How To Unblock An Outside Drain Yourself In Cumbria

If you're a resident of Cumbria, you're probably well aware of the weather patterns in the region. The heavy rains that batter the county every now and then tend to cause a lot of drainage issues in the area. The most common problem that residents face during such spells is a blocked outside drain.

A blocked outside drain can quickly turn from a minor inconvenience to a major issue if not addressed promptly. If left unattended, a blockage in your drainage system can cause significant water damage to your property, and even worse, lead to health hazards. In most cases, residents look for assistance from drain unblocking companies, which can be costly.

However, with a little know-how, you can quickly unblock your outside drain yourself without having to call a professional. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to unblock an outside drain yourself in Cumbria.

Signs Of A Blocked Outside Drain

Before we delve into the specifics of how to unblock a drain, its crucial to identify the signs of a blocked drain. The most common indicators of a blocked outside drain include:

• Foul smells emanating from the drain.
• Slow draining water in your sink or bath.
• The presence of standing water around your drain.
• Gurgling noises from your sink when water is being drained.
• The water level in your toilet being higher than usual.

If you notice any of the above signs, then it's likely that your outside drain is blocked, and you need to take action before the situation gets worse.

Identify The Blockage

Once you've established that theres a blockage, the next step is to identify the exact location of the blockage. Knowing the location of the blockage plays a crucial role in determining the most effective method of unblocking.

In most cases, the blockage will be located near the area where the drain leaves your property towards the main sewer line. A blocked outside drain can usually be traced to a blocked trap, a blocked drainpipe, or an accumulation of debris in the pipe.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start unblocking your outside drain, ensure that you have the necessary tools for the job. Here are the tools you'll need.

• A sturdy pair of gloves
• A garden hose
• A plunger
• A drain snake (optional)
• A bucket

Steps To Unblock An Outside Drain

With the necessary tools in place, you're ready to start the unblocking process. The following steps will guide you in clearing a blocked outside drain.

Step 1: Safety First

Before you commence unblocking your outside drain, ensure that you take the necessary safety precautions. Wear a sturdy pair of gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects and debris as you work on the drain.

Step 2: Remove The Debris From The Surface

If the blockage is not deep into the drain, you can remove the debris from the drain's surface by hand or with a small shovel. Remove any obstructions you notice on the drain's surface carefully.

Step 3: Use A Garden Hose

If the blockage is severe and deep in the drain, use your garden hose to flush out the debris. Insert one end of the hose into the drain and turn the water on full force. The pressure of the water will help to dislodge any blockages.

Ensure that you insert the hose slowly to prevent any water from splashing back on you or your property. Once you start to see water flowing out the other end of the drain, your work is done.

Step 4: Use A Plunger

If using a garden hose does not work, try using a plunger. Apply petroleum jelly on the plunger's rubber end before inserting it into the drain. This creates a better seal around the plunger and allows it to work more effectively.

Ensure that there's enough water in the drain to cover the plunger's bottom. Push the plunger down with a bit of force to create suction. Release the plunger, and the suction created will help to dislodge the blockage.

Repeat the process several times until you start to notice water flowing again. If using a plunger does not work, move on to the next step.

Step 5: Use A Drain Snake

If all other methods have failed, try using a drain snake. A drain snake or auger is a long, flexible, and slender tool that you can insert into a drain to break up blockages. Ensure that you wear gloves before using a drain snake to protect your hands from sharp objects and debris.

Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise. Continue turning the handle until you feel some resistance. This signifies that the snake made contact with the blockage. Turning the handle further will help break up the blockage, allowing water to flow again. Pull out the snake while maintaining the clockwise motion.

Step 6: Rinse The Drain

Once youve cleared the blockage, use your garden hose to flush out an residual debris from the drain. This will help ensure that water flows out of the outside drain smoothly.

Conclusion

Unblocking an outside drain may seem like a daunting task, but with the above guide, it should be a breeze. Remember, if you're unsure about anything or if you feel that the blockage is severe, contact Drainage Cumbria at 01228 734162 for assistance. As a professional drain unblocking company based in Cumbria, we pride ourselves on offering fast, efficient, and affordable services to all our clients.