Blocked drains are one of those household annoyances that always seem to strike at the worst time—usually when you’re in a hurry or expecting guests. If your sink is slow to drain, your shower is backing up, or there’s an unpleasant smell coming from the pipes, you’re dealing with a blockage. But why does it keep happening? And more importantly, how can you fix it?
Here’s what might be causing your blocked drains and some handy solutions to keep things flowing smoothly. And if the problem persists, a professional plumber from ServiceSeeking.com.au can get things sorted in no time.
One of the most common causes of blocked drains—especially in showers and bathroom sinks—is hair combined with soap scum. Over time, these bind together to form a sticky mass that slows water flow and eventually causes a full blockage.
How to fix it: Use a drain snake or plunger to pull out hair clumps. Installing a drain strainer can also help prevent hair from going down in the first place. Regularly flushing your drains with boiling water and vinegar can help break down soap scum before it becomes a problem.
In the kitchen, fats, oils, and food scraps are the usual culprits of a clogged drain. Grease might go down as a liquid, but once it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the pipes, gradually causing a blockage.
How to fix it: Never pour grease or oil down the sink. Instead, collect it in a container and throw it in the bin. Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps, and flush your kitchen drain with hot water and dish soap regularly to break down any greasy residue.
Toilets are designed for human waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Wet wipes, cotton buds, sanitary products, and even so-called ‘flushable’ wipes can quickly clog pipes and cause major plumbing issues.
How to fix it: Stick to flushing only toilet paper and waste. If a blockage has already formed, a plunger might do the trick. For tougher clogs, a plumber’s auger (also called a drain snake) can help break up the obstruction.
If your blockage is more serious and keeps coming back despite your best efforts, tree roots could be the culprit. Over time, tree roots can grow into underground pipes, causing cracks, leaks, and serious blockages.
How to fix it: Tree root intrusions require professional plumbing solutions, including hydro-jetting or pipe relining. If you suspect tree roots are causing recurring drain issues, it’s best to call in an expert.
Sometimes, blockages occur due to poorly installed pipes, misaligned joints, or old, corroded pipes. These issues can create weak spots where debris collects, leading to frequent clogs.
How to fix it: If you live in an older home or suspect poor plumbing installation, it’s worth having a professional assess your pipes. A plumber can inspect your drainage system and recommend long-term fixes to prevent ongoing issues.
While some minor drain blockages can be tackled with a plunger and a bit of elbow grease, persistent or severe blockages often need professional intervention. If your drains keep backing up, water is draining slower than usual, or you notice foul odours, it’s time to bring in a plumber.
Find a trusted local plumber on ServiceSeeking.com.au and get free quotes in minutes. Don’t wait until a minor blockage turns into a plumbing disaster—get your drains sorted today!