If your outside drain has stopped flowing, it’s likely due to a blockage, and acting quickly can prevent nasty backups, flooding, or even damage to your property.
Identify the problem initially
First, figure out what type of drain it is. A surface water drain handles rainwater from gutters or driveways, while a foul water drain takes wastewater from toilets, sinks and washing machines. If you notice standing water, slow drainage, or bad smells, there’s a blockage somewhere.
Always put safety first
Wear gloves and boots. Drains can be unhygienic. If you’re using cleaning chemicals or tools, wear eye protection too. Carefully lift the manhole or drain cover near the blockage. Look to see if the water is backing up, or if the chamber is full or partially blocked. If it’s clear, the problem may be in a pipe closer to your house.
You can try DIY unblocking
Use a set of drain rods to push through the blockage. These are available at DIY shops. You could also try a garden hose with a drain jet attachment as this can flush out grime. Try a drain unblocker for simpler blockages. Avoid mixing chemical unblockers, as this can be dangerous.
Call the professionals for help
If you can’t clear it, call a drainage engineer or plumber. You can opt for a CCTV drain survey, which is a detailed inspection of your drainage system using a specialist camera that’s fed down into your pipes to check for blockages, damage, or structural issues. It’s a fast, non-invasive way to get a clear picture of what’s going on underground. You can get a CCTV drain survey Northampton through professionals such as wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/northampton.
How can I prevent future blockages?
Don’t pour fat, grease or coffee grounds down your sink. Always clear leaves and debris from guttering and grates, and install drain guards to help trap leaves and dirt. A blocked outside drain is unpleasant, but manageable. Act early, stay safe, and if it’s too much, get professional help. Prevention is always key.