Outside drains help get rid of rainwater and wastewater. They prevent flooding in your house and keep it dry. But drains can get clogged with leaves, dirt, roots, grease, and other debris. A blocked drain is a common and urgent issue that can quickly disrupt your home’s drainage system. Knowing how to fix clogged outside drains is important for home care. If you have a blocked outside drain, it’s essential to act fast to prevent further problems and restore proper drainage.
This guide shows you how to clear drains of clogs using easy tools and safe methods. From minor clogs to tough blockages, follow these steps to restore drain flow. For tough cases, call UR Plumber for quick service in Auckland and surrounding areas.
How to Unblock Drains at Home
Outdoor drains can clog due to leaves, soil, sticks, grease, and plastic junk. This builds up in pipes, leading to slow draining and causing bad smells. Fixing blocked drains early saves you money on repairs later.
- First, look at the external drain outside.
- Wear gloves and goggles whilst working on blocked drains.
- Clear away any visible debris, and use a rod or pressure hose for deeper blockages.
- You can also try the boiling water method, pour boiling water into the drain to soften hardened grease, dirt or soil. This method is suitable for metal pipes. Use caution on PVC pipes, as the hot water could soften or damage the material.
- After clearing, run clean water through the drain to check if it can flow freely.
Tools You Need To Unblock Drains Outside
You only need a few items and the necessary tools to unblock drains outside.
- Drain rods (Drain snake) – they reach deep into pipes to remove blockages.
- Garden Hose with jet nozzle – water pressure is effective for minor clogs.
- Protective gear – gloves, goggles, boots and mask if needed to avoid dirt.
- Bucket & bin bags – to dispose of any removed debris conveniently.
- Drain unblocker – for stubborn blockages that rods and hoses can’t clear.
- CCTV cameras for deeper issues are typically used by professionals.
Here is how to unblock drains:
- Carefully take off the drain cover with a tool.
- Remove leaves, mud, or debris at the opening and place them in bin bags.
- Insert and rotate the drain rod to loosen blockages.
- Flush the pipe with a hose to clear the blockage.
- Run clean water to check if the drain is flowing freely.
Do not use chemical cleaners outdoors. Try using baking soda and Vinegar, this one solves a range of household problems. Contact a pro if the blockage persists after 30 minutes of unblocking efforts.
Causes of Blocked Outdoor Drains
Here are common reasons drains get blocked in homes:
- During autumn, leaves clog gutters and drains.
- Solid fats and grease trap debris in pipes.
- Soil washes into drains after heavy rains.
- Tree roots seek moisture, can break pipes, and block them.
- Toys, packaging and stones get into outdoor drains. Accumulates over time.
Different drain types, such as internal drains, kitchen drains, and bathroom sinks, can have unique blockage causes and may require different solutions.
Avoid Clearing Blocked Drains
It’s cheaper to prevent than to repair. Here are ways to avoid having to unblock external drains:
- Drain guards catch leaves and dirt before they reach the drain.
- Monthly checks clean gutters and drains (especially in autumn).
- Dispose of oils and grease in containers, not down the drain.
- Ensure lawn clippings do not go into your drains.
- Put trees with roots that invade far from the drainage.
Regular inspections detect early signs of clogs or broken pipes. As a property owner, you are responsible for maintaining drains within your property boundaries and preventing blockages. You can trust UR Plumber for ongoing external or internal drain health checks.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
- Stubborn Drainage: If water still pools after cleaning, there may be a deep issue.
- Multiple Blocked Drains: This suggests a mainline blockage or plumbing fault.
- Persistent Bad Smells: Foul odours can indicate decaying waste in pipes.
- Flooding or Standing Water: This harms your foundation and attracts pests.
- Root Intrusion or Pipe Damage: These require CCTV inspection and hydro-jetting.
Avoid using caustic soda for chemical drain cleaning, as it can damage pipes and appliances, causing deterioration or warping of plumbing components.
Conclusion
Drain pipe blockages restrict water flow and can flood your property. Routine maintenance, including inspections, can help prevent issues in your drainage system. Knowing how to unblock drains outside is essential for Kiwi homeowners. DIY methods work for leaves, mud, and fat, but for more stubborn blockages, there’s no other solution but to call for experts. Rodding and jetting are effective ways experienced plumbers use for serious blockages. UR Plumber is your reliable local expert and is just a call away any day of the week.
Need Help Unblocking Drains Outside? Call UR Plumber!
Is your outdoor drain blocked? Let UR Plumber clear it fast and hassle-free. Call 027 856 7712 or visit our online store for more quality plumbing products we offer. Book your service today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I unblock an outdoor drain by myself?
Yes, for minor drain blockages caused by leaves or debris, you can try using a drain rod, hose, or drain snake. However, if the blockage is severe—it’s best to call UR Plumber to avoid causing damage or worsening the problem.
How do I know if my outdoor drain is blocked?
Common signs include slow drainage, standing water around the drain, a bad odour, or a gurgling sound coming from the pipes. These signs usually mean something is restricting water flow, so it’s a good idea to inspect your drain for visible debris or backups.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe for outdoor use?
Chemical cleaners might seem like a quick fix, but they can corrode your pipes over time. For a safer and eco-friendly approach, use manual tools like drain rods or call UR Plumber; we will clear the blockage safely without harming the environment.
How often should outdoor drains be maintained?
It’s recommended to check and clean your outdoor drains every three months, especially during rainy or autumn seasons when leaves and mud can build up quickly. Have UR Plumber carry out a professional inspection and maintenance at least once a year.
What does it cost to have a plumber unblock an outside drain?
The cost can vary depending on how severe the blockage is, the tools needed, and how easily the drain can be accessed. For a fair and transparent quote, contact us —we’ll assess your situation and provide expert help fast.