Effective Drain Choke Solutions

What is a Floor Trap Choke or Drain Choke?

• Water is pooling around the floor drain
• Persistent foul odours coming from the trap
• Gurgling sounds when water drains
• Slow or stagnant drainage

Causes of Floor Trap and Drain Chokes

Several everyday habits and conditions can lead to a floor trap choke or drain choke in Singapore households. The most common causes include:

Hair and Soap Residue

Hair is one of the most common culprits in bathroom floor traps. When mixed with soap scum and shampoo residue, it clumps together and gradually blocks water from flowing. Over time, this creates stubborn choke points that are difficult to remove without professional tools.

Grease and Oil 

In kitchen drains, grease and cooking oil solidify as they cool, sticking to the inner walls of pipes. Layer by layer, they narrow the pipe opening and cause slow drainage. This type of blockage is especially tough to clear without high-pressure equipment.

Food Waste

Tiny food particles that slip through sink strainers may not seem harmful at first. However, when combined with grease and other debris, they can accumulate and form solid blockages. This often leads to foul odours and recurring floor trap chokes.

Foreign Objects 

Items like tissues, wet wipes, sanitary products, and cotton buds do not dissolve in water. Once flushed or washed down, they get stuck inside the trap or further down the pipe. These blockages are usually severe and often require immediate plumbing intervention.

Debris and Dirt 

Every day washing activities can introduce dust, sand, and mud into floor traps. Over time, these heavy particles settle at the bottom of the drain, reducing water flow. Without regular cleaning, the accumulation eventually results in a full choke.

Understanding the causes of drain and floor trap chokes makes it easier for homeowners to take preventive steps such as using drain strainers or avoiding grease disposal in sinks.

How to Fix a Floor Trap Choke or Drain Choke

When dealing with a floor trap choke, many homeowners try simple DIY methods before calling a plumber. Here are some common ways to fix a floor trap choke:

• Use a Plunger – Applying firm pressure with a plunger can sometimes dislodge small blockages and restore water flow.
• Flush with Hot Water – Pouring boiling water into the drain may help break down grease or soap build-up.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution – A natural cleaning method that can loosen light debris and reduce odours.
• Manual Removal – For visible clogs, such as hair or dirt trapped near the surface, carefully removing them by hand or with a hook can provide temporary relief.
• Call for a Professional Plumber – If the choke is severe, persistent, or located deeper in the pipes, a licensed plumber is the safest and most effective solution. HDB Plumbers use specialised tools like drain snakes or high-pressure jetting machines to clear blockages thoroughly without damaging your drainage system.

How to Prevent Drain and Floor Trap Chokes

Drain chokes are a common problem in households across Singapore. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to help prevent drain chokes from occurring in your home.

1. Keep your drains clean and clear of debris

One of the best ways to prevent drain chokes is to keep your drains clean and clear of debris. This can be done by regularly cleaning your gutters and downpipes and using a drain cover or strainer to catch leaves and other larger items before they have a chance to enter your pipes.

2. Avoid pouring grease and oil down the drain

Grease and oil can quickly build up in your pipes and lead to a drain choke. To avoid this, always pour used grease and oil into a container (like an old coffee tin) before disposing of it in the rubbish.

3. Be careful what you flush down the toilet

Your toilet is not a rubbish bin! Flushing things like nappies, sanitary products, paper towels, and cigarette butts can cause blockages and eventually lead to a drain choke. Only flush human waste and toilet paper down the loo.

However, if you’re facing a drain choke or floor trap choke, remember that we offer emergency plumbing services to quickly and efficiently clear any blockages.

DIY vs Professional Floor Trap Choke Clearing

• Our experienced team delivers prompt and effective solutions
• We use the latest tools and equipment to clear your drain clogs thoroughly.
• We provide a workmanship warranty for peace of mind.
• We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Singapore.
• Our PUB-certified plumbers ensure reliable and reputable service every time.

Do You Have A Drain Choke / Floor Trap Choke, And It's Causing Water To Leak?

A drain choke/floor trap choke can cause a lot of damage in a short period, so it's essential to fix the problem as soon as possible. 

We offer emergency services to fix your drain choke/floor trap choke quickly and efficiently. We understand the urgency of the situation and will do everything we can to fix the problem as soon as possible.

Call us now at +65 82998266, and we'll be happy to help you.