A blocked drain can be a real nuisance, causing unpleasant odours and slow drainage. While it might seem daunting, unblocking a drain can be a straightforward task if you have the right tools and guidance. Our guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you clear the blockage and restore the free flow of water in your drain.
Essential Tools & Equipment
Step 1: Inspect The Blockage
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Locate the drain and lift the cover to see if you can inspect the blockage.
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Determine if you can identify the cause and if it's within easy reach.
Step 2: Safety First
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Before you begin, ensure you're wearing the necessary protective clothing to safeguard against harmful bacteria that may have accumulated in the blockage.
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Make sure to protect your mouth, nose and eyes and put on waterproof clothing.
Step 3: Clear Visible Blockages
- With a bucket nearby, reach into the trap drain and manually clear as much of the blockage as you can.
Step 4: Test The Drain
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Direct the hose into the drain and let the water run for a few minutes. If the water doesn't rise, you've successfully cleared the blockage. If it does, proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Deep Cleaning
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Locate the nearest manhole cover to your trap drain and remove it.
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Attach the double worm screw or rubber plunger to your drain rod.
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Feed the rod into the drain clockwise, moving it around to break up the debris.
Step 6: Final Test
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Once you've worked on the blockage, run the hose into the trap drain again.
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If the water doesn't rise, you've successfully cleared the blockage in your drain.
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Replace the manhole cover and clean up.
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If the blockage hasn’t cleared, you may need to contact a professional who can use cameras and high-tech equipment to see what the problem is.