How to Clean Dishwasher Drain Pipe in Cumbria

If you are a homeowner in Cumbria or anywhere else, you know that there are some necessary maintenance tasks that should be carried out in your house. Keeping your kitchen clean and doing regular maintenance is crucial for your comfort and safety. One aspect that is often overlooked is your dishwasher drain pipe. Cleaning the dishwasher drain pipe can extend its lifespan and prevent unpleasant smells. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cleaning and maintaining your dishwasher drain pipe in Cumbria.

Drano Should You Use It?

Before we discuss how to clean your dishwasher drain pipe, let us address an important question. Should you use Drano to unclog your pipes? Drano is a popular brand of drain cleaner that promises to clear any clogs within minutes. However, while it may be tempting to reach for Drano or any other chemical drain cleaner, we do not recommend it. Chemical drain cleaners like Drano can cause damage to our plumbing system. They may corrode the pipes and, in some cases, make the clog worse. Instead of using Drano, try some of the alternative methods we outline below.

Use A Dishwasher Cleaning Solution

The first step in cleaning your dishwasher drain pipe is to use a dishwasher cleaning solution. Run your dishwasher through one cycle with the cleaning solution. The cleaning solution will help to remove any grime or food particles from the dishwasher. It is advisable to do this every few months to keep your dishwasher in good condition.

Always Clean Your Drain Hose

Once you have cleaned the dishwasher, it is time to focus on the drain hose. The drain hose is the tube that connects your dishwasher to the disposal or sink. Over time, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the drain hose, leading to a clog. To prevent this, you should clean the drain hose regularly.

Start by disconnecting the drain hose from the dishwasher. Next, use a small brush or a pipe cleaner to remove any debris that has accumulated inside the hose. Be careful not to damage the hose. After cleaning the drain hose, reconnect it to the dishwasher.

Clearing Clogs In Your Dishwasher Drain Pipe

If you have a clog in your dishwasher drain pipe, you can use a few different methods to clear it. The first method is to use a plunger. Place the plunger over the drain opening and apply pressure to create suction. Then, push and pull the plunger rapidly up and down. Repeat this process a few times until the clog is cleared.

Another way to clear a clog in your dishwasher drain pipe is to use a plumbing snake. A plumbing snake is a long, flexible cable that can be inserted into the pipe to clear the clog. To use a plumbing snake, insert it into the dishwasher drain pipe and turn the crank clockwise. This will push the snake further into the pipe, and the clog should be cleared.

Make Sure Power Is Off

It is important to note that before you attempt to clear a clog in your dishwasher drain pipe, you should turn off the power to your dishwasher. You can do this by turning off the circuit breaker that powers the dishwasher. This will prevent any electrocution or damage to your dishwasher.

Check The Dishwasher Air Gap

Another common reason for a clog in your dishwasher drain pipe is a blocked air gap. An air gap is a small device that prevents the dishwasher from drawing dirty water back into the dishwasher. If the air gap becomes blocked, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.

To check the air gap, remove the cover and look inside. You should see a small cylinder. If this is blocked, use a toothbrush or pipe cleaner to clean it out. Then, reassemble the air gap and turn on the dishwasher to see if the issue is resolved.

Common Kinks In Your Dishwasher Drain Hose

Finally, it is essential to look for other causes of clogs, such as kinks in your dishwasher drain hose. Kinks can cause water to back up and prevent your dishwasher from draining properly. Check the hose for any kinks or bends and straighten it out if necessary.

Cracks Or Dents In Your Dishwasher Drain Pipe

While cleaning your dishwasher drain pipe, it is also recommended to check for any cracks or dents. These can cause leaks, which can lead to water damage in your house. If you notice any cracks or dents, it is best to replace the pipe immediately.

Conclusion

Cleaning your dishwasher drain pipe may seem like a daunting task, but it is worth the effort. Regular maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your dishwasher running smoothly. By following the tips we have outlined in this article, you can keep your drain pipe clean, clear, and free from clogs. If you encounter any problems with your dishwasher drain pipe, do not hesitate to contact Drainage Cumbria. We are a drain cleaning company based in Cumbria, North West England, dedicated to providing excellent service to our customers. You can reach us at 01228 734162 or contact us via email at [email protected]. For more information about our services, visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk.