Megan's Home Haven

It is a common occurrence – at some point, we’ll all have the problem of an annoying toilet which is blocked, a blocked sink and a drain that is backed up. No matter how careful we are with what is put down our home’s drains and toilets, at some point, dirt, hair and detergents build up to such an extent that water cannot flow through this accumulation.

For all your plumbing problems in Leeds call your local Leeds Plumber.

Tools commonly used for the unblocking of toilets, sinks and drains

Before attempting a DIY drain, sink or toilet unblock, it is important to make sure that you have the appropriate tools available. Nothing is worse than starting on an unpleasant yet necessary job and realising that you need to rush to the shops to buy something that you don’t have.

Plunger: One of the most important tools needed to unblock all sinks and drains. Combination plungers are the ideal choice for stubborn toilet obstructions.

Drain Cleaner: A variety of chemicals make up drain cleaners. These chemicals can get rid of dirt build ups which may be the cause of the blocked drain. If one drain cleaner is not working, don’t try to use a new brand. The assortment of chemicals may lead to toxic fumes. Before using these cleaners, ensure all instructions are thoroughly followed.

Removing blockages from toilets

If you notice that the water in the toilet bowl is not returning to the normal water level, this may be an indication that there’s an obstruction close to the toilet trap. Try filling a container like a household pail, with water and pouring it into the toilet pan as fast as possible. Do this several times. The force from the water is often what’s needed to dislodge the blockage. If this does not work, take out the plunger. Remove the water in the toilet by scooping it out into a bucket. You are now ready to start plunging. The sucking action of the plunger is usually all what’s needed to free whatever is causing the toilet blockage. Does the toilet remain blocked? You could use the power of a chemical cleaner. Read all instructions carefully and don’t expect immediate results – results may only be seen after some time. If you’re not sure about pouring toxic chemicals into your home’s pipes, caustic soda is a safe and non-toxic alternative. If the blockage remains, it could be that the blockage is deeper than expected. For this job, a WC auger is needed. The clearing rods of the auger can reach far down into the trap and when the blockage is reached, it is necessary to turn the handle of the auger to grab any obstructions, several push and pull motions on the head will free the obstruction.

If there is no joy with the auger, it’s time to surrender and phone a plumber who can be trusted.

Sinks and blockages

This task is far easier than anticipated. The first thing to check is the plug hole, which may be the reason for the blockage. The plug can be obstructed by food, hair or any other type of kitchen debris. This is done by lifting the cover of the plug cover and visibly inspecting the cover for any obvious obstructions. A wide variety of cleaners are capable of removing sink waste, while caustic soda is just as effective. With this done, and if sink remains problematic, a plunger can be used. Place the plunger directly over the plug hole. The overflow can be sealed with a damp cloth as this could assist to remove the blockage, together with plunging. If the drain remains blocked, after a series of plungers, try taking off the trap which is found under the sink. Be careful when doing this and remember to use a bucket catch any water runoff. If you find the blockage in the trap, all that’s needed is a simple pipe cleaner or a section of wire to dislodge the waste causing the blockage. Does the problem remain? If the problem is still there, the drain’s problem may be more technical that first thought.

Unblocking blocked drains

The cause of a blocked drain might be more of a problem to handle to on your own. Firstly, you’ll have to know what type of drainage system is in place and you must find the right manhole and  understand how to use drain rods to efficiently remove any collected debris. In some cases, it is easier and will save you time and money to contact a trustworthy plumber. Professional plumbers do not only have the knowledge needed to clean blocked drains but they have the correct tools to get job done right – first time round.

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