A blocked drain is one of the most common plumbing problems. This guide helps you choose the right method and know when to call a plumber.
Identifying the Type of Blockage
Kitchen Sink
Causes: Solidified grease, food scraps Signs: Slow drainage, standing water, odours
Washbasin or Shower
Causes: Hair, soap, cosmetic residue Signs: Very slow drainage, water backing up
Toilet
Causes: Excess toilet paper, flushed items (wipes) Signs: Water not draining, overflow
DIY Solutions
Level 1: Gentle Methods
Boiling water (kitchen sink only):
- Effectiveness: 40-60% on light blockages
- Cost: Free
Bicarbonate of soda + vinegar:
- 100g bicarb + 200ml vinegar, leave for 30 minutes
- Effectiveness: 30-50%
- Cost: €2-3
Level 2: Mechanical Methods
Plunger:
- Effectiveness: 60-80%
- Cost: €5-15
Removing the trap:
- Effectiveness: 70-90% if blockage is in the trap
- Cost: Free
Level 3: Advanced Methods
Drain snake:
- Effectiveness: 70-85%
- Cost: €10-40
- Reach: 3-10 metres
Level 4: Chemical Products
- Effectiveness: 50-70%
- Cost: €5-15
- Precautions: Gloves, goggles, ventilation essential
When to Call a Plumber?
Emergency Situations
- Overflowing toilet
- Sewage backing up
- Multiple drains blocked
Emergency call-out cost: €150-350
Situations Requiring a Professional
- Recurring blockage
- DIY methods have failed
- Deep blockage (> 5 metres)
- Suspected tree root intrusion
Professional Interventions
High-pressure jetting:
- Cost: €150-400
- Effectiveness: 95-100%
CCTV drain inspection:
- Cost: €150-350
Comparison Chart
| Method | Cost | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling water | Free | 40-60% |
| Bicarb + vinegar | €2-3 | 30-50% |
| Plunger | €5-15 | 60-80% |
| Manual drain snake | €10-40 | 70-85% |
| Plumber unblocking | €100-300 | 90-100% |
| High-pressure jetting | €150-400 | 95-100% |
Prevention
In the Kitchen
- Never pour grease or oil down the sink
- Fit a sink strainer (€2-5)
- Pour boiling water down once a week
In the Bathroom
- Use a filter to catch hair
- Clean the trap every 2-3 months
Toilets
- Only flush toilet paper
- NEVER: wipes, sanitary products, cotton buds
Find a Plumber on tack.lu
More than 80 professional plumbers are listed on tack.lu in Luxembourg.
FAQ
Are chemical products dangerous?
Yes, to you (burns, fumes) and to your pipes (corrosion). Prefer mechanical methods.
Why do my drains keep blocking?
Common causes: bad habits, undersized pipes, insufficient gradient, old pipework.
How much does a plumber charge to unblock a drain?
Standard call-out: €100-200. High-pressure jetting: €150-400. Night/weekend emergency: €150-350.
