Customer Services
Reporting Repairs to your Property
: Handy Hints
: Advice
CLEARING A BLOCKAGE
- Blockages are usually caused by the build-up of waste in the trap: fat, tea leaves, hair etc. It is a good idea to clear waste pipes and traps at least once a month, preferably with a suitable product available from DIY stores.
- The trap is under the fitting (bath, basin or sink). It always holds some water in it which stops smells coming up the drain. However, waste can build up and become stuck in it.
- If more than one fitting (bath, basin etc) is blocked, the blockage may be in the soil stack or main drain. This will need to be cleared by a plumber. If this is the case, contact us.
What to Do
You need:
Bowl
Jug or Cup
Rag or Dishcloth
Plunger
Rubber Gloves
To unblock a bath, basin or sink:
Bale out most of the water
Hold the rag tightly over the overflow opening
Place the plunger over the plug hole and pump up and down rapidly
After clearing the blockage unscrew the trap and clean it out
Thoroughly wash your hands and all equipment after you have finished
To unblock a toilet:
If the pan is already full, remove some of the water into a bucket using some form of scoop, eg a jug or bowl
Push the brush or plunger to the bottom of the pan
Pump it up and down vigorously about 10 times. This creates a vacuum and pressure which may shift the blockage
Flush the toilet to see whether the blockage has gone
You may need to repeat this process several times before the toilet flushes normally. If there is no improvement after a couple of attempts you should contact us
Thoroughly wash your hands and all equipment after you have finished
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