Blockages are mainly caused by hair being washed down plugholes
in bathroom appliances. Larger debris blocks the kitchen
sink and often the blockage is due to a build up of grease
or fat in the pipe. Both these type of blockage build up
gradually and the flow of water leaving the appliance becomes
slower and slower. This is because the inside of the pipe
is becoming increasingly smaller as the deposits build up
over time. Regular use of chemical drain cleaners will help
keep the waste system clear and smelling fresh, but remember
to follow the instructions carefully.
If one of the appliances fails to empty when all the others
do, the blockage must be in the vicinity of its branch pipes.
Try using a sink plunger, remembering to block off the overflow
with some wet rags. Make sure there is enough water to in
the appliance to cover the cup of the plunger. Plunge vigorously
for several seconds and then repeat the process until the
blockage clears. Flush the pipes with clean water to remove
any debris and disinfect to freshen and cleanse the area.
If the method fails try using a hand operated hydraulic
pump. Block off the overflow with wet rags and fill the
pump with water. Hold the nozzle over the outlet and a downward
action on the tool forces a powerful water jet along the
pipe to dislodge or disperse the blockage. If it still appears
blocked, keep the tool in position and apply an upward stroke
to create sufficient suction to dislodge the blockage. If
the method fails the trap needs clearing. The trap is situated
below the waste outlet. It is a bent tube, which is designed
to hold water in order to prevent odours from the drain
entering the room.
Brass or lead U traps
Old-style U traps are generally made of brass or lead and
must be handled with care to avoid damage. Place a bucket
or bowl underneath and using a wrench unscrew the cleansing
eye at the bottom of the trap. Use a rod or bent coathanger
to wire out any debris remaining. Rinse the sink with water
to remove all debris from the trap. Clean the thread of
the clearing eye, and before replacing, wrap some PTFE tape
around it to prevent leaks. Run water through the system
to check the connections are watertight.
Plastic U traps
Plastic U traps do not have clearing eyes, so it will be
necessary to remove the trap. There are lock nuts either
side of the trap, which should be unscrewed to release the
trap. If they are reluctant in moving, try applying boiling
water over the top, remember to have a bowl or bucket below.
Before replacing wrap some PTFE tape around the locknut
threads to prevent leaks. Run water through the system to
check the connections are watertight.
Bottle traps
Bottle traps are the easiest traps to clear because the
whole base of the trap can be unscrewed by hand. Once the
debris has been removed from the trap, use a rod or metal
coathanger to probe the wastepipe for any residue. Rinse
the trap thoroughly and cleanse with disinfectant. Before
replacing wrap some PTFE tape around the cover thread to
prevent leaks. Run water through the system to check the
connections are watertight.
