How to Clear a Blocked Drain Outside in Cumbria

Are you experiencing a blocked drain outside your property in Cumbria and not sure how to remedy the issue? Drainage Cumbria is here to help! As a blocked drains company in Cumbria, we've seen our fair share of outdoor drain blockages and know exactly what needs to be done to clear them up.

Outdoor Drains and their Common Problems

Outdoor drainage systems mainly consist of a hose or a drain that moves water away from your property to prevent excess runoff. However, it's common for these drain systems to become blocked, causing water to back up and flood your yard or even inside your property.

There are several reasons for outdoor drain blockages. One of the most common is the accumulation of debris such as leaves, dirt, and other waste that can find their way into your hose or drain. When this happens, the pathway for water to pass through becomes narrower, ultimately shutting it down altogether. Other causes can include excess soil or mud, which can make their way into the drain, or tree roots that have grown into the pipe.

Regardless of the cause, a blocked drain can cause a significant inconvenience and may require an emergency call to a professional drains company in Cumbria like Drainage Cumbria.

Accessing the Outside Drain

Before we dive into the methods to clear an outside drain, it's essential to locate and access the drain. This may require a little bit of digging or excavation, depending on where the drain is located. Once located, remove the drain cover or arm to get a better look at the blockage.

Clearing the Blockage

Now let's move on to tackling the blockage. There are several methods that can be used to clear an outdoor drain blockage. Often, the first step is to try tying a simple debris-catching rope around the problematic area and pulling it out, taking the blockage with it. This method can work wonders, but if it doesn't, then it's time to try something a bit more advanced.

One of the most effective ways to clear an outdoor drain blockage is by using a pressure hose. The pressure hose is a powerful tool that releases a high-pressure water jet into the blocked area to shift any matter causing the blockage. To do this, you'll need to connect the hose to a source of water and place the nozzle into the drain. Make sure the pressure is gentle at first, then gradually increase it to dislodge and push the matter through the pipe. However, avoid using a pressure hose if you have a septic system, as it can cause harm to the system.

If the blockage is not in the hose but deeper into the pipe, you may need to use a drain rod. Drain rods are long sticks specifically designed to be inserted into the drain and pushed through to clear any blockages. These rods can be challenging to use, so it's best to leave this method to the professionals.

Sometimes, the blockage may appear just inside the drain or pipe, and the problem may be solved with a quick clean. This can be done by hand or with the aid of a brush or rod, depending on the location of the blockage.

Checking Inside the Property

If the water still won't disappear after clearing outside the drain, it's time to check inside the property. In this case, the blockage may not be outside but inside the property, and you'll need to locate the blockage's exact location.

To do this, check all the pipes and fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom. If any of these are blocked, it means the blockage is inside the property, and you'll need to clear the blockage. The good news is that most bathroom and kitchen drain blockages can be easily cleared with a plunger or a drain-cleaning solution.

Avoiding Future Blockages

Prevention is better than cure. To avoid outdoor drain blockages in Cumbria, consider installing a drain cover, which can collect and prevent any debris from entering the pipe. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of your outdoor drainage system can prevent blockages from happening in the first place.

Conclusion

Clearing outdoor drain blockages can be a daunting task. However, with these methods and tools, your drain can be cleared in no time. Remember, if you need an emergency blocked drains company in Cumbria, Drainage Cumbria is just a call away. Give us a call at 01228 734162 or fill out the contact form on our website at drainagecumbria.uk, and we'll handle the rest.