| Guide on Dealing with a Blocked Sink, Basin or Bath |
The water from the waste outlet in sinks and baths etc should drain reasonably quickly and freely. If the flow becomes slow, it indicates a blockage beginning to build somewhere in the pipe-work or drain.
Since these waste pipes have to deal with everything from leftover bits of food to strands of hair, it is hardly surprising that they block up from time to time.
You can try using a drain cleaning product to prevent the build up of such blockages. Be sure to follow the instructions and safety precautions carefully as they can be caustic.
A plunger is a simple device, but very effective if used correctly. There are several types available including pump action ones. Before getting started first smear some petroleum jelly around the base of the plunger - this helps seal it against the bottom of the sink, basin or bath. Place the plunger over the outlet and run the water so that there is enough in the sink, basin or bath to cover the base of the plunger. Now, holding a wet cloth over the overflow, pump the plunger several times. Remove it and see if it's worked. Repeat as necessary.
Although the last method can be very effective, the action can just push the blockage along the pipe a little, but may not release it.
Frequently the blockage will be in the trap beneath the sink. The quickest way to remove it is to clean out the trap. Place a pot or bowl under the waste trap to catch the water.
Remember not to switch on the taps again until it's replaced. Unscrew the two ends of the trap and ease it out. Clear any debris from it. If this is where the blockage was, you will clearly see it. Reassemble the trap and check the flow of waste water again.
If the blockage has not been removed, it will be necessary to use a wire to rod the pipe-work. This is usually done from an access point or cap, which will have been fitted at any sharp junctions in the waste pipe if it was installed by the plumber. Failing this, you can remove the trap again and access the pipe run from here. Have a bucket standing by and protect the area beneath.
A blocked pipe may be holding a fair bit of dirty water.
If the blockage is near, it is often possible to remove it using a straightened wire coat hanger with a small hook shaped at the end.
More awkward to reach blockages will require the use of a narrow gauge drain rod. This is usually a long length of wire on a reel with a hook set on the end. It is pushed into the pipe until it reaches the obstruction and then twisted to release it.
Once cleared, replace the trap or access cover and test the flow of waste water.
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We hope you find this information both helpful and educational with regard to blocked drains.
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