Blocked drains are a common, yet frustrating problem faced by homeowners and businesses. Whether you are experiencing a slow-draining sink or a completely clogged sewer line, quick intervention is crucial to prevent long lasting damage and to restore functionality. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about drain unblocking, from domestic solutions for your home, to advanced commercial methods, and why hiring professionals is the best choice.
Domestic Drain Unblocking
Common Causes of Blocked Drains at Home
When drains become blocked in your home, it is often caused by everyday activities, activities that seem harmless at first, but overtime can cause serious issues to your drainage system.
Some common culprits include:
Hair buildup in bathroom drains
When your shower becomes blocked, its often due to hair buildup and this is a common issue people face. Hair from you, your family or your pets can easily make its way down the drain, where it combines with soap, shampoo, and other debris.
Over time the hair combines with other materials and forms a sticky, dense mass that attaches itself to the insides of your pipes and gradually narrows the flow of water. As this accumulates it creates a tangled mess that can completely block a drain, leading to water backup and slow drainage, and often a bad smell. Hair is also notoriously difficult to break down as it doesn’t dissolve in water or break up over time like other organic materials.
Grease and food waste in kitchen sinks
One of the most common causes for drain blockages in your kitchen is the accumulation of grease, food waste, fats and oils. These substances are a nightmare for your drainage system and can easily get trapped in pipes, leading to serious clogs. When large amounts of grease or oil are poured down your drain, they solidify as they cool, creating a sticky residue that can build up over time. Similarly, food scraps, even small ones, can quickly accumulate inside pipes obstructing water flow and causing blockages. It may seem harmless to rinse your plate down the sink, but these materials often get stuck to the inside of your pipes, leading to very sticky situations.
If you are a frequent cook, its essential to be mindful of what goes down your drain. Always avoid disposing of grease, oils or food scraps into the sink! Instead, you can collect oil and grease overtime in a container and use a cooking oil recycling service such as Olleco.
Soap scum and mineral deposits
There is nothing worse than that slimy layer of soap scum that forms around your plumbing fixtures, but its more than just an eyesore. It also contributes to blocked drains. Soap scum forms when soap reacts with minerals found in hard water, creating a gooey residue that can stick to the inside of your pipes, shower walls and faucets. Over time this buildup can accumulate inside your drainage system, narrowing the passage for water.
As the soap scum continues to build, it can combine with other debris, such as hair and dirt, which further restricts water flow, eventually leading to blockages. Additionally, soap scum creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, so can lead to very unpleasant odours.
Foreign objects accidentally flushed down toilets
Toilet paper is specifically designed to break down and dissolve quickly in water, items like sanitary products, wet wipes, paper towels, cotton balls and even facial tissues are not. These materials are much more durable and can struggle to move through your plumbing system, creating significant blockages.
When foreign objects are flushed, they can get caught in the toilet pipe junctions, forming stubborn clogs that block the water from flowing freely. This can lead to slow drainage, unpleasant odours and potentially an overflowing toilet. Many of these items are non-biodegradable and will accumulate over time, making it increasingly difficult for your toilet to function correctly.
Even some products, like wet wipes, that are advertised as “flushable” still don’t break down as quickly as toilet paper, so can still cause issues if used regularly and they can easily combine with other debris creating difficult to remove blockages.
Buildup of these foreign objects and larger objects flushed by mistake, can even damage your pipes causing cracks, leaks and complete pipe failure.
Signs Your Drain Is Blocked
Although possible, it’s unlikely that first sign you experience with a blocked drain is flooding of your toilet or sink, there are usually earlier signs that if picked up can save you a lot of expense, stress and damage. They may not be as noticeable, but warnings signs could include:
Water draining slowly
One of the first signs of a potentially blocked drain is when water begins to drain slower than usual. This might be subtle at first but overtime the drainage will likely become slower and slower until it stops all together. This slow drainage is caused by buildup of debris, hair, soap or food waste and these have caused the pipes to become partially obstructed, preventing water flowing freely. This is normally noticed through a slow draining toilet and understanding the early warning signs and acting on them can prevent further disruption.
While initially it might seem like a minor inconvenience, it’s important to address slow drainage as soon as you notice it. If left untreated, small blockages can worsen and lead to much more serious drainage issues, such as causing your sink, bathtub or toilet backing up entirely. Additionally, a slow-draining drain could indicate a larger underlying issue, such as tree roots invading your pipes, or build-up of grease in the system. Acting early can help prevent more significant damage to your plumbing and save you from more expensive repairs.
Foul odours emanating from sinks or drains
Foul odours coming from your sinks or drains are often an early warning sign that something is amiss with your plumbing. These unpleasant smells typically occur when food particles, grease, soap scum, hair, or other debris begin to accumulate in your pipes. As this material breaks down over time, it can create an environment for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive, which in turn release unpleasant, musty, or sewage-like odours.
The odours can vary in strength and location, from a faint smell in your shower, to an overpowering smell that fills the room. If the smell is persistent or worsens over time, it indicates that the buildup is becoming significant and could lead to more serious plumbing issues if left unaddressed.
Another sign that the odour is connected to a drainage problem, is if it comes and goes with the flow of water. For instance, you may notice a bad smell when you turn on a tap of flush the toilet. This is due to the blockage getting temporarily moved by the water flow.
If you have begun notice foul smells from your drains, its important to take note, as these odours can indicate a developing problem, that could worsen if ignored.
Gurgling sounds in pipes
If you begin hearing strange gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from your pipes, its usually a sign that something is wrong with your drainage system. These sounds often occur when air is trapped in the pipes, due to a blockage or partial clog. When water tries to flow through the pipes but is obstructed, the trapped air is forced out, creating the distinctive gurgling sound that you hear.
You might notice these sounds after flushing a toilet or using your sink. It could also happen when water drains from other fixtures in your home, such as a dishwasher. In some cases, the gurgling sounds may be faint and occur intermittently, but they can also become more frequent and pronounced as the blockage increases and the water flow is more consistently disrupted.
Overflowing toilets or sinks
Overflowing toilets or sinks are one of the most noticeable and alarming signs of a serious problem with your drainage system and are often a result of a significant blockage. If you notice that your water begins to rise and spill over the edges of your toilet or sink, it usually means that the water is unable to flow through the pipes because something is obstructing the drain. This could be due to a buildup of debris, such as hair, food waste, grease or foreign objects.
Not only is an overflowing toilet or sink inconvenient, but it can also lead to water damage in your home, unsanitary living conditions, and even health hazards if left untreated. The water that overflows may carry bacteria, germs, and waste material, not only creating unpleasant odours but also making your home less hygienic.
How to Unblock a Drain
Although not recommended, which will be explained why shortly, if you want to try and unblock a drain at home yourself, there a few DIY methods you could choose. These solutions can help with small clogs caused by soap scum, food waste, or hair, but it is important to keep in mind that not all blockages are easy to resolve and there may be a larger issue that you are unaware of, and so attempting the unblocking yourself could lead to worsening of the issues, or even causing significant damage to your drainage system.
Here are a few methods you can try for minor blockages:
Plunger
A classic and well-known tool for unclogging drains, a plunger creates a suction that helps dislodge blockages in toilets, sinks and bathtubs. Make sure you use the right type of plunger for the specific feature you are trying to unblock. Plunge vigorously a few times and see if the clog clears. If the water begins to drain slowly but doesn’t completely clear, then it may be that the clog is too stubborn for a plunger alone.
Boiling water
Poring boiling water down a drain can help dissolve grease, soap scum and other organic material that may have built up inside the pipes. This method works well for kitchen sinks and bathtubs where grease and soap scum are common. Be cautious when using boiling water, especially on older fragile pipes, as it could cause damage or loosen existing seals.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Combining baking soda and vinegar is a natural, chemical-free way to break down minor blockages. You should pour about a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes while it works its magic, then flush away with hot water. This solution can help dissolve smaller clogs caused by organic material or minor soap scum buildup.
Drain Snakes
Finally, a drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a long, flexible tool designed to physically break through clogs and pull-out debris. You can purchase or rent a drain snake from most stores that sell plumbing products. Insert it into the drain, twist, and push until it reaches the block. Once you feel some resistance, turn the handle to break up the clog and pull out the debris.
When to call a professional drain unblocking expert
Whilst all these options can be effective for minor blockages and clogs, it is important to know when to call a drainage engineer. If the blockage persists after attempting a DIY method, or if you notice signs that the issue is more serious, such as water backing up, foul smells or overflowing sinks and toilets, its time to get professional help. Trying to tackle a stubborn clog yourself can sometimes make the problem worse, it could cause the debris to move further into the system or worse case, cause damage to your pipes.
A drainage expert will have the right tools and experience to identify the root cause of the blockage, for example CCTV equipment to inspect any underlying issues. In most cases, the best cause of action is to call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of a blockage to prevent further damage to your system and to avoid unnecessary repairs. Although these methods might work on the surface level, sometimes, the issues is far deeper routed in the pipe network and the actual blockage is within your outside drain system.
Commercial Drain Unblocking
Commercial properties, such as restaurants, hotels, offices and shopping centres face unique drainage challenges that differ significantly from residential properties. Due to their higher foot traffic, increased usage of plumbing features and a wide variety of activities, commercial drains are subject to more frequent stress and strain. These issues are often compounded by the complexity and size of the drainage systems, which need to accommodate larger volumes of waste and water.
Below are some of the common drainage problems that commercial properties face:
Heavy grease and food waste buildup in commercial kitchens
In commercial kitchens, such as in restaurants and hotels, one of the biggest challenges is dealing with the heavy buildup of grease and food waste. Cooking oils, fats and grease are natural byproducts of food preparation and often get washed down the sink or floor drains. Over time these substances combine and harden, forming thick, sticky layers inside pipes.
When the grease accumulates, it can significantly narrow the interior of the pipes, obstructing water flow and eventually leading to blockages. These types of blockages are particularly problematic because they don’t always show immediate signs, many gradually worsen until the drainage system is overwhelmed. Additionally, food waste, such as scraps or solids that are improperly washed down the drain, can then mix with the grease, creating an even more stubborn clog.
To prevent grease and food waste buildup, commercial kitchens should install grease traps and interceptors that catch grease before it enters the drainage system. Regular maintenance of these traps is essential to ensure they remain functional.
To prevent grease and food waste buildup, commercial kitchens should install grease traps and interceptors that catch grease before it enters the drain system. Regular maintenance of these traps is essential to ensure they remain functional.
Sanitary product blockages in public restrooms
Public toilets in commercial buildings often face another significant drainage issue: blockages caused by sanitary products, such as tampons and wipes. These items though sometimes marketed as “flushable” do not break down in water the way toilet paper does. Instead, they can easily block pipes, especially when they accumulate in large quantities, or get tangled with other debris.
In high-traffic public bathrooms, this issue can quickly escalate, as toilets may become frequently blocked with such items, leading to overflowing and water damage. In some cases, these clogs can even cause the whole system to back up, affecting multiple toilets or sinks around the building.
To prevent these types of issues, its essential for commercial properties to install clear signage in bathrooms advising uses to not flush anything other than toilet paper. Additionally, using high-quality toilet paper and providing proper disposal options for sanitary products can help. Periodic plumbing inspections and maintenance can also ensure that drains are kept clear of any potential blockages before they cause major problems.
Large-scale debris in outdoor drains
Outdoor drainage systems, particularly in commercial properties with large car parks, landscaping, and other outdoor features, are frequently clogged by large-scale debris. Leaves, branches, rubbish, dirt, and even mud can wash into drains during heavy rainfall or wind, leading to blockages that prevent proper water flow. In car parks, oil and fuel spills can also add to the problem by clogging up the drainage system.
In areas where there are large amounts of foot traffic or heavy vehicles, debris may accumulate more quickly, resulting in frequent blockages. Over time, these clogs can cause water pooling, erosion, or even flooding if the drainage system is unable to efficiently carry excess water away from the property.
To mitigate this, commercial properties should ensure that outdoor drains are regularly cleaned and cleared of debris, especially in autumn when leaves are most likely to collect. Installing effective drainage grates or filters can help catch large debris before it enters the system. It’s also crucial to inspect the condition of outdoor drains regularly and remove any build-up that may obstruct water flow, particularly after storms or periods of high traffic.
Additional Drainage Considerations for Commercial Properties
Beyond the specific issues outlined above, commercial drainage systems can face a range of other challenges due to their complexity and scale. Larger properties may have more extensive pipe networks, which can lead to blockages occurring further down the line, sometimes making it harder to detect the source of the problem. The age and condition of the plumbing system are also key factors—older systems may suffer from corrosion or wear and tear that increases the likelihood of clogs or leaks.
To effectively manage the drainage needs of a commercial property, it’s important to work with professional drainage experts who specialise in commercial systems. Regular maintenance, including inspections, cleaning, and timely repairs, is essential to keep the system functioning properly. By addressing issues proactively and staying on top of maintenance, commercial properties can avoid costly downtime, minimise water damage, and ensure the safety and comfort of their employees, guests, and customers.
Professional Commercial Drain Unblocking Methods
For businesses, reducing downtime and avoiding disruptions to their daily operations is crucial. When it come to tackling serious drainage issues in commercial properties, professional methods provide the fastest and most efficient solution. Plumbing issues in high-traffic environments require professional techniques that not only clear the blockages but also prevent future problems. Below are some of the most effective professional drain unblocking methods used by drainage engineers:
High-Pressure Water Jetting
High-pressure drain jetting is one the most common and effective methods used by professional drainage engineers, especially for commercial drainage systems. The technique involves using a high-powered hose that shoots water at an extremely high pressure into the pipes, dislodging blockages like grease, debris, food waste and even tree roots.
The strength of the water doesn’t just clear the obstruction; it also helps clean the inside of the pipes, removing any grease buildup that could contribute to future blockages.
This method of drain jetting is also environmentally friendly, as it only uses water. This makes it safer for both the drain system and the surrounding environment. It is a great choice for clearing stubborn blockages without the need for harsh chemicals that could damage pipes, as well as the environment.
CCTV Drain Surveys
CCTV drain surveys a vital tool for identifying and diagnosing drainage problems in commercial properties. It works by using high resolution cameras which are attached to flexible cables which drainage professionals can insert into the pipes to inspect the condition of the drainage system. This allows them to pinpoint the exact location of a blockage, tree root, cracks or signs of corrosion.
CCTV drain surveys are a great method for diagnosing issues in larger, more complex drainage systems where traditional inspection methods might fall short. The images captured during the survey are analysed to determine the cause of the problem and can be used to monitor the state of the plumbing and catch issues early before they escalate. This can be particularly helpful in commercial properties like restaurants or hotels where downtime can be costly
In addition to identifying current problems with your drainage system, CCTV surveys can also be used as a maintenance tool used to assess the overall health of your pipes, helping to prevent future blockages by identifying vulnerable areas before they cause major issues.
Mechanical Cleaning
Mechanical cleaning involves the use of specialised equipment such as drain snakes to physically remove debris and clear blockages from pipes. These cleaning tools are effective for removing stubborn blockages, which can’t always be effectively cleared using drain jetting alone.
Drain snakes are flexible cables with an auger head at the end that is fed through the drain to break up or retrieve the obstruction. For more difficult or deeper blockages, professional engineers may use rotary mechanical augers, which are more powerful and capable of reaching further.
While this method is highly effective, it may nit be suitable for older more fragile systems, as it can cause damage to the pipes, it should therefore always be done by a professional who can assess the condition of your plumbing first.
Chemical Treatments
Chemical treatments are sometimes used to address less severe blockages or maintain the overall health of drainage systems. These treatments involve the use of specially formulated chemicals that break down organic material, grease and other debris. They can be effective for clearing minor clogs caused by things like soap scum, hair or grease.
These chemicals are often poured directly into a drain, where they then dissolve or soften the materials causing the blockage. In some cases, a foaming agent may be used to coat the sides of the pipes. Chemical treatments can also be used as a maintenance tool, keeping your pipes clear of buildup and helping keep a free-flowing drainage system.
These chemicals do however have to be used with caution, especially if you have an older system or if the blockage is severe. Harsh chemicals can sometimes damage pipes or cause further blockages if used incorrectly. Its always advisable to consult with a professional drainage engineer before using chemical treatments. It’s often the case that this method is used in conjunction with others to clear more complex issues.
Why Professional Drain Unblocking Methods Are Essential
While DIY methods may work on minor blockages, commercial properties and more severe blockages often require advanced solutions. Professional drainage methods are designed to provide swift efficient results without causing additional damage, which reduces downtime, as well as future issues and costs.
The Benefits of Expert Help
When it comes to dealing with drainage issues, hiring a professional drainage company can make the world of difference, whether that be for your business, or your home. While DIY methods may seem cost effective in the shirt time, professional help ensures that the issue is tackled and resolved effectively and safely. Professional drainage engineers bring expertise, the right equipment, and specialised knowledge to fix the issue and prevent further problems.
Below are some of the key reasons why choosing a professional drainage company is the best option for both residential and commercial properties:
Accurate Diagnosis
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional is their ability to accurately diagnose the cause of the blockage, or potential damage. Drainage engineers use advances tools, such as CCTV cameras to inspect the inside of your pipes without the need for invasive digging or guesswork. These cameras can be inserted into pipes, providing real-time footage of your drainage system and any issues within it.
With this technology, professional engineers can pinpoint the exact location and nature of the issue, whether its buildup of grease, or a collapsed pipe. This precise diagnosis ensures that the correct solution is used, rather than relying on trial and error and causing further damage.
Safe and Effective Solutions
Serious blockages and issues within your drainage system most be handled safely and effectively. Drainage professionals are trained to use techniques that clear blockages without causing harm to your plumbing system, which is especially important if you have older, more fragile drains. For example, drain jetting is both high effective, but also gentle on your pipes if done correctly.
Using the wrong equipment or using equipment you are not trained to use can result in significant damage, leading to costly repairs. It can also potentially cause harm to the person unblocking the drain if used incorrectly. Professionals have the expertise to choose the right technique for the job, and are trained to do so, ensuring that the issue is cleared without causing you further problems.
Long-Term Prevention
In addition to solving immediate problems, a professional drainage engineer can help ensure long-term prevention by offering maintenance and expert advice on how to care for your drainage system. Regular inspections, particularly in a commercial setting, can be extremely beneficial, identifying early signs of blockages or wear and tear in your pipes before they turn into larger more expensive problems.
Drainage engineers can also provide advise on preventative measures, such as installing grease traps in commercial kitchens, or offering tips on what not to flush down the toilet.
Many drainage companies, such as Elite Drainage Services offer a maintenance service, which involves routine checks and cleaning of your pipes, to keep them clear and functioning properly. This proactive approach helps avoid emergencies, saves on costly repairs, and prolongs the lifespan of your drainage system.
Saving Time and Money
If you attempt to fix serious blockages yourself, it can lead to costly mistakes, especially if the issue if not accurately diagnosed, or if the wrong method is used. For example, using harsh chemicals or improper equipment can not only fail to resolve the problem, but it can also damage your plumbing system, leading to even more expensive repairs.
By hiring a professional you’re ensuring that the problem is not only fixed quickly but also reducing the risk of long-term damage.
Additionally, many drainage companies offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, so you know that you’re paying for the exact service you need. This prevents unexpected costs from arising during or after the job, offering peace of mind and a reliable solution.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can cause disruption in both your home or your business, but with the right solutions and professional help you can tackle the issue with ease. Whether it’s a minor clog or a major drainage problem, Elite Drainage Services can provide you with the correct expertise and equipment to ensure the issue is resolved effectively and efficiently.
Need expert drain unblocking services? Get in touch with Elite Drainage Services now! Call us on 0800 861 1900 or email info@elitedrainageservices.co.uk to book your appointment.
