How to Clear a Blocked Downpipe Drain

A blocked downpipe drain can cause significant water damage and flooding, especially during heavy rainfall. Cleaning a blocked downpipe drain requires the right tools and techniques to remove the blockage effectively. Below are some steps and considerations when clearing a blocked downpipe drain.

What is a downpipe drain?

A downpipe drain is a crucial component of a building's water removal system, responsible for carrying rainwater from the roof to the ground. It is also known as a gutter pipe or drain pipe. Downpipes are essential for preventing water damage to a building's foundation and surrounding landscaping by effectively removing rainwater from the roof and directing it to a suitable drainage point, such as a drain or a soakaway.

What You Need to Fix a Blocked Downpipe Drain

Before cleaning a blocked downpipe drain, you need the right tools and products to ensure a successful outcome. Here are the essential items you should have if you try the DIY method to clear the blockage first:

Plunger

It works by creating suction to dislodge the blockage.

Why It's Important: The plunger is essential for clearing minor blockages in downpipe drains. It is also a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.

How to Use: Using a plunger to clear a blocked downpipe drain is a straightforward process. First, remove any debris or obstructions from the drain opening. Next, place the plunger over the drain opening, ensuring a tight seal. Push the plunger handle to create suction, then lift it slowly to dislodge the blockage. Repeat the process until the blockage is cleared.

Drain Snake (Auger)

Sometimes, it’s also referred to as a drill. A drain snake is typically made of a slender, flexible metal wire with a broader gap between the coils at the terminal end. The wire is usually made of durable steel or brass, which allows it to withstand the rigors of navigating through pipes and breaking up blockages. It is handy for clearing blockages caused by tree roots or other debris.

Why It's Important: The drain snake is crucial for clearing more severe blockages in downpipe drains. It can reach deeper into the drain system to remove blockages that are out of reach for other tools.

How to Use: To use a drain snake, feed the rod into the drain opening, rotating it as you push it further into the pipe. Once the snake reaches the blockage, rotate it to break up the blockage. Pull the snake back out, bringing the blockage with it. Repeat the process until the blockage is cleared.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

Baking soda and vinegar are eco-friendly solutions for clearing blockages in downpipe drains. The combination dissolves and breaks down the buildup, causing the blockage.

Why It's Important: Baking soda and vinegar are environmentally friendly and non-toxic, making them a safer choice for cleaning downpipe drains.

How to Use: To use baking soda and vinegar, pour 1 cup down the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 hours or overnight. Then, pour hot water down the drain to rinse.

Chemical Drain Cleaner

Chemical drain cleaners are potent cleaning agents designed to dissolve and break down blockages in downpipe drains.

Why It's Important: Chemical drain cleaners effectively clear severe blockages in downpipe drains. However, they can be harsh on pipes and may not be suitable for all types.

How to Use: When using a chemical drain cleaner, note the instructions on the product label. Carefully follow the indicated instructions. Let it sit for the recommended time. Then, pour hot water down the drain to rinse.

High-Pressure Jetting

High-pressure jetting involves using a high-pressure water jet to clear blockages in downpipe drains. It is one of the recommended methods if tree roots or other debris are causing the blockages.

Why It's Important: High-pressure jetting is crucial for clearing severe blockages in downpipe drains. It can reach deeper into the drain system to remove blockages that are out of reach for other tools.

How to Use: To use high-pressure jetting, feed the high-pressure jet into the drain opening. Adjust the pressure to the recommended level and move the jet along the pipe to clear the blockage. Repeat the process until the blockage is cleared.

Steps to Clean a Blocked Downpipe Drain

Now that you have the necessary tools and products, it's time to follow the steps to clean a clogged downpipe drain. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clear the blockage:

1. Identify the Blockage. Note what’s causing the blockage and where you can find it in the downpipe drain. An approximate spot will also do.

2. Clear Minor Blockages. Use a plunger to clear minor blockages in the downpipe drain.

3. Use a Drain Snake. Use a drain snake to clear more severe blockages in the downpipe drain.

4. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar. Use baking soda and vinegar to dissolve and break down blockages in the downpipe drain.

5. Use Chemical Drain Cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners dissolve and break down severe blockages in the downpipe drain.

6. Use High-Pressure Jetting. Use high-pressure jetting to clear severe blockages in the downpipe drain.

Considerations When Cleaning a Blocked Downpipe Drain

When cleaning a blocked downpipe drain, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure a successful outcome:

1. Safety First. When cleaning a blocked downpipe drain, remember to prepare your protective gear, including safety glasses and gloves.

2. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals. Avoid harsh chemicals if possible because they can harm the environment. Some chemicals even damage pipes when handled incorrectly.

3. Check for Underlying Issues. Check for underlying issues causing the blockage, such as tree roots or debris accumulation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning a Blocked Downpipe Drain

What Happens When a Downpipe is Blocked?

When a downpipe is blocked, water cannot flow properly, leading to water accumulation and potential flooding.

What Chemical Will Unblock a Downpipe?

Chemical drain cleaners are effective for clearing severe blockages in downpipe drains. However, they should be used cautiously and according to the product instructions.

What Do Plumbers Use to Unblock Drains?

Plumbers use various tools and techniques to unblock drains, including plungers, drain snakes, and high-pressure jetting. They also use pipe cameras, bacteria-based enzyme cleaners, and acidic cleaners, just to name a few more methods.

How do you deal with a severely clogged drain?

You can use the approaches mentioned above. If these methods do not work, contact a licensed professional plumber who can use hydrojetting to clear the clog and prevent it from reoccuring effectively.

How do you unclog an outdoor drain pipe?

To unclog an outdoor drain pipe, assess the clog and retrieve any visible blockages. If manual removal is impossible, use tools like a drain snake or auger to pierce and break up the clog. For more severe blockages, use high-pressure water from a power washer to force clogs through the pipes. 

Once the blockage is broken up, push the shaft of the snake or auger through the main body of the blockage and twist to grip and remove the clog. Clean up the pipe opening and the main drain grate, and consider cutting the grass near the drain opening and removing nearby vegetation to prevent future clogs. 

If the above steps do not work, try alternative methods like using a bent wire hanger, boiling water, vinegar, baking soda, or caustic soda. If the clog is severe or you are uncomfortable clearing it yourself, consider contacting a professional plumber for assistance.

When Nothing Works: How to Clean a Blocked Downpipe Drain

If you have tried the abovementioned methods and still cannot clear the blockage in your downpipe drain, it may be time to call a professional plumber. All Needs Plumbing offers a $0 callout fee, 24/7 same-day service, a 15% seniors discount, and $150 off hot water systems. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and let us help you get your downpipe drain flowing smoothly again.