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How to Rod a Drain
This article aims to explain how to rod and clear drains. We will highlight all of the tools, materials, and safety equipment needed to complete this type of job, and we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to clear your drain using a rod.
Table of Contents
What Tools and Materials Do I Need to Rod and Clear Drains?
To rod and clear a drain yourself, you will need a few key materials. These items allow you to reach and remove blockages effectively, making the job much easier and safer. However, for more serious blockages, it's a good idea to hire the help of a local drainage expert.
- Drain rod (with extendable pieces)
- Worm end for the drain rod
- Plunger end for the drain rod
What Safety Equipment Do I Need to Rod and Clear Drains?
It is recommended that, to clean and unclog drains safely, the following protective clothing should be worn at all times:
- Eye protection
- Overalls
- Gloves
- Face mask
How to Prepare for Rodding and Clearing Drains
Here is what needs to be done to prepare for rodding and clearing drains:
Put on Safety Equipment
The first thing you need to do when rodding and clearing a drain is to put on your safety equipment. Drain clearing can be quite a messy and unpleasant job, so it's crucial that you protect yourself from any spray or splashes that may occur.
Screw Drain Rod Parts Together
Drain rods come in two main types (universal joint rods and lockfast rods). You will also need to ensure that they are appropriately assembled before inserting them into the drain.
Most rods will come in separate pieces that easily fit together. You should only add two or three pieces of drain rod and then continue screwing them in as the job goes along to avoid having a long rod flying around in the early stages.
How to Rod and Clear Drains Yourself — Step-by-Step Guide
Below is a list of steps on how to clear blocked drains:
Step 1
The first step when it comes to clearing a drain with a rod is to put on your safety gear. It is recommended that you wear a face covering, gloves, eye protection, and overalls.
Step 2
Remove the inspection chamber cover so that you can get to the drain. Ensure that the drain rod components are screwed together before you insert it into the drain, including the worm at the top. You only need to screw 2 or 3 pieces of rod together, to begin with. The rest will be added as the job goes on.
Step 3
Locate the pipe and insert the drain rod into the pipe as far as you can. Once it's gone through as far as you can reach, you then need to screw on the next part of the rod to make it longer so that you can push it in even further.
Starting with the one nearest the house, lift the inspection chamber covers one at a time until you find the first one that looks clear. The blockage will be between this chamber and the full one before it, so rod back up from the clear chamber towards the house.
Cover the outlet of the clear chamber so the debris you clear doesn't block the next stretch of the drain. Turn the rods clockwise as you work, avoiding forcing them through tight bends.
Step 4
Repeat the previous steps as many times as necessary until you feel like you may have reached the blockage.
Step 5
Wiggle the rod in and out of the drain slightly to see if it loosens any of the blockages. Keep an eye on the water level to see if it starts to drop at all.
Step 6
When the water level drops, remove the rod and switch the worm end for a plunger end instead.
Step 7
Re-insert the rod and continue to pump in and out until the blockage is completely removed and the water level drops completely.
Step 8
Once you're satisfied that the blockage has been cleared and the water level is correct, flush the drain with clean water, then remove the rod and replace the inspection chamber cover to complete the job.
FAQs
How Can You Prevent Drains from Getting Blocked?
To prevent blocked drains, use a plug screen and avoid pouring grease, oil, or debris down the drain. You should use the toilet to only flush toilet roll and human waste, and use soda crystals and hot water to clean bath and sink waste pipes monthly.
What Are the Signs That I Have a Blocked Drain?
The most prominent signs that your drain is blocked are water draining slower than usual or not at all, and water pooling when you run a tap or rising when you flush the toilet. Blocked drains can also cause an unpleasant smell which is a good early sign that you have a blockage.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Blocked Drains?
The most common causes of blocked drains are usually wet wipes and other bathroom products like nappies and cotton wool, hair, foreign objects such as toys or mobile phones, grease and fat, or leaves and plant waste.
How Often Should I Rod and Clear My Drains?
You should only rod your drains when you notice slow drainage, frequent blockages, or unpleasant smells.
