Expert Advice from CDL Plumbing & Drainage on What To Do When You Have a Blocked Sewage Drain

A blocked sewage drain or sewer line is not the same as one of your drains or pipes. The main sewage line or pipe can sometimes get blocked causing an overflow into your garden, driveway or path or wherever your outside sewage drains are located. They can be unblocked yourself, but it will be messy and unpleasant so read on if you want some tips on how to unblock your sewage drain.

Recognising the Signs of a Blocked Sewage Drain

Before we delve into the solutions, it's crucial to identify the common signs of a blocked sewage drain. Look out for slow drainage, gurgling sounds, foul odours, and water backups in sinks, toilets, or shower drains. If you notice any of these indicators, it's time to take action. There are many common causes so please be aware.

If your main sewer line hasn’t overflowed yet (you may have more than one) then try taking the drain lid off to see what’s going on. Sometimes the blockage is apparent or you may see water in the drain that isn’t receding and only rising the more you use your drains. You need to take action before it overflows and becomes a bigger problem. If you think the blockage is outside your property boundary then read here for more info.

Safety First: Gather the Right Tools

To unblock a sewage drain safely and efficiently, you'll need a few essential tools. As a homeowner, keep these tools on hand: protective gloves, eye goggles, a drain snake or auger, and a bucket. Even old-school drain rods can work. By having these tools readily available, you can tackle minor blockages before they escalate into major plumbing issues.

Clearing a Minor Blockage by Hand with a Bucket

For minor blockages, simply getting into the drain and removing what appears to be the blockage by hand (nasty) might simply be the quickest and easiest solution. Wearing gloves just scoop out and remove the offending cause and empty it into a bucket. Once the drain clears you can empty the bucket back into the drain. Then take a shower.

Using a Drain Snake or Auger

When sewage water has risen in the drain and you can’t manually remove the blockage, a drain snake or auger (drain rod) becomes invaluable. Insert the snake or auger into the drain until you feel resistance. Rotate the tool clockwise while pushing it further until you encounter the clog. Break up the obstruction by carefully manoeuvring the snake or auger. Once you've dislodged the blockage, retract the tool and dispose of any debris properly.

Get Professional Help

If your attempts to unblock the sewage drain have been unsuccessful, it's time to call in the experts. CDL Plumbing & Drainage, based in Newcastle, offers professional plumbing services, including sewage drain unblocking. Our experienced technicians utilise advanced equipment and techniques to identify and remove even the most stubborn blockages, ensuring the long-term health of your plumbing system.

In Summary

A blocked sewage drain can be a stressful situation, but armed with the right knowledge and tools, you can tackle it effectively. Remember to be cautious, start with simple solutions like plunging, and escalate to using a drain snake or auger if necessary.

Prevention is also better than the next cure so take these steps as well as these to avoid any future blockages.

If all else fails, CDL is ready to provide expert assistance in Newcastle or Lake Macquarie. Don't let a blocked drain disrupt your life—reach out to our team today!