The best tool to use for a blocked drain, be it toilet, sink or manhole, will depend on the type and severity of the blockage. Here we will break them down by the most effective tools specific to the problem.
Toilets
The best tool to use for a blocked toilet is a plunger. A plunger is a simple, inexpensive tool that can be very effective at clearing blockages in toilets.
To use a plunger, first make sure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the bottom of the plunger. If necessary, add water to the bowl until the bottom of the plunger is covered.
Next, place the plunger over the toilet drain and push down firmly. Make sure there is a good seal between the plunger and the drain. Then, quickly pull the plunger up and release it. Repeat this process several times, using a firm and steady motion.
If the blockage is particularly stubborn, you may need to try using a toilet auger or snake. This tool can be inserted into the toilet drain to break up the blockage and clear the pipe.
Rothenberger Toilet Plunger
The Ultimate Toilet Unblocking Tool
This has been my go-to for years for simple or stubborn toilet blockages. It’s expensive up front but could save numerous callouts…
- Most effective toilet plunger on the market
- Minimal Mess
- Easy to create lots of pressure to unblock
- Also works on sinks, showers, baths. etc
- Great for domestic or commercial use
It’s important to note that you should never use chemical drain cleaners to try and clear a blocked toilet. These products can be harmful to your plumbing system and can even cause damage to your toilet. Instead, stick to using mechanical tools like a plunger or a snake to clear the blockage. If you are unable to clear the blockage on your own, it’s best to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Sinks, Baths and showers
Sinks can be trickier to clear than toilets, usually because of limited access to get to the U bend or waste pipe.
Here are a few options to consider:
- Plunger: A plunger can be used to clear simple blockages in sink drains. Be sure to cover any other open drain holes in the sink or nearby fixtures before plunging, as this will help create a better seal around the drain you’re trying to clear. By plunger in this context, we mean a sink plunger and not a plunger on the end of a rod.
- Drain snake: A drain snake, also known as an auger, can be used to clear more stubborn blockages in sink drains. These tools can be purchased at most hardware stores, and can be used by inserting the snake into the drain and turning it until the blockage is cleared.
- Drain cleaner: If the blockage is caused by a build-up of grease or other debris, a chemical drain cleaner may be effective at dissolving the blockage. However, it’s important to use these products with caution, as they can be harmful to your plumbing system and to the environment. These are available from most large shops or supermarkets.
- Wet/dry vacuum: A wet/dry vacuum can be used to suck out any debris that is causing the blockage in the sink drain. Be sure to cover any other open drain holes in the sink or nearby fixtures before using the vacuum.
Sink Plunger
Rothenberger Plunger
A smaller version of the toilet plunger, this will deal with the most stubborn of sinks, baths and showers whilst remaining compact and cost effective.
A no-nonsense tool, simply place over plughole and pump!
Drain Snake
Vastar Drain Auger
A handheld, simple to use drain tool for clearing sink, bath and shower waste pipes.
Will even clear toilet pipes and stack pipes under the right circumstances. A worthy addition to the DIY enthusiast or handyman. Also great for maintaining pipes by cleaning routinely.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Draper Wetvac
Perfect accessory for clearing drains: Use this to lower the water level to open waste pipes without it flooding everywhere, suck out blockage from sink waste pipe, and use to clear any mess after clearing the drain. Win-win!
Be careful using electrical devices near water. Use an RCD to be safe.
Outside Drains and Kitchen Gullies
The best tools to use for a blocked kitchen gully will, as mentioned above, depend on the type and severity of the blockage. Here are a few options to consider:
Drain Rods with Accessories
Universal Drain Rods with Handy Carry Case
Bailey’s high quality brand, classic drainage rods for tackling most blockages. Simply attach accessory to end of first rod, then use as many as needed. Do not turn anticlockwise or left!
- 30ft length when all rods used.
- Standard, versatile 4″ rubber plunger
- Double worm screw
- Drop Scraper
- Easily stored in carry case
- Clears drains, gullies and toilets.
- Used by professionals and lay people alike
It’s important to note that if you are unable to clear the blockage on your own, or if the blockage is causing water to back up into your home uncontrollably, it’s best to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Using CCTV to Check Your Drains
One major benefit to modern technology, in particular smart phones and cameras, is that this kind of tech is becoming more cost effective and miniaturised. Professional drain engineers tend to have a selection of CCTV equipment from endoscope cameras for tight spaces and small pipe work to larger camera set ups that can do anything from household drain surveys to mains CCTV inspections with crawler CCTV machines.
But what if you had a small, cost effective camera that you can use to check for blockages, defects or other potential drainage issues?
Here you go:
3.9mm Industrial Endoscope
A handy little waterproof camera that will come in handy when checking small bore waste pipes for blockages or general condition. This camera can even be used to check voids and behind cupboards to see which way your pipe runs, any bends and how good the fall or gradient is.
Pros
- 4.3″ Display Screen
- Compact and easily stored
- IP67 rated (waterproof)
- 6 LED’s to light up in front of camera
- Useful in drains or through toilet U bend
Cons
- May not be needed for a one-off blockage
- This will struggle in deeper chambers
- May not reach through multiple tight bends
These are the basics of drain tools for inside and out the house, but there are always innovations and better tools coming out – so we will continuously update and expand this page to reflect the best drainage products for both anyone at home wanting to solve their own drainage issues and the professional, whether drainage engineer, plumber or general maintenance technician. Check back for more!
