A blocked outside drain can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. However, there are a number of things you can do to clear the blockage and get your drain flowing again.
Here are some tips on what to do when your outside drain is blocked:
- Identify the cause of the blockage. The first step is to try to identify the cause of the blockage. Is it a build-up of leaves and debris? Has something fallen down the drain, such as a toy or a ball? Once you know the cause of the blockage, you can choose the best way to clear it.
- Try to clear the blockage with a plunger. A plunger is a simple but effective tool for clearing blocked drains. To use a plunger, place the plunger over the drain opening and make sure that there is a good seal. Then, push and pull the plunger vigorously to create a suction force. This should help to dislodge the blockage and clear the drain.
- Use a drain snake. If a plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to clear blockages. To use a drain snake, insert the end of the snake into the drain opening and crank the handle to feed the snake into the pipe. Once the snake has reached the blockage, wiggle it around to dislodge the blockage.
- Use a drain cleaning product. If a plunger and a drain snake don’t work, you can try using a drain cleaning product. Drain cleaning products contain chemicals that can dissolve grease, hair, and other debris that may be causing the blockage. To use a drain cleaning product, follow the instructions on the label.
- Call a plumber. If you’ve tried all of the above and the blockage is still there, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to clear any blockage, no matter how stubborn.
Here are some additional tips for preventing outside drains from becoming blocked:
- Keep the drain area clean and free of debris. Sweep up any leaves or other debris that may fall into the drain.
- Install a drain grate. A drain grate will help to prevent leaves and other debris from falling into the drain.
- Avoid pouring grease, oil, and fat down the drain. Grease, oil, and fat can solidify and cause blockages.
- Have your drains professionally cleaned on a regular basis. A professional plumber can clean your drains and remove any build-up of grease, hair, and other debris.
By following these tips, you can keep your outside drains flowing freely and avoid the inconvenience of a blocked drain.
Here are some additional tips for clearing specific types of blockages:
- Leaves and debris: If the blockage is caused by leaves and debris, you can try using a garden hose to flush out the drain. You can also try using a leaf blower to blow out the debris.
- Roots: If the blockage is caused by roots, you may need to use a chemical root killer. However, it is important to note that chemical root killers can be harmful to the environment, so it is important to use them with caution.
- Grease and fat: If the blockage is caused by grease and fat, you can try using a hot water flush. To do this, pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. You can also try using a drain cleaning product that is specifically designed to dissolve grease and fat.
- Hard objects: If the blockage is caused by a hard object, such as a toy or a ball, you may need to use a drain snake to remove the object.
If you are unable to clear the blockage yourself, you should call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to clear any blockage, no matter how stubborn.