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What to do if your Outside Drain is Clogged With Leaves?

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October 30, 2022
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By Ben Harb
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2 min read

Is your outside drain clogged with leaves?

Out of many factors that cause the outside drains to block, tree leaves, roots and branches are the most popular ones. It can be a serious hygiene issue to not take any action if your outside drain is blocked and overflowing.

Drains that are blocked externally can also cause a funny smell in your bathroom and kitchen. In a lot of cases, a professional might not be needed. However, there is always a risk when performing DIY plumbing and it’s better to get in touch with a blocked drain specialist when there is an option.

Note: DIY plumbing is risky and can invite further plumbing problems. We do not recommend performing these techniques unless someone experienced is involved.

Check out different ways which can help you unblock outside drains below…
Leaves that wash off the roof end up in the same place, so clearing roof gutters first saves doing this twice.

Way to Unblock Outside Drain | DIY Tips

Wire hanger

A bent coat hanger is an unconventional but effective way to unclog drains. However, while performing this please make sure you have gloves and other PPC worn as required. Also, do not push the dirt further down the drain and pull the blockage outside.

Using boiling water

Boiling water is known to be one of the easiest ways to fix blocked drains. Simply, put boiling water from the kettle down the drain. Make sure not to burn your fingers while doing so.

Vinegar and baking soda

The combination of baking soda and vinegar works like magic when it comes to cleaning and unblocking drains.  This combination is one of the most effective DIY techniques. Mix an equal ratio of vinegar and baking soda, and pour it down the drain soon after. Leave the mixture for it to work and wash it with hot water after a while.

While these DIY techniques work in a lot of cases, they might not solve the problem in the long run. Also, performing DIY techniques can sometimes backfire and might turn out to be costly due to some underlying problems.
If water still pools once the grate is clear, the blockage sits further along the stormwater line. Our guide to unblocking a stormwater drain covers that, and blocked drain tools covers the gear.

Call Sydney’s best-blocked drain plumbers

Dealing with stubborn drains time and again can be hectic. Get in touch with one of Sydney’s best-blocked drain plumbers if you ever need help with drain blockages in Sydney. Not just outside drains but we are also experts when it comes to unblocking sinks, toilets, bathroom drains, and more. Our team of experienced Sydney plumbers can also attend to Sydney residents ASAP in any case of drain plumbing emergencies. For more information please give us a call on (02) 8999 6125.

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