How do you tell if your outside drain is blocked?

A properly functioning outside drain is essential for maintaining a clean and dry environment around your home. When drains become blocked, it can lead to unpleasant odours, water damage, and even more severe problems like flooding. Identifying a blockage early can save you time and money. In this article, we’ll explore the common signs of a blocked outside drain and what to do when you suspect a problem.

One of the most common indicators of a blocked outside drain is slow drainage. If you notice that water is taking longer than usual to drain from sinks, showers, baths or even toilets, the problem might be with your outside drain. A slow drain could be the result of debris or build-up in the pipe, causing water to struggle as it moves through. If multiple fixtures around your home are affected, the blockage is likely located outside.

Another telltale sign of a blocked drain is foul smells coming from the drainage system. As waste and other substances get trapped in the pipes, they begin to break down and decompose, causing unpleasant odours. These smells can intensify when water is running, as it agitates the bacteria and waste inside the pipes. If your outside drain is clogged, you may notice a strong, foul odour near the drain or outside of your home.

Gurgling sounds from drains or plug holes are often a warning sign of a blockage. When water tries to pass through an obstruction, it can displace air trapped in the pipes, leading to that characteristic gurgling noise. This sound is most noticeable when running taps or flushing toilets. If you hear gurgling sounds regularly, especially when using multiple fixtures, it’s likely time to investigate your outside drain.

Perhaps the most obvious sign of a blocked outside drain is raised water levels or overflowing. If you notice water levels rising in toilets or sinks, or if water starts to pool around your outdoor drains, this indicates that something is preventing the water from flowing freely. Overflowing or pooling water around your drain can be a sign of a significant blockage that needs immediate attention.

Before you begin attempting to clear a blocked drain, take a moment to assess the situation. Start by checking for visible signs of blockage around the drain cover. Remove the cover if you can and look for any obvious debris or stagnant water. If water is standing around the drain, it might indicate where the blockage is located. If only one fixture in your home is affected, the problem may be confined to the internal plumbing. However, if multiple fixtures are slow to drain or gurgling, the blockage is likely in the outside drain.

If your drains are blocked, then it is likely that you will need professional assistance. You can find a plumber using our search tool to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently.