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Drainage advice and maintenance tips from Alternative Drainage

Advice Centre

Expert drainage advice you can trust

Practical tips from 30+ years in the trade

Learn how to prevent blocked drains, maintain your system, and know when to call the professionals — for homeowners and businesses across Yorkshire.

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Practical guidance

Drainage tips by topic

Straightforward advice to help you prevent problems, maintain your system, and respond calmly in an emergency.

Preventing Blocked Drains

Simple habits that keep your drains flowing and reduce the risk of blockages.

  • Never pour cooking oil or fat down drains
  • Use drain guards to catch hair and food particles
  • Flush drains regularly with hot water
  • Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items

Maintenance Tips

Proactive care that catches small issues before they become emergencies.

  • Regular CCTV surveys can identify problems early
  • Keep gutters and drains clear of leaves and debris
  • Check for slow drainage regularly
  • Schedule annual maintenance for commercial properties

Emergency Situations

What to do in the first few minutes when something goes wrong.

  • If water is backing up, turn off the water supply immediately
  • Don't use chemical drain cleaners on severe blockages
  • Call professionals for persistent or recurring issues
  • Keep our emergency number handy: 0800 098 2065

Commercial Drainage

Guidance for businesses managing higher-use drainage systems.

  • Regular maintenance prevents costly emergency callouts
  • Grease traps need regular emptying
  • High-traffic areas need more frequent attention
  • Consider scheduled maintenance contracts

Troubleshooting

Common drainage problems

Recognise the signs, understand likely causes, and know the right next step.

Slow Draining Sink

Common cause: Build-up of grease, hair, or food particles

What to do: Try a plunger or drain snake. If persistent, call professionals.

View Drain clearances

Blocked Toilet

Common cause: Non-flushable items or excessive toilet paper

What to do: Use a plunger. Never flush again if blocked. Call if not resolved quickly.

View Drain clearances

Foul Odours

Common cause: Blocked or damaged drain allowing sewer gases to escape

What to do: This requires professional inspection and repair.

View CCTV surveys

Water Backing Up

Common cause: Severe blockage or damaged pipe

What to do: Turn off the water supply and call emergency services immediately.

View Emergency drain clearing

Know when to act

When to call professionals

Some blockages can be managed at home — but certain signs mean you need expert help straight away.

While some minor blockages can be resolved with DIY methods, call professionals when:

  • The blockage persists after DIY attempts
  • Water is backing up into your property
  • You notice foul odours from drains
  • Multiple drains are blocked simultaneously
  • You suspect tree root intrusion
  • The problem keeps recurring

FAQs

Drainage advice — your questions answered

Answers to the questions we hear most from homeowners and businesses.

Need professional help?

Our expert team is available 24/7 to help with any drainage issue across Yorkshire.

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