Following a scorching May Bank Holiday, June has so far proved to be a washout, with persistent heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings issued by the Met Office over the past week. Some parts of the UK have endured non-stop rain for over a day, with further downpours expected before warm weather returns.
Why drains get blocked in wet weather
When conditions turn extremely wet, especially when large amounts of rain fall in a short time, drains come under serious pressure. Exterior drains can rapidly become blocked with leaves, twigs, and debris, while food waste, fat, grease, rice, and food residue can also cause outdoor kitchen drains to clog.
A simple fix using household items
Fortunately, there is a quick and simple fix to get a blocked kitchen drain flowing freely again. According to plumbing and home maintenance specialists Maintracts, outdoor drains connected to the kitchen sink can be cleared using nothing more than washing up liquid and hot water. This tip applies solely to drains linked to the kitchen sink. Avoid pouring it down any drain used purely for rainwater from the roof, as chemical-based washing up liquid is harmful to waterways and can be deadly to wildlife. For those drains, a natural alternative such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda is more suitable.
How to unblock the drain
To minimise environmental impact, opt for a plant-based washing up liquid free from chemical surfactants. Maintracts advises: "Fat, oil and grease (FOG) are among the biggest culprits behind blocked gullies and outside drains. When hot grease is poured down the sink, it may seem harmless. But as it cools in your foul water drain, it hardens and sticks to the pipe walls, collecting debris and creating a solid blockage."
To address this, simply combine washing up liquid with hot water. Maintracts adds: "Pour boiling water mixed with a generous amount of washing-up liquid into the drain. The boiling water helps melt the fat, while the soap breaks it down, making it easier to flush away. Do this slowly to allow the heat and detergent time to work. Repeat the process several times for optimal results."
Preventing future blockages
Once the blockage is cleared, take steps to prevent it recurring. Maintracts recommends: "Never pour fat or grease down the sink. Wipe plates and pans before washing to reduce residue. Use strainers in sinks to catch solid particles. Install a grease trap if you cook frequently. Keep gullies and drain covers clear of leaves, litter, and other outdoor debris."
