How to Unblock the Outside Drain in Cumbria

If you live in Cumbria, you may have experienced a blocked outside drain at some point. Blocked outside drains can cause foul smells, flooding, and pose a health risk to you and your family. As a drain unblocking company based in Cumbria, Drainage Cumbria understands the frustration that comes with blocked drains. In this guide, we'll go over the steps you can take to unblock your outside drain and prevent blockages from occurring in the future.

What Causes Blockages in Outside Drains?

Before we dive into how to unblock your outside drain, it's important to understand what causes blockages in the first place. Some common causes of blockages in outside drains include:

• Leaves and other debris
• Grease and oil
• Hair and soap scum
• Food waste
• Toilet paper and sanitary products
• Foreign objects

Signs of a Blocked Outside Drain

Now that you know what can cause a blocked outside drain, it's important to be aware of the signs that your drain is blocked. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Foul smells coming from the drain
• Gurgling noises when flushing the toilet or using the sink
• Slow draining water in sinks, bathtubs, and showers
• Standing water around the outside drain
• Water backing up into the toilet or sink

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to act quickly before the blockage worsens.

How to Unblock the Outside Drain

Unblocking an outside drain can be a messy and unpleasant task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done quickly and efficiently. Here's how to unblock your outside drain:

1. Wear protective gear - Before you start unblocking the drain, it's important to protect yourself from any potential harm. Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing to avoid skin irritation and exposure to harmful bacteria.

2. Remove debris from the drain - Use a pair of tongs, a wire coat hanger, or a drain snake to remove any visible debris from the drain. Be careful not to push the debris further down the pipe, as this can cause a blockage further down the line.

3. Use a plunger - If the blockage is still present, try using a plunger to dislodge it. Place the plunger over the drain and create a seal around it. Push and pull the plunger vigorously to create suction and dislodge the blockage.

4. Use a drain snake - If the plunger doesn't work, try using a drain snake to clear the blockage. Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to rotate the snake and push it further down the pipe. When you feel resistance, rotate the snake in the opposite direction to dislodge the blockage.

5. Flush the drain - Once the blockage has been cleared, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris and ensure that the water is draining properly.

Preventing Future Blockages

To prevent future blockages in your outside drain, there are a few things you can do:

• Regularly updating your drainage system - This could include installing new pipes or examining the existing ones to check for any damage or signs of wear and tear.

• Be mindful of what goes down the drain - Avoid putting anything other than water, toilet paper, and human waste down the drain. This includes food waste, grease, oil, and foreign objects.

• Regularly cleaning your kitchen sink and drains - Wipe down your kitchen sink after use and run hot water down the drain to prevent any build-up of food waste or grease.

When to Call a Professional

If you've tried all of the above steps and are still unable to unblock your outside drain, it may be time to call a professional. A professional drain unblocking company will have the necessary tools and expertise to clear even the toughest blockages. Drainage Cumbria is here to help with all of your drain unblocking needs in Cumbria and the North West England region.

Health Risks

Blocked outside drains can cause foul smells and sewage overflow. This can be harmful to both humans and pets. Sewage overflow can contain harmful bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal infections and other illnesses.

Conclusion

Blocked outside drains can be an unpleasant and frustrating experience, but with the right tools and techniques, they can be cleared quickly and efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking preventive measures to avoid future blockages, you can keep your outside drain free from blockages and ensure that your home and family remain safe and healthy. If you need assistance in clearing your outside drainage blockage, contact Drainage Cumbria at 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected].