My washing machine outlet is blocked . I have cleared the u bend inside and disconnected it , but the problem is further down. The pipe goes out of the house and runs along my external kitchen wall , the problem is that it is at a sharp angle . I have tried putting the hose pipe down it , but it wont go round the bend - Any Ideas please ?

Jan, June 2008

use a bendy metal drain unblocker. you can get them from B&Q. or if no better get new pipe and re-do.

vinny, June 2008

A blockage in an outside drain pipe? Some systems can be taken apart for cleaning, others are glued together. (Solvent weld). You can buy chemical cleaners like Mr Muscle plug hole unblocker or you can use flexible metal unblockers that can turn round bends. Can you use the hose pipe from both directions? Try twisting the bend that is blocked - it may just come away from the straight pipe if its not the glued type.

John, June 2008