How To Clear A Blocked Drain: Tips & Ideas

Having a blocked drain is an issue that many people will face at some point. It can be a headache and it becomes very stressful when you don’t know which steps to take in order to solve the problem. Fortunately, there are various solutions for unblocking drains. Read on for advice on how to assess the severity of the blockage and how to clear a blocked drain as efficiently as possible.

Assess The Blockage

Identify the location of the blockage: The first step in assessing a blocked drain is to determine where the blockage is located. If the blockage is in a sink, you will likely notice water backing up or draining slowly. If the blockage is in a toilet, you may notice that the water level in the bowl is unusually high or that the toilet is not flushing properly.
Determine the severity of the blockage: Once you have identified the location of the blockage, you can assess the severity of the problem. A minor blockage may be indicated by slow-draining water, while a more severe blockage may cause water to back up completely or create a strong odour.
Determine the cause of the blockage: The next step in assessing a blocked drain is to determine the cause of the blockage. Common causes of drain blockages include debris such as hair, food, or soap scum; tree roots growing into the drain; or a foreign object that has been accidentally dropped into the drain.

How To Clear The Blockage

There are several ways to clear a blocked drain, depending on the severity of the blockage and the tools and materials you have on hand. If it’s a simple issue you could:

Use a plunger: A plunger is a simple and effective tool for clearing minor blockages in sinks, toilets and other plumbing fixtures. Simply place the plunger over the drain and push down to create suction and force the blockage out of the drain.
Use a drain snake: A drain snake, also known as an auger, is a long, flexible wire with a spiral tip that can be inserted into the drain to loosen and remove blockages.
Use a chemical drain cleaner: Chemical drain cleaners are available at most hardware stores and can be effective at clearing minor blockages. Be sure to use them according to the instructions on the package and wear protective gloves, as they can be harsh on skin and can produce harmful fumes.
Remove the blockage manually: If you can see the blockage and it is small enough to be removed by hand, you can try removing it yourself. Use gloves and be cautious when doing this to avoid injury.

If none of these methods work or if the blockage is severe, you may need to call a professional plumber to clear the drain.

Finding A Professional

If you’ve tried all the methods above for clearing blocked drains and had no luck, it may be time to call in reinforcements! Contacting a professional plumber is an often-necessary measure when extreme blockages have occurred. They can easily get your plumbing back in working order and leave you with peace of mind knowing your drain is up to snuff. Don’t worry– professional service doesn’t necessarily mean expensive, bulky repairs–experts can help you to find the best way to fix your pipes that fits within your budget and needs!

At Atkin Plumbing & Gasfitting, we offer 24/7 support to Gladstone and surrounds, so that your drains can be unblocked as soon as possible. We are experienced and reliable and never cut corners! Reach out to us via our contact form or call us today on 0403 919 430 for more information on our services.