Guide to Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY Tips and Professional Advice

Blocked drains can be frustrating, and in some cases, they lead to costly repairs if left alone for too long. Water pooling in the sink, a slow-draining shower, or an overflowing toilet are all signs that something is clogging the pipes. The good news is that most blockages start small and can be fixed without professional help.

Understanding the cause, knowing the right approach, and using the correct tools can save time and effort.

Identifying the Problem

Water backing up instead of flowing down is the most obvious sign of a blockage. A sink that takes too long to drain, a gurgling noise from the pipes, or a nasty smell coming from the plughole are other indicators.

Some blockages happen gradually as grease, soap, and food waste stick to the inside of the pipes. Others occur suddenly when a foreign object, such as a baby wipe or cotton bud, gets flushed down. The first step in fixing the problem is figuring out where the blockage is located.

• Kitchen sinks often get clogged with grease and food scraps.
• Bathroom sinks and showers tend to collect hair, soap, and toothpaste residue.
• Toilets usually get blocked due to too much toilet paper or objects that shouldn’t have been flushed.
• Outdoor drains can get clogged with leaves, dirt, and even tree roots.

A quick test can help pinpoint the issue. Pour a small amount of water down the drain and observe how it behaves. If only one drain is slow, the blockage is likely in that specific pipe. If multiple fixtures are draining slowly, the issue may be deeper in the system.

Is It Really a Blocked Drain?

A slow drain isn’t always caused by a blockage. Some plumbing issues can mimic the symptoms of a clog. A broken pipe, a problem with the main sewer line, or an issue with the venting system may also cause water to drain slowly.

Common false alarms:

• A partially closed shut-off valve under the sink can reduce water flow.
• A blocked vent pipe can create air pressure issues, making water drain slower than usual.
• A collapsed or cracked pipe can lead to drainage problems that won’t be fixed with DIY solutions.

If plunging and drain cleaners don’t work, or if the problem affects multiple drains in the home, the issue might be more serious than a simple clog.

Common Causes of a Blocked Drain

Pipes can clog for many reasons, but some culprits are more common than others. Knowing what causes blockages can help prevent them in the future.

Hair and Soap Scum

Bathroom sinks and showers often get blocked due to hair mixing with soap residue. Over time, this sticky mess builds up inside the pipes, making it harder for water to flow through. Even small amounts of hair can lead to stubborn clogs when combined with oils from soaps and shampoos.

Grease and Food Waste

Pouring cooking oil down the drain may seem harmless when it’s hot, but as it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the inside of the pipes. Over time, grease builds up and traps food scraps, creating a blockage that won’t budge with just water. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and starchy foods like pasta and rice also contribute to clogs in kitchen sinks.

Foreign Objects

Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper, but other items can cause serious problems. Wipes, cotton buds, nappies, and even small toys can get stuck in the pipes, leading to major blockages. Some products claim to be “flushable,” but they don’t break down easily and often get caught in the system.

Tree Roots and Outdoor Debris

Outdoor drains face different challenges. Leaves, dirt, and garden waste can build up in stormwater drains, leading to blockages during heavy rain. Underground pipes are also vulnerable to tree roots searching for water. Even a small crack in a pipe can attract roots, which then grow inside and restrict water flow.

Mineral Buildup

In areas with hard water, minerals can accumulate inside pipes, reducing the space for water to flow. This kind of blockage develops slowly and is harder to clear with regular drain cleaners. Descaling treatments may be necessary to remove the buildup.

DIY Solutions for Clearing Blocked Drains

Minor blockages can often be cleared without calling a plumber. A few household items and a little patience can go a long way in restoring proper drainage.

Baking Soda & Vinegar: A Natural Approach

This method works well for slow drains caused by grease or soap buildup. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar creates a fizzing action that helps break down the clog.

Steps:

1. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Add a cup of vinegar and wait for the fizzing to subside (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Flush the drain with hot water to wash away the loosened debris.

This approach is safe for most pipes and works best for mild blockages. It’s less effective for hair clogs or solid objects stuck in the drain.

Hot Water: The Simple Fix

Grease and soap scum can often be washed away with hot water. Boiling water helps dissolve fats and move soft blockages through the pipes.

Steps:

1. Boil a kettle of water.
2. Slowly pour the water down the drain in stages, allowing it to work through the blockage.
3. Repeat if necessary.

This method is not suitable for PVC pipes, as extreme heat can cause damage. Lukewarm or moderately hot water is a safer option for plastic plumbing.

Using a Plunger: The Go-To Method

A plunger is one of the most effective tools for clearing simple blockages. The suction helps dislodge debris and push it through the pipes.

Steps:

1. Fill the sink or toilet with enough water to cover the rubber part of the plunger.
2. Place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly.
3. Pull up and push down repeatedly to create suction.
4. After a few tries, check if the water drains properly.

For sinks, covering the overflow hole with a wet cloth can improve suction. If water starts to drain more freely, the clog will likely be broken up.

Chemical Solutions: Effective but Risky

Chemical drain cleaners can be useful for stubborn blockages, but they come with risks. These products contain harsh chemicals that break down grease, hair, and other debris.

Considerations:

• They can damage older pipes, especially if used frequently.
• The fumes can be harmful, so proper ventilation is necessary.
• If mixed with other chemicals, dangerous reactions can occur.

When using a chemical cleaner, always follow the instructions on the bottle and wear protective gloves. If the blockage doesn’t clear after one attempt, avoid pouring in more chemicals, as this can make the problem worse.

When to Call an Emergency Plumber

DIY solutions can handle minor clogs, but some blockages require professional help. Ignoring a serious plumbing issue can lead to expensive repairs, water damage, and health risks. Knowing when to stop attempting fixes and call an expert can prevent bigger problems.

Graham & Sons Plumbing has years of experience handling all types of drainage issues, from stubborn clogs to major sewer line problems. Our team is equipped with the right tools to diagnose and resolve even the most complex plumbing issues quickly and efficiently.

Signs That a Plumber Is Needed

• Water backing up in multiple drains: If sinks, bathtubs, and toilets are all draining slowly or overflowing, the problem is likely deep within the main sewer line. This is not something that can be fixed with a plunger or home remedies. A professional inspection is necessary to locate and remove the blockage.
• Gurgling sounds from pipes: Strange noises coming from drains or toilets can mean there’s a blockage forming in the plumbing system. Air trapped in the pipes may be struggling to escape, which could be a sign of a serious issue. Graham & Sons Plumbing can assess the problem and use specialised equipment to clear blockages before they worsen.
• Foul smells that won’t go away: A persistent sewer-like odour in the home is a sign that something is stuck in the pipes or that waste isn’t flowing out properly. This can lead to bacterial growth, making the problem worse. If bad smells persist, a plumber should investigate the drainage system to prevent health risks.
• Water pooling around outdoor drains: If puddles form around garden drains or the yard smells like sewage, tree roots or debris may be clogging the underground pipes. Left unchecked, this can lead to burst pipes and costly repairs. Graham & Sons Plumbing can conduct a thorough inspection, using advanced tools such as drain cameras to pinpoint blockages and provide the best solution.
• Toilet won’t flush, or water level keeps rising: A toilet that fills up instead of flushing down could mean a serious blockage is preventing waste from leaving. If plunging doesn’t work, forcing the issue can lead to an overflow. Calling a plumber before the problem worsens can save time and prevent water damage.
• Unsuccessful DIY attempts: If baking soda, hot water, plunging, and drain cleaners don’t work, the clog may be too deep or too solid. Pouring more chemicals down the drain or applying excessive force can damage the pipes, making things worse. A professional plumber, like us, can handle even the toughest blockages with precision and care.

We, at Graham & Sons Plumbing, have the expertise to clear stubborn blockages, remove tree roots, and repair broken pipes. For cases involving the main sewer line, professional intervention is the safest and most effective way to restore proper drainage. Their team is available for emergency plumbing services, ensuring problems are resolved before they escalate.

Prevention Over Cure

A blocked drain can be a hassle, but most clogs can be prevented with a few simple habits. Keeping drains clear and knowing what should never go down the pipes can save time, effort, and money.

Kitchen Sinks: Keep Grease and Food Scraps Out

• Wipe grease off the pans before washing. Pouring oil or fat down the drain can cause thick buildup inside the pipes. Instead, let it cool and throw it in the bin.
• Use a sink strainer. Small food scraps can slip through and collect in the pipes, leading to blockages. A strainer catches bits of food before they reach the drain.
• Avoid washing coffee grounds down the sink. They clump together in water and stick to grease, forming stubborn clogs.

Bathroom Drains: Stop Hair and Soap Scum Buildup

• Brush hair before showering. Loose strands won’t end up in the drain if they’re removed beforehand.
• Use a drain cover. These catch hair and soap scum before they wash down the drain, making them easy to clean out.
• Flush with hot water once a week. A kettle of hot water can help break down soap residue and keep the pipes clear.

Toilets: Flush Only What’s Meant to Go Down

• Stick to toilet paper only. Wipes, paper towels, and hygiene products don’t break down properly and can cause serious clogs.
• Teach kids not to flush toys or objects. Small items can get stuck in the pipes, leading to expensive repairs.
• Use less toilet paper. Too much at once can cause blockages, especially in older plumbing systems.

Outdoor Drains: Prevent Leaves and Roots from Blocking Pipes

• Clear gutters and drains regularly. Leaves and dirt can pile up, leading to blockages when it rains.
• Trim tree roots near plumbing lines. Roots grow toward water sources and can invade underground pipes, causing serious damage.
• Check for slow drainage after heavy rain. Water pooling in the yard may indicate a partially blocked outdoor drain.

Routine Maintenance: A Few Small Steps Go a Long Way

• Flush drains with hot water every few weeks. This helps clear out minor buildups before they become problems.
• Pour a cup of baking soda and vinegar down the drain monthly. This natural method helps break down grease and soap residue.
• Schedule a professional drain inspection if drainage issues keep happening. A plumber can check for deeper problems before they get worse.

Final Thoughts

A blocked drain is more than just an inconvenience—it can lead to bigger plumbing problems if ignored. Recognising the warning signs, using the right DIY methods, and knowing when to call a professional can prevent unnecessary stress and expenses.

Most clogs can be avoided by being mindful of what goes down the drain. Simple habits like keeping food scraps out of the sink, using drain covers in the bathroom, and regularly flushing drains with hot water can keep pipes running smoothly.

When home remedies fail, or multiple drains are affected, it’s time to bring in a plumber. Fixing a small issue early is always better than dealing with a major plumbing disaster later.