How To Clear A Blocked Outdoor Drain In Cumbria: Techniques And Tips

If you're a resident or business owner in Cumbria, it's not unusual to experience drainage problems from time to time. With the region's unpredictable rainfall and seasonal weather patterns, it's no surprise that the drains around your property can become blocked.

Blocked drains can be a severe cause of concern, as they can cause water damage, lead to unpleasant odours, and pose a health risk. However, you need not panic, as there are some simple techniques you can try to unblock your outdoor drain without calling a professional.

In this guide, Drainage Cumbria, a blocked drains company in Cumbria, will outline some techniques you can try to clear a blocked outdoor drain in Cumbria. From using a pressure hose to clearing debris, we've got all the tips you need to get your drains flowing again.

What Causes A Blocked Drain?

The first step in unblocking a drain is understanding what causes a blockage to occur. Often, outdoor drainage problems stem from debris or dirt build-up in the drainage pipes, which can lead to blockages. Other factors that may cause blockages include:

• Flushing inappropriate items down the toilet.
• Pouring grease or oil down the sink.
• Blockages in the kitchen sink or washing machine outlet.
• Poor maintenance of the outdoor drain system.

Signs Of A Blocked Drain

It's essential to know the signs of a blocked drain because the longer the blockage is left, the more serious the problem can become. Some signs of a blocked outdoor drain include:

• A foul smell emanating from the drain area.
• Water backing up in sinks, toilets, and other drainage outlets.
• Puddles forming near the drain area.
• Unpleasant odours originating from the drains.
• Slow drainage or complete blockage in the drain.

If you notice any of the above signs, it's likely that you have a blocked drain that needs clearing.

How To Clear A Blocked Drain

While blocked drains can cause severe problems, you don't need to call a professional every time you have an issue. There are many techniques and tips you can use to clear a blocked outdoor drain in Cumbria.

1. Pressure Hose

One of the quickest ways to clear a blocked drain is by using a pressure hose. This type of equipment uses high-pressure water jets to blast away any debris or dirt that may be causing the blockage. To use a pressure hose effectively:

• Insert the pressure hose into the blocked drain.
• Turn on the water and jet it through the drain, increasing the pressure until the blockage clears.
• Place a bucket under the drain to catch any debris that may come out.

It's essential to be cautious when using a pressure hose, as it can cause damage to your pipes if used incorrectly. If you're not confident using a pressure hose, it's best to call a professional.

2. Clearing Debris

Another simple technique to clear a blocked drain is by clearing out any debris manually. First, locate the blockage in the drain system. Then, using a pair of rubber gloves, remove any materials that may be blocking the flow.

It's essential to dispose of the waste correctly and safely, as some blockages may contain hazardous materials. If you're not sure what you're dealing with or do not have protective equipment, it's best to call a professional.

3. Check The Cover

Sometimes, the drain cover may be the cause of the blockage. Over time, dirt and debris can get caught in the cover, reducing the flow of water into the drain. To check if this is the issue:

• Remove the drain cover.
• Clean it thoroughly, removing any dirt and debris caught in it.
• Place the cover back over the drain.

This method works best for minor blockages caused by debris in the cover.

4. Investigate Kitchen Sink Or Bathroom Blockage

If the blockage is occurring in the kitchen sink or bathroom, it's essential to investigate the problem at the source. Often, blockages in sinks or toilets occur because people are disposing of inappropriate items down them.

To clear a sink or toilet blockage, try using a plunger to remove any blockages. If this doesn't work, try using a drain unblocker solution.

5. Cleaning The Drainage System

It's essential to keep your drainage system clean to prevent blockages from occurring. Regular cleaning of your drainage system will reduce debris and dirt build-up and keep the drains flowing smoothly. To clean your drainage system:

• Use a drain cleaner solution.
• Pour the solution down the drain, following the instructions on the bottle.
• Leave the solution for a few hours or overnight.
• Rinse the solution out of the drain with hot water.

6. Get Professional Help

If all of the above methods fail, it may be time to call a professional. Drainage experts have the equipment and knowledge to unblock even the most stubborn blockages.

If you're in Cumbria, Drainage Cumbria can help. We're a professional blocked drains company in Cumbria, and we have the knowledge and expertise to clear your blocked drain quickly and efficiently. You can contact us on 01228 734162 or through our website, www.drainagecumbria.uk.

Conclusion

If you have a blocked outdoor drain in Cumbria, don't feel overwhelmed. By using the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can clear the blockage and get your drains flowing smoothly again. Remember, if all else fails, it's best to call a professional to ensure that the problem is dealt with effectively and safely.