Parts of the UK are approaching what could be their fifth heatwave of the summer in the coming week, while other regions are braced for rainfall on Sunday. When heavy rain arrives, the drains alongside your home can rapidly become blocked with leaves, twigs and general debris, while food waste such as fat, grease, rice and other food residue washed down kitchen sinks can also cause outdoor drains to become congested.
Simple solution with washing-up liquid
However, there is one swift and straightforward method to restore a blocked kitchen drain to working order — and it requires no costly chemicals whatsoever. According to experts, all you need is an ordinary bottle of washing-up liquid, reports the Express.
According to plumbing and home maintenance company Maintracts, outdoor drains connected to the kitchen sink — and only these — can be cleared swiftly using nothing more than washing up liquid and hot water. It is worth noting that this tip applies solely to drains linked to the kitchen sink — avoid pouring it down a drain used purely for rainwater, as chemical-based washing up liquid is harmful to watercourses and can be fatal to wildlife.
Environmental considerations
For those drains, a natural alternative such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda is far more suitable. To minimise environmental impact as much as possible, choose a plant-based washing up liquid that is free from chemical surfactants.
Maintracts states in its online guidance: "Fat, oil and grease (commonly known as 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. Eventually, this sticky mess collects other debris, such as food scraps, soap scum and dirt, creating a solid, immovable blockage. This is especially problematic in outdoor drains, which are more exposed to the elements and can easily become a magnet for garden debris, mud and litter, thereby exacerbating the blockage."
How to unblock and prevent future issues
To address this issue, simply combine washing up liquid with hot water and apply the mixture to the affected drain. They added: "One of the simplest ways to unblock outside drain blockages caused by fat is to 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. Ensure to do this slowly to allow the heat and detergent time to work. Repeat the process several times for optimal results."
Once the blockage has been cleared, there are measures you can take to prevent it from recurring. Maintracts adds: "Here's how to keep your drains clear and flowing: Never pour fat or grease down the sink. Wipe plates and pans before washing to reduce the amount of residue going down the drain. Use strainers in your sinks to catch solid particles before they enter the system. Install a grease trap if you cook frequently or deal with large amounts of food waste. Keep gullies and drain covers clear of leaves, litter, and other outdoor debris to prevent surface water buildup."
