Stubborn Blockage
Stubborn Blockage | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Harrogate
When a stubborn blockage turns your sink, shower, or street into a mini-lake, HEP swoops in with the quickest, cleanest solution in Harrogate. Our local engineers arrive fully equipped—high-pressure jetters, CCTV cameras, and decades of know-how—to restore full flow before the kettle boils. We treat every property with the same care we give our own, wiping boots, laying mats, and tidying up so the only evidence of our visit is water rushing effortlessly away.
Whether you’re a homeowner nursing a sluggish gully or a business facing a critical shutdown, our 24/7 emergency team makes “drain opening” feel almost effortless. Transparent pricing, friendly advice, and a workmanship guarantee back every call-out, so you can flush, shower, and carry on with confidence—knowing HEP has your pipes, and your day, running smoothly again.
FAQs
What are the typical signs that I have a stubborn blockage in my drains?
Warning signs include water draining very slowly from sinks, baths, or toilets; gurgling sounds coming from pipework; unpleasant odours near drains; rising water levels in toilets; and, in severe cases, water backing up into appliances or outside gullies. If you notice any of these issues persisting despite using household remedies, it’s likely you have a stubborn blockage that needs professional attention.
What specialist methods do you use to clear severe drain blockages in Harrogate?
Our engineers carry fully equipped vans and select the safest, most effective technique for each job. Common methods include high-pressure water jetting to blast away grease, roots, and scale; mechanical rodding for solid obstructions; electro-mechanical cleaning for awkward internal pipework; and CCTV surveys to locate and identify hidden problems. We always start with the least invasive option and work up to heavier tools only if necessary.
Do you offer a 24/7 emergency drain-unblocking service, and how quickly can you arrive?
Yes. Stubborn blockages don’t keep office hours, so our Harrogate team operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In emergencies we aim to be on site within 60–90 minutes of your call, traffic permitting. All calls are taken by trained staff—never a call centre—so we can dispatch the closest available engineer right away.
Will you have to dig up my garden or driveway to fix the blockage?
In most cases, no. Over 90% of blockages are cleared from the surface using jetting or rodding equipment via existing manholes or access points. Excavation is only considered if the pipe is collapsed, severely displaced, or incorrectly installed. Even then, we explore no-dig options such as pipe relining before recommending traditional excavation, and we always explain the reasoning and costs before any disruptive work begins.
How much does drain unblocking cost, and do you provide free quotes?
We offer transparent, fixed-price quotes with no hidden extras. Basic domestic unblocks start from £XX (weekday) and £XX (out of hours), including up to one hour on site. Before work begins, the engineer will confirm the price based on access, pipe size, and the severity of the blockage. If further work—such as CCTV inspection or repairs—is required, we provide a free, itemised quote so you can decide how to proceed.
What steps can I take to prevent future blockages once my drains are clear?
To keep drains flowing freely, avoid pouring fats, oils, and food scraps down kitchen sinks; fit hair traps in shower and bath wastes; flush only toilet paper—no wipes, cotton buds, or sanitary products; use enzyme-based drain cleaners monthly to break down grease; and schedule a preventive CCTV drain survey every few years if your property has mature trees or an older clay system. Our engineer will leave you with tailored maintenance tips before leaving your property.