.
- DIY drain snake: A drain snake is a long, flexible piece of wire that can be used to remove blockages from drains. It’s a relatively easy tool but can be dangerous if not handled properly.
- Plumbers drain snake: A plumber drain snake is a longer and more powerful version of a regular drain snake. It’s designed to clear stubborn blockages from drains.
- CCTV: Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a technology that can be used to inspect the inside of drains. This allows plumbers to see what is causing the blockage and how best to remove it. Call a plumber for a CCTV drain inspection if you are dealing with a stubborn blockage.
- Hydro Jet: Hydro jetting is a method of clearing blocked drains using high-pressure water. This method is effective at removing most types of blockages, but it can be expensive.
- Excavation: Excavation is clearing blocked drains by manually digging up the pipe and removing the blockage. This method should only be used as a last resort, as it can be very disruptive and costly.
- Pipe relining: Pipe relining is a method of repairing damaged or blocked drains without excavation. This method involves inserting a new pipe into the existing pipe to bypass the blockage.
Choosing the right method to clear your blocked drain will depend on several factors, including the type of blockage you have and your budget. Be sure to do some research before you decide on a method.
