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As autumn progresses and the Met Office issuing multiple weather warnings for strong winds and heavy rain recently, homeowners nationwide are preparing for potential disruption. Your outdoor drains are likely to face a real test during this spell of wet weather.
The heavy downpours can quickly clog drains with leaves, twigs and other debris. Kitchen waste including fat, grease, rice and food grime can also lead to blockages in outdoor drains.
But experts have shared a straightforward and budget-friendly method to clear drains without resorting to costly chemicals, reported the Daily Record.
In fact, you only need an ordinary bottle of washing up liquid. Maintracts, a plumbing and home maintenance company, recommends that blocked outdoor drains can be rapidly cleared using just washing up liquid and hot water, according to the Express.
The firm states: "Fat, oil and grease (commonly known as FOG) are among the biggest culprits behind blocked gullies and outside drains.
"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.
"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."
When hot grease goes down the sink, it might appear harmless. However, as it cools within your foul water drain, it solidifies and sticks to the pipe walls.
Over time, this sticky residue attracts other debris, including food scraps, soap scum and dirt, forming a solid, stubborn blockage.
To address this issue, simply use a combination of washing up liquid and hot water.
The experts 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 you've successfully cleared the blockage, there are steps you can take to stop it from happening again.
Maintracts has outlined the specific ways in which you can 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 drains
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