downstairs loo blockage, lifting indoor airtight manhole cover

rjm2k · 3 Feb 2020

hi, downstairs loo is blocked, no amount of plunger use has unblocked it (similar to this one) https://www.screwfix.com/p/professional-power-plunger/90321 . additionally, i've used some trade only unblocker which also hasn't done anything. It does empty, but takes around half an hour to do so.

Next step is to work out if it's the soil pipe, or the sewer, only problem is the manhole is inside my conservatory, from memory I was told by the previous owner that the chamber is about 6ft deep. Just wondering what to expect and anything I should do to ensure that the cover goes down again with a good seal.

I will open the external doors, close the internal doors and move as much stuff out of the way as I can. Should I put washing up liquid on the seals when I replace or similar, or is it likely to go back down and seal ok anyway?

I'm lifting to work out if it's the waterboard who need to deal with it (shared sewer), or if I need to get dynorod etal in.

thanks

just pumps · 3 Feb 2020

I would start by removing the toilet and seeing if the U bend is clear and checking the outlet pipe for a partial blockage such as a plastic rim fresh or a large wad of paper.

If there is a manufacturer name on the manhole cover or on any paperwork you have then see what they say re the seal.

Hugh Jaleak · 3 Feb 2020

Have you asked the Neighbours if they are experiencing any issues? If the shared sewer is blocked, it wont just be you affected. I'd suspect if it's not shifting by plunging then there's something more substantial down there, or the blockage is in the shared run, although to be honest, I'd suggest you'll be better trying with a 4" plunger on the end of a drain rod, that that contraption you've linked to....

Old school trick used to be to smear grease on the mating edge of the frame, so when the cover is put back it seals.

rjm2k · 3 Feb 2020

thanks, i'd wanted to avoid taking the loo off as the pipework is all concealed within it and I expect there is no isolation value like the rest of the pipework. sounds like it's more practical than lifting the cover though, so i might just get someone in who has more time than me!

thanks

Hugh Jaleak · 3 Feb 2020

As I said, speak to the neighbours first, if they also have issues, then it's the Water Co's issue from the outset, you dont need to worry. Otherwise, if you do need to engage someone, avoid Dyno Rob, look for an independent in your area, and get a price before they start.

rjm2k · 3 Feb 2020

will do thanks, we had a blockage in the past and theirs was ok but that one cleared, but I will be checking with them again

rjm2k · 15 Feb 2020

sorted, in the end I didn't fancy doing it so got a plumber i've used before to have a look, 6ft manhole with blockage (probably baby wipes from the looks of it, despite us never putting them down so either my 5yr old or visitors!) nice and clear now, 40 quid well spent

Hugh Jaleak · 15 Feb 2020

You'd be surprised about the number of blockages caused by wipes, yet the Householder claims they dont use wipes. (As they're the only property on the run at that point, its very difficult to see where else they could have come from...) However, in your case if the blockage was in the shared section, feel free to go and glare at anyone upstream.

HERTS P&D · 15 Feb 2020

£40.00

Jesus wept, how does he pay his bills?

Andy

oilboffin · 16 Feb 2020

Must say very cheap I'd be at least double that. Bob

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downstairs loo blockage, lifting indoor airtight manhole cover

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