Blocked drain pipe. Yes, I know another one of these.

[blocked]

Hi guys, the waste pipe (is that what it is called? it is the pipe leading from my sink) in my bathroom is blocked. I have cleared the P-trap, used a gel-like drain cleaner I got from a supermarket, poured boiling hot water down it, poured strong bleach down it, none of which worked. I even separated the P-trap from the remainder of the pipe and rammed a sharp pole down it in an attempt to dislodge what is causing the blockage. I suspect I may have just compacted whatever is is causing the blockage. I have attached photos of the substance I think may be causing the blockage. To me it looks like limescale but I am from a soft water area so I am not sure. Let me know if it is.

I've also attached a photo of the part of the pipe where the blockage is.

Obviously, I am trying to avoid using a plumber as I think the problem should be easily solved and I am broke. If anyone can suggest a way of clearing the blockage without the use of a plumber and cheaply I'd be really appreciative. I have thought about putting something down the part of the pipe where the blockage is that may 'dissolve' limescale.:smile:.

L.

 

[Paulus]

That doesn't look at all like limescale, more like tile cement or plaster. Have you had work done and the tradesman has emptied buckets down there?

If so, get him back, it's his responsibility.

If not, and you can't force the blockage through to the soil pipe the only way is to replace the pipe. If you can access both ends , simply disconnect, buy a new piece of pipe (11/2" push fit) and Bob's your uncle.

If you can't disconnect fully due to access at the bottom of the pipe you could cut out a section of pipe and replace it using two push-fit straight connectors. The only problem is that you don't know how far the blockage goes, but it's worth a try if cash is a problem.

 

[dave1]

Go buy yourself a decent plunger and get plunging....

 

[Paulus]

Go buy yourself a decent plunger and get plunging....

If a sharp pole won't clear it, I doubt a plunger doing any good dave.

 

[glenno1]

Split the pipe at the elbow and pour caustic soda down leave for 15 mins and see if that clears it

 

[JCplumb]

There's already 'some gel' and strong bleach down there, you'd need to be a chemist to predict what will happen with another chemical in there. Adding the heat associated with caustic may create chlorine gas. I'd try a plunger first, then a drain snake. I'd also be sure to wear PPE.

 

[Carl86]

http://www.ukplumbersforums.co.uk/plumbing-forum/37848-careful-when-you-try-clear-those-drains.html

Best to for the original poster to take alook at this thread before letting loose with chemicals down the sink.

Always read and follow instructions carefully when using these products and always use Protective Equipment and clothing.

 

[snowhead]

Wet vac and suck on the pipe.