24/7 Same Day ServiceLocal Blocked Drain Specialists

Your local 24/7 emergency drainage solution. Experts in drain unblocking, cleaning, surveys & repairs. Upfront pricing. Fast response. No call out fee. Great ratings & reviews.

Get a FREE Callback & Advice

24/7 Emergency Blocked Drain Clearance

Rapid Drains offer a 24/7 emergency drain clearance service. We have engineers in your area ready to clear your blocked drain so your day can return to normal with minimal fuss. If you require the services of a professional call Rapid Drains now on 0330 333 6199

The sooner you call, the sooner we can efficiently resolve your problems and prevent further damage to your blocked drains.

 

Latest Technology

We use the latest high pressure water jetting technology to unblock and clean your blocked drains & plumbing. We have the latest CCTV equipment to perform surveys and assess problems.

24/7 Call Out Service

Our engineers work around the clock to fix your drainage emergencies. 24 hours a day 7 days a week, and we can usually be with you within a rapid 1-2 hour response time.

Drainage Advice

Our friendly advisors are drainage experts who are on hand to offer the best advice and assistance. We are always happy to help so get in touch!

Upfront Costs

We are always on hand to help with any domestic, residential, commercial drainage issue, big or small, at competitve rates and prices. Costs explained up front. No call out fees.

What our customers say

How We WorkEmergency Drainage Experts

  • Assess your drainage or plumbing problem with the latest technology
  • Provide upfront rates and prices for resolution and repair
  • Unblocking and cleaning of pipework, removal of roots and hard water scale
  • Patches, re-lining, de-scaling, root-cutting, hassle free no dig solutions
  • 10 Year guarantee provided on all remedial works

Need quality drainage services?We have got you covered

Rapid Drains offer a 24/7 emergency drain clearance service. We have engineers in your area ready to clear your blocked drain so your day can return to normal with minimal fuss. If you require the services of a professional call Rapid Drains now on 0330 333 6199

Service : 24/7 1-Hour Reactive Call Out Service

Trustworthy : Highly Rated on Google, Trustpilot, Checkatrade & Yell

Professional : Fully Insured & Experienced Engineers

Guarantee : Upfront & Fair Pricing, Senior Citizen Discounts

Our Services

Common Causes Of Problems Within A Sewer Line

24/7 Emergency Drainage services

Step 1

CONTACT RAPID DRAINS
24/7 For a local engineer in your area

Step 2

EVALUATION
After evaluating the problem, we will provide you with an estimate & ETA

Step 3

ENGINEER ARRIVAL
Will be able to start work immediately and solve your issue quickly and efficiently

What are the signs of a blocked drain?

Slow Drainage: If you notice that waste water is draining slowly from sinks, showers, or bathtub drains, it could indicate a blocked drain. The water may take longer than usual to empty, or you may see it pooling around the drain.

Gurgling Noises: When you run water down a drain, do you hear gurgling sounds coming from other drains or plumbing fixtures? This could be a sign that air is trapped in the pipes due to a blockage, causing unusual noises when water tries to pass through.

Foul Odors: Unpleasant smells coming from drains, particularly in sinks, showers, or toilets, can be an indication of a blockage. Blockages can trap debris and organic matter, leading to the buildup of bacteria and causing bad odors to emanate from the drains.

Backed-Up or Overflowing Toilets: If flushing the toilet results in the water rising to the brim or overflowing, it's likely there's a blockage in the toilet trap or the main sewer line. This can be a more severe blockage that requires immediate attention.

Multiple Clogged Drains: When several drains in your home are clogged simultaneously, it may suggest a blockage in the main sewer line. This can affect multiple fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and showers.

Rising Water Levels in Gully or Drain Covers: If you have external drains, such as gullies or drain covers, and you notice water levels rising or overflowing from these points, it could indicate a blockage further down the drainage system.

If you experience any of these signs, it's advisable to address the issue promptly. Ignoring drain blockages can lead to more significant problems, such as pipe damage, sewer backups, or flooding. Consulting a professional plumber or drainage specialist at Rapid Drains can help diagnose the cause of the blockage and determine the appropriate course of action to clear it.

How do professionals unblock drains?

High-Pressure Water Jetting: Water jetting, also known as hydro jetting, is a technique that uses a high-pressure water stream to clear blockages. A specialized jetting machine generates a powerful water flow that can break apart and flush away debris, tree roots, or stubborn obstructions within the pipes. Hydro jets are sophisticated tools used by drainage engineers & plumbers to clear out drains. Using a high-pressure hose with a distinctive rear-facing nozzle connected to the terminal end and a machine that pressurises the water to propel the hose inside the drain line and into the blockage. A drainage engineer inserts the hose and nozzle into your pipes and blasts high-pressure water through it to scour out the drain pipes. Not only does this move out clogs, but it also helps to remove hard deposits and hard water minerals. This is one of the most popular and safe ways of unclogging and cleaning out drains.

Chemical Drain Cleaners: In some cases, professionals may use chemical drain cleaners to dissolve or break down certain types of blockages. These cleaners contain chemicals that can effectively dissolve or disintegrate organic matter, hair, grease, or other substances causing the blockage. However, chemical drain cleaners should be used with caution and only by trained professionals to avoid damage to pipes or harm to individuals.

Drain Snakes or Augers: A drain snake or auger is a long, flexible metal cable with a coil or hook at the end. It is inserted into the drain or pipe, and as it is pushed further, the coil or hook helps break up or retrieve the blockage. Drain snakes can be manually operated or powered by a motor for more challenging blockages.

Drain Rods: Drain rods are long, sturdy rods that can be attached together to create a longer length. They are inserted into the drain or sewer line and manipulated to break up or dislodge the blockage. Drain rods may be used with attachments such as a plunger or corkscrew end to assist in clearing the obstruction.

CCTV Drain Inspection: Before attempting any unblocking method, professionals often perform a CCTV drain survey to assess the cause and location of the blockage. This involves inserting a small camera attached to a flexible cable into the drain to visually inspect the interior and identify the nature of the blockage. This information helps determine the most suitable method for unblocking the drain.

It's important to note that severe or persistent blockages may require more extensive measures, such as excavation or pipe replacement. Professional drain specialists have the expertise and equipment to assess the situation and employ the appropriate techniques to clear the blockage effectively.

Should I get a CCTV drain survey?

Whether or not you should get a CCTV drain survey depends on your specific situation and needs. Here are a few factors to consider:

Suspected Drainage Issues: If you are experiencing recurring drain blockages, slow drainage, unpleasant odors, or other signs of drainage problems, a CCTV drain survey can help identify the cause of the issue. It allows you to visually inspect the condition of your drains and pinpoint any blockages, cracks, or damage.

Property Purchase or Renovation: If you are buying a new property or planning a renovation, a CCTV drain survey can provide valuable information about the condition of the drainage system. It can reveal any existing problems or potential issues that may require repairs or maintenance in the future. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses down the line.

Preventative Maintenance: Even if you're not currently experiencing any drainage issues, a periodic CCTV drain survey can be a proactive measure to detect early signs of damage or deterioration. It allows you to identify and address potential problems before they escalate, potentially saving you from more significant repair costs in the future.

Compliance and Insurance Requirements: In some cases, CCTV drain surveys may be required by local regulations or insurance companies. For example, if you're operating a commercial property or managing rental properties, regular drain inspections may be necessary to comply with certain standards or maintain insurance coverage. Be sure to check any applicable requirements in your area with one of our friendly representatives.

Why do drains get blocked?

Drains can get blocked due to various reasons. Here are some common causes of drain blockages:

Accumulation of Debris: The buildup of debris is one of the primary causes of drain blockages. Over time, materials such as hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, and other solid substances can accumulate in drains and pipes, narrowing the passage for water flow.

Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots can intrude into underground drain pipes in search of water and nutrients. As roots grow and spread, they can exert pressure on the pipes, causing cracks or blockages. Roots can also enter through existing cracks or joints and create a tangled mass that obstructs the flow of water.

Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG): Pouring fat, oil, and grease down the drain is a common but detrimental practice. When FOG substances cool down, they solidify and adhere to the inner walls of the drain pipes, eventually leading to blockages. FOG can also trap other debris, exacerbating the problem.

Foreign Objects: Accidentally or intentionally flushing foreign objects down the toilet or putting them down the drain can result in blockages. Items like sanitary products, diapers, wet wipes, cotton balls, paper towels, and small toys can get stuck in the pipes, impeding water flow.

Structural Damage: Cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, ground movement, or external factors can lead to drain blockages. The damaged areas can create obstructions or provide spaces for debris and roots to accumulate.

Incorrect Installation or Design: Poorly installed or improperly designed drainage systems can contribute to blockages. Inadequate slope or incorrect pipe sizing can impede the proper flow of wastewater, causing backups and blockages.

Extreme Weather Conditions: Heavy rainfall, storms, or flooding can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to blockages. Excessive water volume, debris carried by the water, or inundation of the sewer system can cause backups and blockages.

Regular maintenance and adopting good practices can help prevent drain blockages. This includes avoiding pouring FOG down the drain, using drain guards to catch debris, regular cleaning, and being mindful of what is flushed or poured down the drains.

Is a blocked drain an emergency?

Whether a blocked drain qualifies as an emergency depends on the specific circumstances and severity of the blockage. Here are some factors to consider when determining if a blocked drain requires immediate attention:

Severity of Blockage: If the blockage is minor and causes only a slight inconvenience, such as slow drainage in a sink or shower, it may not be considered an emergency. In such cases, you can attempt some DIY methods or schedule a professional to address the issue at a convenient time.

Impacted Essential Facilities: If the blocked drain affects essential facilities, such as a toilet or a kitchen sink, it can significantly disrupt daily activities and hygiene. In these situations, where access to necessary facilities is compromised, the blockage may be considered an emergency.

Wastewater Backup or Flooding: If the blockage causes wastewater to back up into sinks, showers, or toilets, or if it leads to flooding in or around your property, it should be treated as an emergency. Wastewater backups pose health risks and can cause significant property damage if not addressed promptly.

Multiple Blocked Drains: When multiple drains in your home or building are blocked simultaneously, especially if they are on different levels or in different areas, it could indicate a more extensive issue in the main sewer line. This may require immediate attention to prevent further damage and backups.

Unusual Odors or Sounds: If the blocked drain is accompanied by foul odours, gurgling sounds, or unusual noises, it could indicate a more serious problem in the drainage system. These signs may suggest that the blockage is impeding proper venting or causing pressure build-up, requiring immediate attention.

In emergency situations, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber or drainage specialist at Rapid Drains who can provide prompt assistance. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and clear the blockage effectively. Prompt action can help mitigate potential damage, health risks, and further inconveniences associated with a blocked drain.

QUALIFIED AND INSURED DRAINAGE COMPANY24/7 EMERGENCY BLOCKED DRAIN UNBLOCKING CLEARANCE0330 333 6199

Drainage specialists covering the South of England.
Suffering from a blocked drain? Call now to speak to one of our service professionals and book a drainage engineer in your area.
Please use our contact details below to get in touch with one of our friendly representatives.

Contact Us

Email:
contact@rapiddrains.co.uk
Freephone:
0330 333 6199
Landline:
01202 905 969