How To Unblock Underground Drains Outside

If the blockage is only in a section of the drain that they are responsible for, they have a duty to clear the drain without charge. Bear in mind however that if the blockage extends to sections that are your responsibility, they are likely to make some charge.

But let’s assume the blockage is in a section of drain that as the property owner, you are responsible for. This is a DIY guide to unblocking the drain and getting everything flowing nicely as it should do.

Preparation

Having everything to hand before you start will make this task easier, faster and less unpleasant. Here’s what you’ll need:

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING/PPE

• Rubber gloves (gauntlet type are best)
• Safety goggles
• Face mask
• Disposable overalls (not essential, but much better if things get nasty!)

TOOLS FOR UNBLOCKING DRAINS

• Set of drain rods (you can generally get these from most DIY stores)
• Manhole cover keys (also from DIY stores, but a large slotted screwdriver may also work)
• Bucket or bin bags
• Garden hose

Unblocking the drain

1. Put on your protective clothing, making sure it fits comfortably and you can move freely.
2. Remove the drain cover using the manhole cover keys. This will be heavy and you may need assistance. Taking care to prevent the cover from falling into the drain, place it away from the working area.
3. Remove any visible blockage by hand, placing it in the bucket or bin bags for suitable disposal.
4. If the drain is still blocked, feed the drain rod in the direction of the blockage, applying slight pressure and always twisting them clockwise (twisting anticlockwise will unscrew the joints and risk leaving part of the drain rod – and the blockage – in the pipe).
5. Keep working at the blockage with a plunging and twisting action until the resistance starts to ease. You may start to see the level of the backlogged sewage start to drop. If there is no visible backlog, try adding some water with the garden hose and see if it disperses easily.
6. When you think the blockage has been cleared, try flushing a toilet to test it out.
7. When you are satisfied the blockage has been removed, use the hose to give the drain, your gloves and drain rods a good rinse down.
8. Replace the drain cover, making sure it is sitting snugly so it cannot move or present a trip hazard.
9. Dispose of the waste appropriately, give everything another good clean-down and reward yourself with a nice cup of tea and a biscuit.