Blocked drains are a common yet frustrating issue for homes and businesses alike. When your drains are blocked, it disrupts daily activities and can lead to unpleasant odours, slow draining, or even water damage. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to get your drains unblocked, from natural remedies to professional services.
In this guide, we will explore practical ways to unblock drains, discuss common causes of blockages, and highlight how Drain Blasters provides innovative and environmentally-friendly solutions for all your drainage needs.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Signs of a Blocked Drain
Before getting into how to get your drains unblocked, it’s important to identify the signs that a blockage is forming. Recognising these early indicators can help you address the issue before it worsens.
Foul Smells and Gurgling Sounds
One of the first signs of a blocked drain is a foul smell. As food debris, grease, and other waste materials get stuck in your pipes, bacteria build up, creating a bad odour. Gurgling sounds from your drains are another key sign, as this indicates trapped air due to a blockage.
Slow Drainage and Water Overflow
A clear sign that you need your drains unblocked is when water pools in your sinks, showers, or toilets and drains slowly. In severe cases, the water may not drain at all and instead starts to overflow, especially in outdoor drains after heavy rain.
Rising Water Levels in Toilets
A blocked drain can cause an abnormal rise in your toilet’s water level. This is often due to a blockage in the main sewer line, which prevents water from flowing freely, and signals an urgent need to have your drains unblocked.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
There are many reasons why you may need to get your drains unblocked. Knowing these common causes can help you prevent blockages from occurring in the future.
Grease and Fat Build-Up
Grease and fat are leading causes of blocked drains in kitchens. When poured down the sink, these substances cool and solidify, sticking to the walls of your pipes. Over time, this accumulation prevents water from passing through, making it necessary to unblock the drain.
Hair and Soap Scum in Bathrooms
In bathrooms, hair and soap residue are frequent culprits. Hair tends to gather in drains, particularly in showers and sinks, where it tangles with soap scum, creating stubborn blockages. Drain Blasters offers professional drain cleaning services that effectively deal with such issues, ensuring your drains remain clear.
Tree Roots and Natural Debris
In outdoor drainage systems, tree roots can cause significant damage by infiltrating pipes in search of water. Leaves, dirt, and other debris also accumulate in outdoor drains, especially during rainy seasons, which can quickly lead to blockages. Keeping outdoor areas clean and investing in regular maintenance is key to keeping these drains unblocked.
DIY Methods to Get Your Drains Unblocked
While professional services are often the most effective way to unblock drains, some home remedies can help with minor blockages. These methods use common household items and can be an easy first step in clearing a blockage.
Boiling Water
For minor blockages caused by grease or soap, boiling water can be an effective solution. The heat helps to melt the substances blocking the drain, allowing water to flow freely. Boiling water is a simple yet effective remedy that can work wonders when you need to get your drains unblocked quickly.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A tried-and-true natural method involves using baking soda and vinegar. When these ingredients combine, they create a fizzing reaction that helps break down the blockage. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for an hour before flushing with boiling water.
Using a Plunger
A plunger is one of the simplest tools for getting drains unblocked. By creating a vacuum, the plunger helps to dislodge the blockage and restore water flow. This method is most effective for sinks and toilets where blockages are near the surface.
Professional Solutions for Stubborn Blockages
While DIY methods are effective for minor clogs, professional help is often required for more serious blockages. Drain Blasters offers a range of services to ensure your drains are unblocked quickly and efficiently.
High-Pressure Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting is a powerful method that uses high-pressure water to blast away stubborn debris in your pipes. This method is ideal for commercial kitchens where grease build-up is common, or for outdoor drains clogged with roots or natural debris. Hydro jetting is an environmentally-friendly option that clears even the most difficult blockages without harsh chemicals.
Drain Snaking
For blockages caused by hair, grease, or small objects, drain snaking is a highly effective solution. A drain snake is a flexible metal cable inserted into the drain to remove clogs deep within the pipes. At Drain Blasters, our expert technicians are trained to use professional-grade drain snakes to safely and effectively clear your pipes, leaving your drains unblocked.
CCTV Drain Inspection
If your drains are blocked repeatedly or you suspect there may be damage to your drainage system, a CCTV drain inspection can help identify the underlying problem. Drain Blasters uses state-of-the-art cameras to inspect your pipes, locate blockages, and determine the best course of action.
Organic and Biological Cleaners
For clients looking for eco-friendly options, Drain Blasters provides certified organic cleaners that are safe for the environment. These cleaners use natural enzymes to break down organic matter, making them ideal for kitchens, restaurants, and homes where chemical cleaners are not preferred. This method not only unblocks drains but also ensures your drainage system remains clean and free from harmful substances.
Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Your Drains Clear
The best way to avoid needing to get your drains unblocked is through regular maintenance. Drain Blasters offers comprehensive cleaning and maintenance services, including fat trap cleaning and the supply of organic cleaning products. By investing in regular drain cleaning, you can prevent blockages before they become a major issue.
Regular Drain Cleaning
For commercial kitchens, restaurants, and industrial facilities, regular drain cleaning is essential to keep operations running smoothly. Our professional team can schedule routine maintenance, ensuring that your drains are unblocked and your business is never disrupted by drainage issues.
Canopy Filter Cleaning
In addition to drain cleaning, Drain Blasters also offers canopy filter cleaning for commercial kitchens. A clean canopy filter ensures that your kitchen remains safe and compliant with health regulations, while also preventing grease from entering your drainage system and causing blockages.
Call Drain Blasters for Expert Drain Unblocking Services
Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain at home or a major blockage in a commercial kitchen, Drain Blasters has the expertise and environmentally-friendly solutions to get your drains unblocked quickly and safely. From hydro jetting to organic cleaning products, we offer a range of services to meet your needs.
If you’re facing drainage problems, contact us today for professional assistance and ensure your drains remain clear and free-flowing.
