Blocked Drains In Bournemouth

Large debris such as vegetable peelings, tea bags, or plastic wrap, can often be seen blocking the drain at the entrance. When this is the case, you can try to remove the debris using your hands, or a hook made from a bent wire coat hanger. Providing there is no debris further down the pipework, you can run the taps and check the water flow has been restored. Flushing hot water through the system will help to further clear the pipes and remove any small obstruction that could lead to a drain blockage in the future. After you are satisfied the water is running smoothly, it’s worthwhile getting a drain filter that will catch large debris and prevent it from being flushed down the sink.

Boiling water is effective in clearing away soap scum, mud, and, if used alongside detergent, a small amount of grease or oil, and it is good practice to make a habit of flushing your drainage system with boiling water once a month to help prevent blockages from occurring. But you do need to take care and understand your drainage pipework as not all materials will withstand boiling water being used. If your pipework is made of PVC, the heat can cause the joints to expand and loosen which means that not only do you need drains clearance, but your loosened pipework will leak and need repair. Also, porcelain sink bowls may crack with extreme heat so you must take care to pour the water directly into the drain by using a jug or funnel to help you target the water correctly.

If we were to recommend a single DIY tool for your home, then the sink plunger would be it. A simple low-tech drain unblocker works by creating a vacuum that helps dislodge the drain blockage through upward pressure. The effectiveness of the plunger depends on you creating a tight seal around the edges of the suction pad and smearing a little petroleum jelly around the edge of the cup will give a better seal. It’s important to cover the drain completely with the suction cup and use a fast pumping action for 30 seconds before checking if the blockage has cleared. You may need to repeat the action a couple of more times to be sure you have removed all the debris. Once you are satisfying the drain blockage has gone, flush the system with water to check it flows properly.

This is an old-fashioned, but very effective, remedy to clear blocked drains. You can find all the ingredients in your kitchen cupboard, so it’s a solution readily available at any time. Mixing together baking soda with an acid such as vinegar creates a chemical reaction that will dislodge grime, grease, and other small debris, allowing you to flush them away. Using this method is simple: simply pour baking soda directly into the drain. Wait for a little while to allow it to absorb the grime. Then pour into the drain an equal amount of vinegar. The mixture will begin to fizz and after about 20 minutes, you can pour hot water into the drain to flush away the solution and any debris with it. If the blockage is stubborn, you can repeat the process.