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Dealing with a clogged drain can be frustrating, but with some practical drain unblocking tips, you can often resolve the issue yourself.
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A blocked drain gully can lead to various issues, including unpleasant odours, flooding, and potential damage to your property. Preventing such blockages is key to maintaining a healthy drainage system. Here are some practical tips to help you avoid a blocked drain gully:
Regular Maintenance
Perform regular inspections of your drain gully to check for any signs of blockages. Clear away leaves, dirt, and other debris that may accumulate around the gully. This can be done using a gloved hand or a small shovel. Regularly removing debris prevents it from entering the gully and causing a blockage.
Proper Disposal of Waste
Be mindful of what you dispose of down your drains. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease (FOG) down the sink, as they can solidify and cause blockages. Instead, collect FOG in a container and dispose of it in your household rubbish. Similarly, ensure that food scraps are thrown away in the bin rather than washed down the sink.
Use Drain Covers
Install drain covers or guards over your gullies to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the drain. These covers are instrumental during autumn when falling leaves can easily cause blockages. Clean the covers regularly to ensure they remain effective.
Regular Cleaning
Use a drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean your drains periodically. This helps to break down any potential build-up of debris inside the gully. Pouring boiling water down the drain can also help to dissolve grease and other residues.
Professional Inspection
Consider having your drains professionally inspected and cleaned every few years. A professional plumber can use specialised equipment to thoroughly clean your drain gully and identify any potential issues before they become significant problems.
Landscaping Considerations
Ensure plants and trees are not planted too close to your drainage system. Roots can infiltrate and damage the pipes, leading to blockages. If you already have trees or plants near your drainage system, consider consulting a professional to assess the risk and possibly reroute the roots away from the drains.
By following these preventative measures, you can help ensure that your drain gully remains clear and functional, reducing the risk of blockages and the associated problems.
If preventative measures fail, and you do find yourself in need of a drain unblocking, there are methods that you can try yourself –
- Plunger: A plunger is a handy tool for unblocking drains. Ensure there is enough water in the sink or tub to cover the plunger’s cup, then plunge vigorously to create suction and dislodge the clog.
- Plumbing Snake: For more difficult drain unblocking, a plumbing snake (or auger) can reach deeper into the pipes. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to break up or retrieve the clog.
- Clean the P-trap: The P-trap under sinks can collect debris over time. Place a bucket underneath, unscrew the trap, and clean out any buildup before reassembling.
- Enzyme Cleaners: Enzyme-based drain unblocking is an eco-friendly option. They use natural enzymes to break down organic material without damaging your pipes.
Regular maintenance, such as avoiding pouring grease down the drain and using a drain strainer, can prevent future clogs. If these methods fail, it may be time to call a professional plumber to go in with a more extreme drain unblocking method.
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LABC Drain Interceptor Traps
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DIY Fix For a Blocked Drain or Gully Outside
