Your Blocked Sink Questions Answered

Find the Answer to All Your Blocked Sink Questions

Here at A1 Drain Clean, we’ve been cleaning and clearing blocked sinks in Newcastle and surrounding areas for way longer than we like to remember. As such, we spend an awful lot of time answering the questions of our customers.

They want to know what’s causing the problem, if they can fix it themselves and how they can prevent it happening again in the future.

So in this post, I’ve decided to compile a list of the most frequently asked questions we receive. I hope you find the answer here, but if not, don’t hesitate to get in touch using the contact form at the bottom of this page.

Blocked Sinks FAQs

How do I clear a blocked sink?

To unblock your sink try using a plunger or a chemical drain cleaner, but if the problem persists, consider contacting a professional sink and drain cleaner like A1 Drain Clean.

What causes blocked sinks?

Blocked drains are typically the result of various factors like grease buildup, foreign objects or – in some cases – tree root intrusion, so it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.

How do I prevent blocked sinks?

Avoid pouring grease, batter or thick cooking debris down drains. Outdoors, using drain covers can help prevent blockages.

Who is responsible for clearing blocked sinks?

Responsibility for clearing blocked drains depends on the type and location of the drain. In private property the responsibility usually falls on the homeowner, while issues in public areas, such as your road will be the responsibility of your local authority.

How do I clear a blocked outdoor drain?

Remove any visible debris and try using a specialist tool, like a drain snake or pressure washer. If unsuccessful, seek professional assistance.

Can leaves block drains?

Yes absolutely, fallen leaves frequently accumulate and block drains, especially during autumn. Regular cleaning and using drain guards will help prevent this issue.

My shower or bath is blocked, what can I do?

To begin with, remove any hair or debris that could be causing the problem. If the problem persists try a commercial cleaner, followed by hot water. If the blockage persists, give us a call at A1 Drain Clean.

Does pouring hot water down the sink help?

Yes, hot water can sometimes dissolve grease and loosen blockages, but it may only provide a temporary solution and blockages could return.

My toilet is flushing slowly and the water is rising higher than usual, what can I do?

Try using a toilet plunger to clear any blockages. Blocked toilets can easily flood, so if the problem persists, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance urgently.

Can I use a wire coat hanger to unblock my sink or bath?

Absolutely not. While a wire coat hanger can sometimes be effective, it is likely to damage the pipes, which will be an expensive repair. Far more cost effective to call in a professional if problems persist.

Are chemical drain cleaners safe to use?

Chemical drain cleaners can be effective at removing light blockages, but may also damage pipes and harm the environment. Our recommendation is to use them sparingly and consider other methods first.

Can cooking grease cause blocked sinks and drains?

Yes, grease is one of the most common causes of blocked sinks we see at A1 Drain Clean. Pouring cooking grease down your drain will eventually lead to blockages as it solidifies and accumulates over time. Better to find an alternative method of disposing of cooking fats.

How to clear a blocked dishwasher drain?

This can be a tricky one. Begin by removing the bottom rack and clearing any visible debris, then check the drain hose for blockages. Try running a cycle with vinegar and hot water to clean the drain. If the issue persists, give us a call.

Can I use bleach to unblock a sink?

While bleach can be helpful in dissolving organic matter, it may not be effective for all types of blockages and can become harmful if mixed with other chemicals.

My sinks smell bad, what can I do?

Try flushing the sink with hot water and baking soda or vinegar to neutralize odors. If the odor persists, there may well be a deeper issue and you should seek professional assistance as soon as possible.

Can tree roots cause blocked drains?

Oh yes. As this recent drain unblocking job shows, when it comes to outdoor drainage, tree roots can easily infiltrate, causing major blockages and potentially serious damage. If you suspect tree roots are blocking your drains, give A1 a call today.

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