Whether you’re a homeowner in Portsmouth or simply someone who likes to be well-equipped to handle all domestic challenges, learning the skills required to clear blocked drains could save you time, money, and major inconveniences. Due to common daily activities such as washing dishes, bathing, or flushing toilets, drains can easily become blocked. So, if your drain is backing up or your sink is draining slowly, here are a few expert tips for tackling the problem.

1. Use a Plunger

Using a plunger is perhaps the most well-known method of unblocking drains. When you observe a slow drain, bring out your plunger. Ensure that the cup of the plunger fully covers the drain opening and apply forceful plunges to clear the blockage. This method works well for larger obstructions, and it’s a good first step before trying other techniques.

2. Natural Home Solutions

If a plunger is not working, there are natural solutions that you may use before you call a professional plumber. An easy one is a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Put a half cup of baking soda into the drain followed by a half cup of vinegar. Wait blocked drains portsmouth 15-20 minutes then rinse with hot water. This mixture creates a fizzing action that can often loosen minor blocks.

3. Use a Plumber’s Snake

Also known as a hand auger, a plumber’s snake can reach further into a drain than a plunger and is particularly effective for tougher blockages. You manually turn the auger’s handle to break up the block, then either pull the obstruction out or flush it down further into the system.

4. High-Pressure Drain Jet

A more modern method is using a high-pressure drain jet, also known as drain jetting. This technique uses a high-pressure water jet to remove the blockage in your drain. It’s a highly effective way to clear the most stubborn of blocked drains.

5. Regular Maintenance

Prevention is always better than cure. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your drains can prevent blockages. Pour hot water down your drains weekly, use drain guards to catch debris, and avoid pouring oil or grease down the sink.

6. Call a Professional

While it’s good to try and fix minor problems yourself, some blocked drains require professional attention. If your drain is still blocked after utilising the above methods, or if the blockage is recurring, it’s time to call a professional plumber. They can identify the underlying cause of the blockage, which can often be more serious issues like tree roots intruding into your pipes or structural problems.

Dealing with blocked drains in Portsmouth may sometimes require more than DIY effort. There are experienced, qualified local plumbers who understand the area-specific problems. Also, for severe blocks or before a renovation project, you might want to consider a CCTV drain survey. This way, you get a detailed look at what’s causing the blockage.

Remember, while these tips are useful for minor drain blockages, they won’t all work for more serious issues. Therefore, in a situation where you’re uncertain or the problem persists despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. Good luck, and here’s to clear, free-flowing drains!