Drain unblocking and drainage in Torrevieja
A drain that will not empty, an overflowing toilet or a sewer smell can all be fixed. I clear the affected section and check traps, downpipes and manholes so the problem does not come back.
What I do
A blockage in one fitting is cleared at that point, but when it keeps coming back or affects several drains at once, the problem is usually further down: in the main pipe, the downpipe or the manhole. I check the whole run before calling it fixed.
Sink and basin unblocking
Kitchen and bathroom blockages usually come from grease, food scraps, hair or soap that builds up in the trap or the pipe. I start at the nearest point so I do not carry out unnecessary building work.
If the blockage keeps coming back, I check whether the problem is in the main run or in a poor fall. That way I avoid unblocking every few months without fixing the cause.
Shower and bath unblocking
In a shower the blockage is almost always in the trap or the grating, where hair and soap residue collect. In a bath it is usually in the waste or the overflow. I check each part in turn.
If the drain blocks every time it is used, there may be too little fall or a section that is undersized. I explain the cause and what would be needed to solve it properly.
Toilet unblocking
Toilet blockages come from wet wipes, too much paper, objects that have been dropped in or too little fall in the stack. Before unblocking I check that the toilet itself is not cracked or damaged.
If the blockage keeps coming back, I check the stack and the outlet run to see whether there is a structural cause. I explain what can be done to stop it recurring.
Drain pipe unblocking and cleaning
Drain pipes collect grease, scale and debris that stick to the walls of the pipe and narrow the passage of water. Over time any discharge becomes slow and the blockage keeps coming back.
I use mechanical cleaning suited to the diameter and material of each pipe. If there is damaged or reverse-fall section, I tell you so the repair can be planned with a separate quote.
Trap, valve and drain repair and replacement
The trap holds back the smells from the sewer, so when it fails you notice quickly. Leaks can appear at the joints, plastic can crack, or debris can block the flow of water.
I check the whole set: trap, drain valve, overflow and connections. I replace only what is damaged and the quote lists every part.
Downpipe repair and replacement
A cracked downpipe or one with worn joints lets water escape into the wall or the facade. Because it runs through several floors, the damage can be far from where the stain shows.
I first find the damaged section. Then I explain whether repairing the joint is enough or whether the whole section should be replaced, and give you the quote with any building work.
Drainage network installation and repair
A poorly resolved network builds up sediment, blocks and can let smells or water escape into the ground. Before touching anything I check the route, the falls and the condition of the manholes.
I install the new network with the correct falls and joints, or repair the damaged section. You get the quote by section so you know what is being done and why.
Manhole cleaning and repair
Manholes collect sand, grease and plant matter that slow the water. If one is close to the home, smells can come back through drains and vents. I start by cleaning it thoroughly.
I check the inside, the walls and the base. If there are cracks, broken covers or leaks, I explain what needs repairing and quote the materials required.
Solving bad smells from drains
Often the smell comes from a trap that has dried out because the drain is rarely used, or from a trap full of residue. Sometimes the cause is in the network or in a full manhole.
Before proposing a solution I check the fitting, the trap, the vent and the outlet run. I explain the cause and what needs changing, without carrying out unnecessary building work.
When it is worth calling me
- Water takes a long time to leave the sink or basin
- Water stays on the shower tray or in the bottom of the bath
- The toilet does not flush or water rises when it is used
- Several drains in the home run slowly at the same time
- A leak under the basin, the sink or the shower
- Damp stains on the facade or on several floors at once
How I fix it
- 1
I check which drains are affected to find where the blockage is.
- 2
I clear and clean the section with the right equipment.
- 3
I check that everything drains properly and explain how to stop it happening again.
Frequently asked questions
Do you unblock without chemicals?
Yes. I use mechanical methods, which are safer for the pipe and leave no harsh residue in the drain.
How do I stop the shower blocking again?
A hair filter on the grating and an occasional clean of the trap reduce blockages a lot. I explain how to do it in your case.
Can I use a home drain cleaner?
Carefully, but harsh products can damage the pipe. If the blockage does not clear the first time, it is better to call me.
How often should drain pipes be cleaned?
It depends on use and age. In homes with frequent blockages, regular cleaning prevents surprises. I give you a specific recommendation.
Why does the drain smell even when I clean it often?
There is usually a worn trap, a joint that is not sealing or residue trapped inside. I check it and tell you what the cause is.
Does a broken downpipe affect neighbours?
Yes, it can seep into other homes or the facade. That is why it is best to act early and coordinate the repair with the community.
What fall should a drainage network have?
It depends on the diameter and the section. The correct fall prevents blockages. I calculate it for each installation and explain it to you.
How often should a manhole be cleaned?
It depends on use. Those that take kitchen grease need more frequent checks. I give you a plan based on your case.
Other services you may need
Got this problem?
José takes your call. Call or write to me and I will tell you what it could be, what it would roughly involve and when I can come.