Step By Step Guide On How To Clear Outside Drain Pipe
A blocked drain outside can be a real hassle, especially when it leads to unpleasant odors, slow drainage, or even flooding. But don’t worry—unblocking an outside drain isn’t as hard as it sounds. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to unblock an outside drain yourself, including when to call in the experts for professional help if needed. So let’s dive into the steps for unblocking an outside kitchen drain, clearing a clogged drain outside, and getting your drainage system flowing smoothly again.
Why Is My Outside Drain Blocked?
Understanding what’s causing your blocked outside drain pipe is the first step. Common culprits for a clogged drain outside include:
Leaves and Garden Debris: Fallen leaves, twigs, and other outdoor debris can easily end up in the drain, especially after windy or rainy weather. Over time, this can cause your outside drain to get blocked.
Mud and Silt: Rain can wash soil, silt and other small particles into the drain, where they accumulate and form a blockage.
Tree Roots: Roots from nearby trees can sometimes grow into pipes, causing the drain to clog and making it difficult to clear outside drain pipes effectively without professional help.
These common blockages may seem minor, but they can quickly lead to an outside drain blocked to the point where it no longer drains water effectively.
How to Unblock an Outside Drain:
If your outside drain is blocked, you can often clear it yourself with some basic tools and patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to unblock a drain outside.
01
Gather Your Tools
01
Gather Your Tools
Gather Your Tools
outside drain unblocker
To start, gather the following tools for unblocking an outside drain:
- Heavy-duty gloves: Protect your hands from sharp debris and grime.
- Bucket or bin bag: To collect the debris you remove from the drain.
- Drain rods: Available at most hardware stores, these flexible rods are ideal for reaching and dislodging blockages in drain pipes.
- Screwdriver: Useful for prying open the drain cover.
- Hosepipe: Handy for flushing water down the drain after clearing the blockage.
02
Remove the Drain Cover
02
Remove the Drain Cover
Remove the Drain Cover
blocked drain outside
Locate your blocked outside drain and carefully remove the cover with a screwdriver or pry bar. Be careful around the edges, as there might be dirt or other debris lodged in place. Once the cover is off, you should be able to inspect the inside of the drain and see any visible signs of blockage.
03
Clear Debris from the Surface
03
Clear Debris from the Surface
Clear Debris from the Surface
blocked outside drain pipe
Inspect the inside of the blocked outside drain pipe. If you can see debris like leaves, mud, or small stones, use your gloved hands to scoop it out and place it in your bucket or bin bag. This step alone can sometimes be enough to unblock outside kitchen drains.
04
Use Drain Rods for Deeper Blockages
04
Use Drain Rods for Deeper Blockages
Use Drain Rods for Deeper Blockages
clogged drain outside
If the blockage is too deep to reach by hand, it’s time to bring out the drain rods. Here’s how to use them effectively for unblocking an outside kitchen drain or other blocked outside drains:
- Insert the drain rod into the drain pipe carefully, pushing it toward the blockage.
- Rotate the rod clockwise to help it break up any debris.
- Continue pushing and twisting the rod until you feel the blockage give way.
Take your time with this step, as a patient approach is often the most effective way to clear a stubborn outside drain blockage.
05
Flush with Water
05
Flush with Water
Flush with Water
outside drain blocked
Once you’ve broken up the blockage, it’s important to rinse out the drain to ensure all the debris has been cleared. Use a hosepipe to run water through the drain and check that it flows smoothly. Flushing the drain thoroughly helps remove any remaining debris, giving you peace of mind that the clogged drain outside has been fully cleared.
What to Do If You Can’t Unblock the Outside Drain?
Sometimes, even after you’ve done your best, the drain remains blocked. Here are a few reasons why you might need professional help:
- Tree Roots in Pipes: If tree roots are the cause, a professional will have specialised equipment to remove the roots and restore water flow.
- Deeper Blockages: Some blockages are too far down for a drain rod to reach. Professionals use high-pressure jetting and other advanced tools to tackle these stubborn clogs.
- Damaged Pipes: In some cases, a blocked drain outside may be due to structural damage. A drain specialist can perform a CCTV inspection to check for cracks or collapses that may need repair.
Professional Help for a Blocked Outside Drain
Our team at Plumbers Immediately has the expertise and tools needed to unblock outside drains quickly and effectively. From high-pressure water jetting to CCTV drain surveys, we can tackle even the most difficult blockages in outdoor drainage systems.
If you’re struggling with a blocked outside drain pipe or unblocking an outside kitchen drain that’s overflowing, don’t hesitate to reach out. We provide fast, friendly, and reliable service, ensuring your drains are back in top shape in no time.
Tips for Preventing Future Blockages
A little maintenance can go a long way in preventing blocked outside drains. Here’s how to keep your drains clear:
- Clear Away Leaves and Debris Regularly: After heavy rain or windy days, clear any visible debris around your outside drains to prevent buildup.
- Install a Drain Cover or Guard: This prevents larger debris from entering the drain and causing blockages.
- Monitor Nearby Trees: If you have large trees close to your drain, keep an eye on them. Regular trimming and root management can prevent issues with roots growing into your drain pipes.
By following these simple steps, you can reduce the likelihood of having a clogged drain outside and enjoy worry-free drainage.
Need Help with a Blocked Outside Drain?
Blocked outside drains can be frustrating, especially if they lead to overflow and water damage. If you’re dealing with an outside kitchen drain overflowing or can’t figure out how to unblock drains outside, give us a call. We’re here to help with everything from routine maintenance to tough blockages and will get your drains back in working order quickly.
Unblocking Your Outside Kitchen Drain
If you’re dealing with a blocked outside kitchen drain, it’s essential to address the issue quickly before it causes further damage. Simple solutions like using a plunger or drain rod may help clear minor clogs, while more stubborn blockages could require specialised tools or drain-cleaning products. When unblocking outdoor drain systems, it’s important to keep in mind that debris, grease, or food waste are often the culprits behind these issues.
If you’re unsure of how to clear outside drain pipe, or if how to unblock a drain outside doesn’t work using common methods, it may be time to bring in a professional plumber. For persistent blocked outside drain pipe issues, tools like a drain snake or high-pressure water jetting might be required.
Remember, proper maintenance and addressing blockages early on can prevent future plumbing problems. If you’re still unsure of how to tackle a blocked outside drain or need help with unclogging outdoor drains, it’s always best to consult an expert.
