Before you start
Confirm that this method matches both the fixture and likely obstruction. Prepare for spills, protect the surrounding surface and keep the work area away from children and pets.
- Locking or securely threaded rods
- Correct plunger or scraper head
- Waterproof PPE
- A plan of the run and retrieval method
What a successful result looks like
Normal flow should return without leakage, gurgling or backup elsewhere. If the result is partial or short-lived, stop repeating the same process and investigate farther along the line.
- Stable water level
- Normal drainage speed
- No leak at disturbed joints
- No symptom in a connected fixture
Step-by-step approach
- 1
Stop connected water use
- 2
Open only a safe accessible point
- 3
Connect and count each rod
- 4
Turn only in the connection-safe direction while advancing
- 5
Retrieve every rod and verify flow
Important safety point
Never enter a drain chamber. Rods can unscrew, jam or damage pipework if used blindly or turned the wrong way.