Discovering a blockage in your outside drains can be extremely daunting as you prepare to pay the costs to get it cleared. When something goes wrong in the home, it can be stressful, but it’s important not to panic. When an outside drain is blocked, there are a few things to try before calling a professional. We’ve put together some of the DIY ways to unblock that pesky outside drain.
It’s important to understand that some drain blockages will require the help of a professional; this is inevitable. However, many blockages can be repaired with minimal effort and standard tools you may find around your home. If you don’t mind getting stuck in and getting a bit dirty, here’s what you can do.
Determine the Issue
Before any work begins, you’ll need to figure out what the problem is and if you can fix it. Remember that outside drains can become blocked with whatever has made its way down them as well as debris, leaves, grease and dirt.
Get Tools Together
If you’ve decided to have a go at removing the blockage yourself, you’re going to want to get the correct tools together. A set of drain rods will be ideal, which can be purchased from most DIY stores. You’ll also want to ensure you’re wearing appropriate protective clothing.
Remove the Cover
Outside drains have secure covers, which will need to be removed prior to unblocking; you may need a screwdriver to unblock yours. If you’re struggling to get yours off, try tying a rope around the handle and giving it a big pull.
Have a Look
Take a look to see if the drain chamber is filled with water. If the answer is yes, the blockage is likely to be somewhere after the chamber. If the chamber is empty, the blockage is likely to be before it. Work your way through the chamber, trying to locate one that is between a full and empty one.
Use your Drain Rods
Using the drain rods mentioned earlier, plunge them into the drain chamber and keep going until you feel as though you’ve extricated some blockage. Rotate the rods clockwise whilst slowly pushing them forwards. Continue doing so until you’ve gone through the blockage and broken up any grease and grime.
Clean Up
Once unblocked, run some fresh water through it. This will help to rinse away any leftover residue, preventing a blockage from occurring in the future. Finish up by pouring some bleach down the drain to ensure they are fully cleansed.
If you’re still struggling with a blockage in your outside drain, get in touch with the Happy Drains team. We’d be more than happy to identify the issue and unblock your drain for you at a competitive price. For more information, give us a call on 0800 849 8099 or visit our contact page.
