How to unblock a soil pipe
Most properties have one or more, but to many people, a soil pipe is just one of a network of pipes that run through our homes and businesses.
However, like all pipes and parts of our plumbing systems, they play an important role in keeping our buildings clean, safe and running smoothly, so it’s certainly beneficial to be knowledgeable about what they are and what they do.
4.6 stars
view reviewsRapid response time
We'll be with you in 60 minutes or less!
Emergency assistance 24/7
We are open 7 days a week
Fully transparent cost breakdown
Our quotations are clear and concise.
Comprehensive aftercare
If your drain blocks again within 28 days, we'll unblock it, free of charge.
What is a soil pipe?
Soil pipes remove all waste from baths, sinks, and toilets, but not to be confused with toilet waste pipes. The waste is transported to an allocated drain, but the system works in tandem with vents in the roof of the building to ensure there are no unwanted fumes.
The water that leaves the aforementioned parts of a building is known as greywater or blackwater.
This water flows into a wastewater pipe, which allows all the gases to escape upwardly, while gravity ensures the water ends up in your septic tank or the sewer that your drains are connected to.
Also known as…
Soil waste pipes can also be known as the stench pipe, soil stack pipe, drain waste vent systems.
How do I know if I have a blocked soil pipe?
With normal household pipes, like the ones under your sink or the ones that run through your home, you can tell if they’re blocked because water will drain slowly and you may experience lower water pressure.
With soil vent pipes, you will also notice a slow-draining toilet, as well as some unpleasant odours emanating from the drains.
How do I fix a blocked soil pipe?
Your soil pipe is either going to be located above your roof, or on the side of your property. The older pipes, the ones that are made of cast iron, are the ones that tend to protrude from the roof.
More modern, plastic ones are often located on the side of the building, branching out in a tree-like shape.
Before we start, it’s important to note that the top of the gas vent can be become blocked by leaves and other debris. Where possible, ensure the cover is intact or any blockages are cleared, and you might be able to avoid the following unblocking process altogether.
DIY Steps – how to clear pipe blockage?
Fixing a blocked soil pipe requires a bit of bravery if you’re going to do it yourself, as the blockage can be quite unpleasant.
- The first thing to do is ensure you are properly equipped – protective clothing and a face mask are a must, so don’t start the task of unblocking until you’re appropriately attired.
- You may hit a stumbling block right away if your soil waste pipe is made of cast iron. The heavy-duty nature of this pipe means that it will be cleared using a vent above the roof, which will be difficult and possibly dangerous to access without the help of a professional engineer.
- If your soil waste pipe is a plastic one, as most modern ones are, then you are able to proceed with the DIY unblocking.
- The next step is to locate the ‘cleaning eye’. This is a large hinge that is found where the branch pipes join the main stack. Once you’ve found this, you can unscrew it and insert a drain auger – this can also be called a ‘snake tool’, ‘toilet jack’ or even an ‘electric eel’. This tool is used in any plumbing situation when a plunger can’t or won’t work.
- Pass the auger through the pipe until you reach the blockage. Once located, simply crank the handle – this releases a coiled wire. You can then push and pull the auger and the wire will hopefully remove the blockage, allowing any backed-up water to start flowing freely again.
- Once you’re sure it’s clear and the water is flowing, be sure to disinfect the stack thoroughly, using anti-bacterial spray and a hose, before putting it back together.
Speak to an expert today
Core Services
Find your local engineer today