What is the difference between drain unblocking and drain cleaning?

Drain unblocking is the process of clearing a specific blockage that is preventing water from flowing. Drain cleaning is a more thorough process that removes build-up from the full length of the pipe to improve flow and prevent future blockages. Jetting effectively does both at the same time, which is why it is the preferred method for most professional jobs.

Can I unblock a drain myself with shop-bought products?

Supermarket drain unblockers can help with minor clogs close to the plug hole, but they rarely clear deeper blockages. They can also damage older pipework if used repeatedly. For a blockage that a plunger or shop product cannot shift, a professional drain engineer with the right equipment will resolve the problem permanently.

How can I prevent my drains from blocking?

Avoid pouring cooking oil or fat down the sink, use drain guards over plug holes to catch hair and debris, and never flush wet wipes or cotton buds. Running hot water through your kitchen sink after washing up helps keep grease moving through the system rather than solidifying in the pipes.

Drain Unblocking in Edinburgh

A blocked drain is unpleasant, inconvenient, and a potential health hazard if left unresolved. OnCall Home Repairs connects you with experienced drain engineers in Edinburgh who use professional-grade equipment — including high-pressure water jetting and manual drain rods — to clear blockages quickly and thoroughly. We cover internal and external drains for both homes and businesses.

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Why Drains Block and What We Do About It

Most drain blockages in Edinburgh homes are caused by a gradual build-up of grease, food waste, hair, soap residue, and wet wipes in the pipework. Over time, this accumulation narrows the pipe bore until water can no longer flow through. External drains can also block due to leaf debris, tree root intrusion, or ground movement that displaces pipe joints.

Our drain engineers arrive with the equipment needed to deal with both straightforward and stubborn blockages. For minor clogs, manual rodding is often sufficient. For more severe blockages — particularly those deep in the drainage system or caused by solidified grease — high-pressure water jetting blasts the obstruction clear and scours the pipe walls to prevent rapid re-blocking.

If the blockage keeps coming back or the drain shows signs of structural damage, the engineer may recommend a CCTV drain survey to investigate further. For blocked drain emergencies that cannot wait, our network is available for same-day attendance across the Edinburgh area.

How Drain Unblocking Works

Initial Assessment

The engineer identifies which drain is affected, checks access points, and determines the likely location and cause of the blockage. They may run water through the system to gauge how severe the restriction is before selecting the right clearing method.

Clearing the Blockage

Depending on the nature of the blockage, the engineer uses manual drain rods, a mechanical auger, or a high-pressure jetting unit. Jetting is particularly effective for grease build-up and compacted debris, as it clears the full diameter of the pipe rather than just punching a hole through the centre.

Flow Test and Inspection

After clearing, the engineer runs water through the drain to confirm full flow has been restored. They inspect the drain opening for signs of damage, root intrusion, or collapse that could cause future blockages. If further investigation is needed, a CCTV survey is recommended.

Related Drain Services

Blocked Drains CCTV Drain Survey Toilet Unblocking

Drain Unblocking Across Edinburgh

Our drain engineers cover Edinburgh, Leith, Morningside, Stockbridge, Gorgie, Corstorphine, and the surrounding area. External drain blockages are common after heavy rainfall and during autumn when leaves enter the drainage system. If you need urgent drain clearing, call us and we will arrange same-day attendance where possible.

EdinburghLeithMorningsideStockbridgeBruntsfieldMarchmontPortobelloCorstorphineGorgieDalryCraigmillarLibertonNewingtonHaymarketDean VillageTrinity

Frequently Asked Questions

Drain Blocked? Get It Cleared Today.

A blocked drain only gets worse the longer you leave it. Call OnCall Home Repairs and we will connect you with a drain engineer in Edinburgh who can clear the blockage and restore full flow.

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