DIY Drain Unblocking: What Works & What Doesn’t

Are DIY drain unblocking methods effective?

Blocked sewer drains can cause serious plumbing issues, from slow drainage and unpleasant odors to water damage and costly repairs. While DIY drain unblocking methods can be effective in some cases, others can make the problem worse.

This guide covers:

• The most common causes of blocked drains
• DIY methods that actually work
• Drain cleaning techniques to avoid
• When it’s time to call a professional plumber

If you’re dealing with a blocked sewer drain, keep reading to discover the best solutions.

Common Causes of Blocked Sewer Drains

Blocked drains develop gradually due to debris buildup and foreign objects obstructing water flow. 

The most common causes include:

Grease and Food Scraps

Kitchen drains are particularly susceptible to grease buildup from cooking oils, butter, and food scraps, which harden inside pipes and cause persistent blockages.

Hair Buildup

Bathroom sinks and shower drains frequently block due to hair buildup, which combines with soap residue to form tough obstructions.

Soap Residue and Rust Buildup

Soap residue coats pipe walls, trapping debris and reducing drainage. Over time, rust buildup in metal pipes can worsen blockages.

Hard Water Deposits

Homes with hard water often experience mineral deposits forming inside pipes, leading to slow drainage and blockages.

Sand, Silt, and Debris Buildup

Outdoor drains frequently block due to sand and silt, particularly after storms. These materials settle in pipes and restrict water flow.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots naturally seek out water and can grow into underground pipes, causing cracks, blockages, and major damage.

Damaged Pipes

Cracked or collapsed pipes prevent proper drainage and allow debris buildup, further restricting flow.

DIY Methods That Work for Unblocking Drains

Before calling a plumber, you may be able to clear minor blockages using these effective DIY methods:

Boiling Water

A simple solution for grease buildup, boiling water melts hardened fats and oils to restore water flow.

• Works for: Grease, soap residue
• Not effective for: Hair buildup, solid blockages

Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural drain cleaner that helps break down organic matter and clear odours.

How to do it:

1. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain.
2. Add one cup of vinegar and let it fizz for 15 minutes.
3. Flush with hot water to clear the drain.

• Works for: Mild blockages, odour removal
• Not effective for: Severe blocks, tree root intrusion

Plunging

A plunger creates suction to dislodge blocks in sinks, tubs, and toilets.

How to do it:

1. Fill the sink or toilet with enough water to cover the plunger’s cup.
2. Position the plunger over the drain and press down firmly.
3. Use quick, forceful plunges to break up the block.

• Works for: Surface blockages
• Not effective for: Deep blocks, damaged pipes

Drain Snake or Drain Stick

A drain snake or drain stick is a flexible tool inserted into the drain to remove hair buildup and minor debris.

• Works for: Hair blocks, minor debris buildup
• Not effective for: Grease, mineral deposits, deep blockages

Hydrojet Drain Cleaning

Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water jets (up to 5000 PSI) to blast away grease, silt, and tree roots.

How it works:

1. A hose attachment is inserted into the drain.
2. A petrol motor pumps high-pressure water into the pipes.
3. Digital camera equipment is used to inspect the drain afterwards.

• Works for: Tough blocks, tree root intrusion, grease buildup
• Not effective for: Severely damaged pipes

DIY Methods That Do Not Work (or Make Things Worse)

Chemical drain cleaners seem convenient but have serious drawbacks:

• They fail to remove entire blockages, leading to recurring blocks.
• The harsh chemicals corrode pipes over time.
• They pose health and environmental risks.

Wire Hangers and Improvised Tools

Using wire hangers or makeshift tools can push the block deeper or damage the pipes, making the issue worse.

Flushing with More Water

If a drain is blocked, forcing more water down will worsen the problem, leading to overflowing sinks or toilets.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If DIY methods don’t work, a professional plumber is your best option. Signs you need expert help include:

• Water is backing up in multiple drains, which is a sign of a main sewer line block.
• Gurgling sounds in pipes – Indicates air trapped by a blockage.
• Toilet water bubbling – Often caused by a blocked sewer drain.
• Persistent slow drainage – Even after DIY attempts, the block remains.
• Tree root intrusion – Roots require specialist removal equipment.
• Damaged pipes – Cracks or collapses need professional repair.

A plumber can use camera inspection tools and radio frequency locators to pinpoint the issue and offer the best solution.

Preventing Blocked Sewer Drains

To avoid future drain problems, follow these preventative measures:

• Dispose of grease properly – Never pour oils or fats down the sink.
• Use drain stoppers and screens to prevent food scraps, debris, and hair buildup.
• Flush drains with hot water regularly – Helps dissolve minor buildup.
• Install tree root barriers – Prevents tree roots from damaging pipes.
• Schedule professional drain cleaning – Regular plumber inspections help maintain clear pipes.

Final Thoughts

Not all DIY drain unblocking methods are effective. Some can even cause more harm than good. If a block persists, do not wait for the problem to worsen. 

Contact Sewer Surgeon for expert drain unblocking services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chemical drain cleaners safe to use?

No, they corrode pipes over time. Baking soda and vinegar are safer alternatives.

How often should I clean my drains?

Monthly cleaning with hot water or natural solutions can prevent buildup.

What is the best method for removing hair from drains?

A drain snake or drain stick is the most effective tool for hair buildup.

How can I tell if tree roots are blocking my pipes?

Signs include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, and water backups. A professional camera inspection can confirm tree root intrusion.

Can hydrojet drain cleaning damage pipes?

If pipes are already damaged, high-pressure water can worsen cracks. A plumber inspection is recommended before hydrojetting.