There are several clues to a blocked soil pipe problem, such as foul smells or a toilet that drains slowly.
Unblocking a soil pipe is an unpleasant job and it's worth hiring a professional drain cleaning company. If, however, you want to tackle the problem yourself, you should kit yourself out with protective clothing and a face mask.
How to clear the blockage
If the pipe is made of cast iron, it will almost certainly be cleared via the vent above the roof.
A modern plastic stack is easier to clean as there should be a large hinged cleaning eye, or other access plugs, wherever branch pipes join the stack.
- Unscrew and open the cleaning eye to insert the drain auger.
- Pass the auger into the stack until you locate the obstruction then crank the handle to engage it.
- Push or pull the auger until you can dislodge the obstruction to clear the trapped water.
- Hose out the stack.
- Wash and disinfect the surrounding area.
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