Experts from Maintracts, a plumbing and home maintenance specialist, advise that a mixture of washing up liquid and hot water can effectively unblock outdoor kitchen drains. However, they caution that this method should only be applied to drains connected to the kitchen sink, not to rainwater drains, as chemical-based detergents can harm waterways and wildlife.
Weather Patterns Cause Drain Blockages
As the UK experiences divided weather, with northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland facing heavy rainfall while the south approaches heatwave conditions, homes in affected areas may encounter drainage issues. The Met Office forecasts further rain in the North on Sunday, July 5, and heavier rainfall across northwestern parts on Monday. Prolonged dry spells followed by intense rain can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to blockages from leaves, twigs, food waste, and grease.
Simple Solution for Kitchen Drain Blockages
According to Maintracts, outdoor drains linked to the kitchen sink often clog due to fat, oil, and grease (FOG). When hot grease is poured down the sink, it cools and hardens in the pipe, trapping food scraps, soap scum, and dirt. The company recommends pouring boiling water mixed with a generous amount of washing up liquid into the drain. The hot water melts the fat, while the soap breaks it down, allowing it to be flushed away. For best results, repeat the process several times.
To minimize environmental impact, choose a plant-based, chemical-free washing up liquid. For rainwater drains, a natural alternative like vinegar and bicarbonate of soda is safer.
Preventative Measures
Once the blockage is cleared, Maintracts suggests several steps to prevent recurrence: never pour fat or grease down the sink, wipe plates and pans before washing, use sink strainers to catch solids, install a grease trap if cooking frequently, and keep gullies and drain covers clear of leaves and debris.
