How Do You Unblock Outside Drains in Cumbria?

Drain blockages are a common occurrence in any property, and they can cause a lot of inconvenience and damage if not taken care of promptly. Blocked drains can cause water to back up and flood your property, leading to costly repairs and even health hazards. To avoid these issues, it is vital to know how to unblock outside drains in Cumbria. Drainage Cumbria is a drain unblocking company in Cumbria that offers expert solutions to blocked drains in the region. In this guide, we will take a closer look at some of the common causes of blocked outside drains and provide some tips on how to unblock them.

Understanding the Drainage System

The first thing to understand when dealing with blocked outside drains is the drainage system. In any property, the drainage system comprises a network of pipes that collect and remove water and waste from your property. The system is designed to transport wastewater from your bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room to the main sewer or septic tank. The system also includes surface water drains that collect rainwater from your property and transport it to the nearest watercourse.

Causes of Blocked Outside Drains

Blocked outside drains are caused by a variety of factors. One of the most common causes is the buildup of debris and sediment in the pipes. This can be caused by anything from food waste and cooking grease to leaves, dirt, and other outdoor debris. The buildup of debris can cause a clog in the drain, preventing water from flowing through the pipes. Another common cause of blocked outside drains is tree roots. Tree roots can grow into the drain pipes and cause blockages, which can lead to water backing up into your property. Structural damage to the pipes is also a common cause of blocked outside drains. Old pipes can become corroded, cracked, or misaligned, leading to blockages and water damage.

Signs of a Blocked Outside Drain

If you suspect that your outside drain is blocked, there are certain signs to look out for. The first thing you might notice is that water is slow to drain from your sinks, bathtub, or shower. You might also hear a gurgling sound coming from your drains when you flush the toilet or run water in the sink. Another sign of a blocked outside drain is the presence of foul odors emanating from your drains. If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to take prompt action to prevent the blockage from worsening.

How to Unblock Outside Drains

Now that you understand the causes of blocked outside drains let's look at some tips for unblocking them.

1. Identify the Blockage

The first thing to do when trying to unblock an outside drain is to identify the blockage. This will help you determine the best way to remove the blockage. The easiest way to do this is by removing the drain cover and inspecting the pipes for any visible signs of a blockage. If the blockage is not visible, you might need to use a drain camera to locate it.

2. Use Drain Rods

One of the most effective ways to unblock outside drains is to use drain rods. Drain rods are long, flexible rods that are used to push or pull the blockage through the pipes. To use drain rods, remove the drain cover and insert the rods into the pipe. Push the rods through the pipe until you reach the blockage. Once you have located the blockage, use the rods to break it up and push it through the pipe.

3. Unblock the Surface Water Drain

If your outside drain is a surface water drain, a common cause of blockages is the buildup of leaves and debris in the grate. To unblock the surface water drain, remove the grate and clear any debris that might be blocking the drain. You can use a brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove the debris. Once you have removed the blockage, replace the grate and test the drain to ensure that the water is flowing correctly.

4. Use a Plunger

If you have a blocked toilet or kitchen sink that is causing the blockage in your outside drain, a plunger can be an effective way to remove the blockage. Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down vigorously. This will create suction and force the blockage through the pipes.

5. Call a Professional

If you are unable to unblock your outside drain using these methods or if the blockage is too severe, it might be time to call a professional drain unblocking company. Drainage Cumbria is a drain unblocking company in Cumbria that offers expert solutions to blocked drains in the region. Our team of experienced technicians is equipped with the latest tools and equipment needed to unblock even the most stubborn of blockages.

Preventing Blocked Outside Drains

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to blocked outside drains. Here are some tips to help you prevent blocked outside drains:

• Do not pour cooking oil or grease down your drains
• Use mesh screens to capture hair and other debris before they enter the drain
• Regularly remove leaves and debris from surface water drains
• Install tree guards to prevent tree roots from growing into your drains
• Have your drainage system inspected and cleaned every year

Conclusion

Blocked outside drains can be a hassle, but with the right knowledge and tools, they can be unblocked in no time. Drainage Cumbria is a drain unblocking company in Cumbria that offers expert solutions to blocked drains in the region. We hope that this guide has provided you with some valuable insights on how to unblock outside drains and prevent them from happening in the future. If you have any questions or would like to book our services, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected].