Discovering that your outside drain is blocked with fat can be an unpleasant surprise. Over time, fat, oil, and grease from food waste can solidify in your external drain pipe, forming a stubborn blockage that’s not easy to remove. If left unchecked, it can lead to foul smells, slow-draining water, and even structural issues in your drainage system.
In the following write-up, we'll discuss how to unblock an outdoor drain with fat. Whether you're looking to do it yourself or know when to call in professionals, this blog has everything you need to tackle the problem effectively.
At Maintracts Services Ltd, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses across London deal with blocked drains since 1974. Our expert team utilises industry-approved methods to quickly, safely, and with minimal disruption, unblock outside drain systems. With no mess or stress, we're ready to provide reliable drainage support when you need it most. Contact us on 020 8682 2244 today for a prompt response and a no-obligation quote!
We don’t just clear blockages—we restore flow, hygiene, and peace of mind. Your drains deserve expert care, and we’re here to deliver it.
Why Fat Causes Blocked Outside Drains
Fat, oil, and grease (commonly known as FOG) are among the biggest culprits behind blocked gullies and outside drains. When hot grease is poured down the sink, it may seem harmless. But as it cools in your foul water drain, it hardens and sticks to the pipe walls. Eventually, this sticky mess collects other debris, such as food scraps, soap scum, and dirt, creating a solid, immovable blockage.
This is especially problematic in outdoor drains, which are more exposed to the elements and can easily become a magnet for garden debris, mud, and litter, thereby exacerbating the blockage.
Signs Your Outside Drain Is Blocked With Fat
Before you can unblock your outside drain, it's essential to identify the warning signs. You must look out for:
- Water is pooling around the drain cover
- Slow-draining sinks and outdoor gullies
- Poor odour coming from the drain (often like rotting food)
- Gurgling sounds from drains and pipes
- Overflowing or backflow into your property
If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to take action before the situation worsens. Contact our experts today to fix your blocked drains!
How To Unblock An Outdoor Drain: Step-By-Step Guide
1. Safety First
Before you begin, wear protective gloves and old clothes. Fatty blockages can be unpleasant and messy. Also, keep children and pets away from the area for hygiene and safety reasons.
2. Remove the Drain Cover
Use a screwdriver or crowbar to lift the drain cover carefully. Be cautious—drain covers can be heavy, and lifting them incorrectly could cause injury.
3. Inspect the Blockage
Shine a torch into the drain to see what's causing the issue. If it’s a thick white or yellowish mass, you’re most likely dealing with hardened fat.
4. Boiling Water and Washing-Up Liquid
One of the simplest ways to unblock outside drain blockages caused by fat is to pour boiling water mixed with a generous amount of washing-up liquid into the drain. The boiling water helps melt the fat, while the soap breaks it down, making it easier to flush away. Ensure to do this slowly to allow the heat and detergent time to work. Repeat the process several times for optimal results.
5. Use a Drain Rod
If boiling water doesn’t fully resolve the problem, it’s time to try something else. A drain rod is a flexible but sturdy tool designed to break up and push through stubborn blockages. Insert the rod into the drain and twist it clockwise. Continue pushing until you feel the blockage give way. Be patient and take breaks if needed.
6. Apply a Fat-Busting Drain Cleaner
There is specific drain cleaners designed to target grease and fat. Select one that’s eco-friendly and suitable for outdoor use with drains. You need to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Avoid overusing any chemical cleaners, as they can damage your pipes or the environment if misused.
If you aren’t confident that you can do it yourself, it’s wise to consult an expert who will manage the job professionally and without giving you any stress. Contact Maintracts Services Ltd today to request a quick quote for a reliable drainage service in London!
Grease Trap Maintenance: A Preventive Measure
If you frequently need to unblock outside drain systems due to fat buildup, consider installing a grease trap. This device intercepts FOG before it enters your drainage system, preventing future blockages and protecting your plumbing. They’re beneficial for larger households or commercial kitchens where food waste disposal is a frequent occurrence.
At Maintracts Services Ltd, we can help you choose, install, and maintain the right grease trap for your property. Our experienced engineers will assess your setup, recommend the perfect solution, and ensure everything is fitted correctly for long-term efficiency. We also offer regular maintenance and cleaning to keep your system working at its best.
Final Tips To Prevent Fat-Related Drain Blockages
Once you’ve managed to unblock outside drain blockages caused by fat, it’s essential to take steps to stop it from happening again. Fat, oil, and grease are among the most common substances that are responsible for blocked drains, particularly when combined with food scraps and other household waste.
Here’s how to keep your drains clear and flowing:
- Never pour fat or grease down the sink.
- Wipe plates and pans before washing to reduce the amount of residue going down the drain.
- Use strainers in your sinks to catch solid particles before they enter the system.
- Install a grease trap if you cook frequently or deal with large amounts of food waste.
- Keep gullies and drain covers clear of leaves, litter, and other outdoor debris to prevent surface water buildup.
A little prevention goes a long way in avoiding the hassle of future drain blockages.
Conclusion: It's Time To Say Goodbye To Blocked Drains
Blocked outdoor drains can quickly become a messy, smelly headache—but with the right approach, they don’t have to be. If you’ve fallen for any of the top 8 common drain cleaning myths, it’s time to get informed and take proper action. While DIY methods can sometimes work, persistent fat blockages or deeper issues in your drainage system often require expert attention to ensure a lasting solution.
At Maintracts Services Ltd, we make it easy to unblock outside drain problems quickly and professionally. Whether it’s stubborn fat buildup, blocked gullies, or a comprehensive system inspection, our experienced team is here to help. Call us on 020 8682 2244 today for a fast and trusted drainage service that keeps your property flowing smoothly all year round!
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes an outside drain to get blocked with grease or fat?
Pouring fat, oil, or grease down the kitchen sink can cause it to cool and harden in the external drain pipe. Over time, this combines with food waste and debris, leading to a stubborn blockage in your outside drain.
How do I unblock an outside drain with grease?
Start by pouring boiling water and dish soap into the drain to soften the fat. Then use a drain rod to break up the blockage. For tough blockages, it’s ideal to contact our professionals to safely and efficiently unblock outside drain issues within your budget.
Can I use boiling water or baking soda to clear fat from an outdoor drain?
Yes, boiling water and baking soda can help melt and loosen fat. Mix with vinegar for extra cleaning power. It works right for light build-up, not heavy blockages. For emergency drain unblocking service, contact us today!
What are the signs of a blocked outside drain?
Watch for slow-draining water, poor odour, gurgling noises, water pooling around the drain, or backflow into your home. These are all common signs that your drainage system may be blocked.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners on outdoor drains?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and may damage your pipes or harm the environment. Use them sparingly, and only when other methods don’t work.
How can I prevent grease build-up in my outside drain?
Avoid pouring fat or oil down the sink. Use sink strainers, wipe pans before washing, and consider installing a grease trap if you cook frequently. Routine maintenance of your drainage system also helps prevent build-up.
Can Maintracts help unblock a severely blocked outside drain?
Absolutely! Maintracts Services Ltd has expert engineers and the right tools to handle even the toughest drain blockages. We’ll get your system up and running again quickly. Book now for a quick and reliable drainage service in London!
What are the best tools for unblocking external drains at home?
A drain rod, pressure washer, or manual auger is a perfect tool for DIY drain unblocking. These are similar to the tools you'd use for other home plumbing jobs, such as when removing a radiator from the wall without draining the entire system — practical and effective when used correctly. For stubborn fat blockages, contact us today for professional help!