My Sink Is Blocked: What Should I Do? A Quick Guide from Flow Sure Drains Bristol

antony lord • July 30, 2023

A blocked sink can be a real nuisance, causing inconvenience and disrupting your daily routine. If you've encountered this issue, fret not! In this comprehensive guide brought to you by Drains Bristol, we will explore the common causes of sink blockages and provide you with actionable steps to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. Our team of drainage experts has compiled these tips to help you unclog your sink, restoring the smooth flow of water in no time.

  1. Understanding the Common Causes of Sink Blockages

Before delving into the solutions, it's essential to understand why your sink might be clogged in the first place. Common causes include:

  • Accumulation of Food Residues: Food particles, grease, and oil can build up over time, leading to blockages in kitchen sinks.
  • Hair and Soap Scum: Bathroom sinks often get clogged due to hair and soap scum combining to form obstructions.
  • Foreign Objects: Accidental dropping of small items down the drain, such as jewelry or bottle caps, can cause blockages.
  • Mineral Deposits: In regions with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate and obstruct the flow of water.
  1. DIY Solutions for Clearing a Blocked Sink

Now that we've identified some causes, let's explore practical DIY solutions to clear that stubborn blockage:

  • Use a Plunger: A plunger can work wonders in dislodging minor sink blockages. Ensure there's enough water to cover the plunger, place it over the drain, and pump it up and down to create pressure that dislodges the clog.
  • Baking Soda and Vinegar: This natural solution can help break down organic materials causing blockages. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for a few hours, then flush the drain with hot water.
  • Boiling Water: For minor blockages, simply pouring boiling water down the drain may be enough to clear the obstruction.
  1. When to Seek Professional Help

While DIY methods can work for minor clogs, certain situations may require professional intervention. Consider contacting drainage experts like Drains Bristol if:

  • The blockage persists despite trying DIY solutions.
  • There are multiple clogged drains in your home.
  • Foul odors emanate from the sink or drain.
  • You suspect a more severe underlying issue, such as a damaged or collapsed pipe.
  1. Preventive Measures for Future Blockages

They say prevention is better than cure, and the same holds true for sink blockages. Here are some preventive measures to keep your drains running smoothly:

  • Use Sink Strainers: Place sink strainers or stoppers over the drains to catch food particles, hair, and other debris before they go down the pipes.
  • Avoid Pouring Grease: Dispose of cooking grease in a container and throw it in the trash, as pouring grease down the sink can lead to stubborn clogs.
  • Regular Maintenance: Schedule periodic drain cleaning and maintenance services from professionals like Drains Bristol to prevent the buildup of debris and keep your drains in optimal condition.

Conclusion

Dealing with a blocked sink can be bothersome, but with the right knowledge and a bit of effort, you can resolve the issue effectively. By understanding the common causes of sink blockages, trying out DIY solutions, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can restore the flow of water in no time. Remember to take preventive measures to keep your drains clear and functioning correctly. If you encounter persistent or complex blockages, don't hesitate to reach out to the experts at Drains Bristol for prompt and reliable assistance.Call FLOW SURE DRAINS for more information and professional drainage services tailored to your needs. Our team of specialists is dedicated to ensuring your drains remain clear and trouble-free, allowing you to focus on the things that matter most in your life.






You might also like

Circular blocked rans

Blocked Drains Bristol

September 4, 2025
Drains blocked in Bristol?

"Need a Drain Unblocked in Bath? We’ve Got You Covered!"

August 13, 2025
"Fast & Reliable Drain Unblocking Services in Bath – 24/7 Emergency Repairs!"

Drain Interceptors Bristol

May 15, 2025
What Are Drain Interceptors — And Why Do They Matter in Bristol? If you own or manage a property in Bristol built before the 1950s, there’s a good chance you’ve got a Victorian drain interceptor buried beneath your feet. And if your toilet’s slow to flush, your kitchen gulley smells, or the manhole’s backing up — that interceptor might be the hidden cause. At Flow Sure Drains , we uncover, inspect, and solve problems caused by these outdated systems every week across Bristol and the South West. 🧱 What is a Drain Interceptor? A drain interceptor (also known as a 'buchan trap' ) is an old-fashioned U-bend-style fitting found in Victorian and early 20th-century drainage systems. It was originally designed to: Stop sewer gases from entering the home Create a water seal between your drains and the public sewer But over time, these traps have become liabilities : They trap debris and grease They’re hard to access and maintain They collapse or become blocked, causing upstream problems in your house 🧰 Signs Your Drain Interceptor is Failing You may not even know you have one until it causes trouble. Watch out for: Persistent foul smells near external drains Toilets gurgling or slow to drain Manhole overflowing, but pipes seem clear Water sitting at the base of manholes Flow Sure Drains uses HD CCTV cameras to locate and inspect old interceptors. In many cases, we find root ingress , blockages , or collapses that have gone undiagnosed for years. ⚙️ Should You Remove or Bypass a Drain Interceptor? In most cases — yes . Interceptors no longer serve a useful purpose in modern drainage networks. Wessex Water and Bristol City Council both permit — and in some cases recommend — their removal or bypass, provided: You use a licensed contractor The replacement connection maintains flow and compliance We can: Excavate and remove the old trap Install a straight-through connection Use no-dig repair (patch lining) where possible Handle Wessex Water permissions where needed "What is a Victorian drain interceptor?" “It’s an old-style U-bend in the main drain system, common in pre-1950s Bristol homes, and often causes blockages today.” "Should I remove my drain interceptor?" “In most cases yes — modern systems don’t need them, and they often cause problems.” "Who removes drain interceptors in Bristol?" “Flow Sure Drains — local drainage experts with no call-out fee, CCTV inspections, and full removal service.” 📍 Why Choose Flow Sure Drains? ✅ Based in Bristol — we know the quirks of local Victorian drainage ✅ No call-out fees ✅ CCTV and no-dig solutions ✅ Emergency response available 24/7 📞 0117 427 4565 🌐 www.drains-bristol.co.uk

Get in Contact