Before giving us a call, here are some steps to try and unblock a drain. While there are ways to maintain and prevent blocked drains, it’s not always possible to keep them clear.
Pour boiling water down your drain
Boiling water running through the drain can help to melt some of the build-up.
- Pour it slowly in a few stages to give it time to work between each pour.
- Mix in 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup bi-carb soda, and 1 cup vinegar for a natural solution that adds some natural enzymes to help break down the blockage.
This will only work on smaller blockages and is best used as a preventative measure.
Try a trusty plunger
It seems like an old-fashioned choice, but for smaller blockages, a plunger might be all you need. Forcing water through the pipe is sometimes enough to clear the clog and allow water to get through. You should still consider using a drain cleaner at this stage to make sure the blockage is completely removed.
Use store-bought chemical substances
Most hardware stores will stock a variety of chemical drain cleaners that can dissolve hair, soap scum and organic waste. These products can be highly dangerous and bad for our environment, so make sure you read all the directions carefully before using them. You can get serious chemical burns from these products so please be careful, use the proper safety equipment and store safely away from children’s reach!
Clean the U-Bend
And finally, for the advanced DIY-er. Grease and oil often clog the pipes before they get too far into your system, therefore clearing the U-shaped pipe under your sink might do the trick.
- Put a bucket underneath the u-bend trap to collect any spillages, then loosen the slip nuts at both ends of the pipe.
- Once removed, empty the contents into your bucket and give the inside a good scrub with a brush.
- After you’ve given the pipe a rinse, reattach it, making sure the nuts are tightened to prevent leaks.
If your blocked drain is something more serious, the professionals from Seaview Plumbing have the tools and experience needed to fix the problem efficiently and effectively. We offer prompt and reliable service, to make sure your pipes are clean and clear again.
Want to do some maintenance yourself so it doesn’t happen again? Click here for some simple tips on how to make sure you don’t get a blocked drain.
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Blocked drains FAQ's
Slow drains, strange smells, or gurgling noises? You might have a blocked drain. Blockages can cause major issues if left untreated, but the good news is we can clear them quickly. Here’s everything you need to know about blocked drains and how we can help.
What are the common causes of blocked drains?
Blocked drains don’t just happen—they build up over time. Hair, grease, soap scum, tree roots, and even the odd toy (yes, it happens!) can all be culprits. If your drain is slow or smells funky, it might be time to call in the experts.
How do I know if my drain is blocked?
If water is draining slowly, your sink is making weird gurgling noises, or there’s an unpleasant smell wafting up, you’ve probably got a blockage. The good news? We can sort it out before it gets worse!
Can I clear a blocked drain myself, or do I need a plumber?
You can try a plunger for minor blockages, but avoid harsh chemicals—they can do more harm than good. For stubborn clogs, it’s best to call a local plumber. Our team uses professional tools (like hydro-jetting and drain cameras) to get your pipes flowing again.
What methods do plumbers use to unblock drains?
At Seaview Plumbing, we use special equipment to tackle blocked drains. This includes:
- Drain cameras to find the problem.
- Hydro-jetting to blast away stubborn debris.
- Drain snakes to clear solid blockages.
How can I prevent blocked drains in the future?
A few simple habits can save you from future headaches:
- Avoid pouring grease or coffee grounds down the sink.
- Use drain covers to catch hair and food scraps.
- Get your drains professionally cleaned every so often (we can help with that!).