Blocked Drain FAQs in Alexandria
What are the common causes of blocked drains?
Blocked drains in Alexandria are commonly caused by build-up inside the pipe, such as grease from kitchens, hair and soap in showers, and products that should not be flushed. Tree roots can also enter small cracks or joints and trap debris. The exact cause matters because clearing the symptom without fixing the source often leads to repeat blockages.
How can I prevent my drains from getting blocked?
You can reduce blocked drain risk by keeping grease and food scraps out of sinks, using a drain screen for hair, and only flushing human waste and toilet paper. Small habits help because build-up happens slowly. Prevention is not a guarantee though, especially if a line is damaged, so repeat slow drains should be inspected rather than treated repeatedly.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
If a drain is blocked in Alexandria, stop using water at that fixture first, since extra flow can trigger an overflow. You can try a plunger on a sink, shower, or toilet, but avoid forcing it if the water level rises quickly. If multiple fixtures are affected or sewage is present, a licensed drainage plumber should assess it.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my drains?
Chemical drain cleaners can sometimes shift minor build-up, but they can also damage pipe materials and fittings, especially if used repeatedly or left sitting in the line. They also make professional clearing harder and risk splashes during inspection. If the blockage is recurring, slow across multiple fixtures, or causing overflow, a mechanical or water-jet clearance is safer.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains?
Plumbers typically clear blocked drains by first confirming where the restriction is, often with a CCTV drain camera when the cause is not obvious. The blockage is then removed using methods such as high-pressure water jetting or mechanical clearing, depending on what is in the line. After clearing, flow is checked to confirm the line is draining normally again.
What are the signs of a blocked drain?
Signs of a blocked drain include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, bad odours, and water backing up in sinks, showers, or toilets. A key warning sign is when one fixture causes another to gurgle or fill, which can indicate a blockage in a shared section of pipe. If sewage appears, it should be treated as urgent.
Can blocked drains cause damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains can damage an Alexandria property because wastewater can overflow into bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. That can lead to water damage, mould growth, and damage to cabinetry or flooring. Blockages also increase pressure in the line, which can worsen existing cracks or weak joints. Early inspection usually reduces how much repair work is needed.
How often should I have my drains inspected and cleaned?
There is no single schedule that suits every Alexandria property, because usage and pipe condition vary. A drain inspection is most useful when there are repeat blockages, slow drains that keep returning, or signs of tree root intrusion. If a camera inspection shows the line is in good condition, ongoing cleaning may not be necessary until symptoms return.
