What to do after drain cleaner fails

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.

• Original product container and label
• Time and dose record
• Access to the manufacturer safety information
• Clear information for an attending engineer

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. 1

   Stop using the fixture

2. 2

   Keep the container and record what was used

3. 3

   Follow the label for a failed treatment or exposure

4. 4

   Do not add or mechanically agitate anything

5. 5

   Tell the drainage engineer before work begins