How To Unblock A Drain With A Plunger In Cumbria

Drain blockages can be a regular and serious issue for homeowners and businesses alike. A blocked drain can lead to unpleasant smells, stagnant water and in some cases, even flooding. If you're experiencing a blocked drain in Cumbria, it is recommended to call out a professional drain unblocking company, such as Drainage Cumbria. However, there is a cheap trick you can try first: unblocking the drain with a plunger.

Understanding Drain Blockages

Before attempting to unblock your drain, it is important to understand what causes a blockage. Common causes of a blocked drain include the build-up of hair, grease, food waste, and other foreign objects. As these substances accumulate in the pipes, they can form a solid blockage, preventing the water from flowing freely.

When to Use a Plunger

Plungers are a common tool used to unblock drains. If you have a minor blockage, using a plunger can be an effective way to free the blockage and return the drain to its normal flow. However, if you have a more serious blockage in your drain, it is not advised to use a plunger as it may exacerbate the problem. In these cases, it is recommended to call out a professional drain unblocking company.

Using a Plunger to Unblock Your Drain

If you're confident that your blockage is minor, you can try using a plunger to unblock your drain. Follow these steps:

1. Fill the sink or bath with enough water to cover the rubber base of the plunger. The water will create a seal and help the plunger to create suction, which is necessary to unblock the drain.
2. Position the plunger over the drain and press down firmly to seal the plunger to the plughole.
3. Push and pull the plunger up and down, with quick, forceful movements. This will create suction, and dislodge the blockage. Be careful not to push too hard as this may damage the pipe.
4. Repeat these steps until the water starts to drain, indicating that the blockage has been cleared.

Other DIY Methods to Unblock Your Drain

If using a plunger doesn't work, there are other DIY methods you can try to unblock your drain.

Use a Wire Snake

A wire snake is a long, flexible wire that can be inserted into the drain to remove blockages. To use a wire snake, follow these steps:

1. Insert the wire snake into the drain and push it through the pipe until you feel resistance.
2. Twist the wire snake back and forth to dislodge the blockage.
3. Gently pull the wire snake back out of the drain, removing any debris that may be attached.

Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar can be an effective way to remove blockages as the chemical reaction created when they mix helps to break down any blockages. To use baking soda and vinegar, follow these steps:

1. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar.
2. Wait for a few minutes to allow the mixture to work.
3. Pour boiling water down the drain to flush away any remaining debris.

Thoroughly Clean Your Plughole

Once your drain has been unblocked, it is important to thoroughly clean your plughole to prevent future blockages. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Use a limescale remover to remove any limescale build-up around the plughole.
2. Remove any loose hair or debris using your hands or a sponge.
3. Use a sponge to peek into the plughole and remove any remaining debris.
4. Pour water into the plughole to flush away any remaining debris and ensure that the water is draining correctly.

Get Professional Help

If you have a persistent or severe blockage in your drain, it is recommended to call out a professional drain unblocking company such as Drainage Cumbria. Our team of experts are trained to use the latest technology to unblock your drain quickly and safely, ensuring that the problem is resolved permanently.

About Drainage Cumbria

Drainage Cumbria is a professional drain unblocking company based in Cumbria, North West England. We offer a wide range of services including drain unblocking, CCTV drain surveys, and drain repair. With our many years of experience in the industry, we are confident that we can solve any drainage issues you may be experiencing. For more information, please contact us on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected]. Visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk to learn more about our services.