Blocked Drain FAQ's in Cecil Hills
What causes blocked drains in Cecil Hills properties?
Blocked drains in established residential areas typically result from tree root intrusion in aging terracotta or clay pipes, grease and fat buildup in kitchen lines, or foreign objects like wet wipes and sanitary products flushed into the system. Root intrusion occurs when fine roots enter microscopic cracks and expand over time, trapping debris. Grease solidifies as it cools, narrowing the pipe diameter. We use CCTV check equipment to identify the cause before clearing the line.
How do you clear a drain blockage without damaging the pipes?
We use high-pressure jetting at 3,000 to 5,000 PSI to pulverise roots and scour grease from pipe walls, restoring near-full capacity without damaging the pipe structure. A CCTV drain camera inspection is performed first to identify the blockage type and location, which determines the clearing method. Mechanical tools are used for specific foreign objects where jetting alone isn't effective. The line is tested for flow after clearing to confirm the blockage is removed.
Do you charge a call-out fee for Cecil Hills?
Call-out fee status varies by service area. We recommend confirming the call-out fee when booking, as some Cecil Hills addresses may be covered under our no call-out fee policy. Our pricing model is fixed and upfront, the price is by the job, not by the hour, and there are no hidden costs. You decide once the scope is confirmed and the fixed price is provided.
How quickly can you respond to a drain blockage emergency?
We provide immediate dispatch for emergency drainage situations, with urgent jobs sent out first from our West Sydney hub. Response timing depends on current bookings and traffic conditions, but we provide ETA updates where possible so you know when the plumber will arrive. Same-day service is available for standard drainage enquiries, and we're available 24/7 for emergencies including sewage backups, overflowing toilets, and main sewer line blockages.
What's involved in a CCTV drain inspection?
A high-definition CCTV drain camera is inserted into the affected line to visually identify the blockage type, depth, and precise location within the property boundary. The camera footage shows whether the restriction is soft (grease, debris) or structural (roots, collapsed sections), which determines the clearing method. If the inspection reveals pipe damage, cracks, root penetration points, or joint separation, we explain the options for repair or relining and confirm scope before any additional work proceeds.
Can tree roots be removed permanently from sewer pipes?
High-pressure water jetting removes tree roots from the inside of the pipe, restoring flow and clearing the restriction. However, roots will regrow if the entry point (crack or joint separation) remains open. Trenchless pipe relining seals the entry point by creating a seamless "pipe-within-a-pipe," which prevents future root intrusion. If the pipe is structurally sound after clearing, we explain the options and you decide whether to proceed with relining or accept periodic maintenance.
What should I do if my toilet or sink is backing up?
Stop using the affected fixture immediately to prevent overflow and further backup. If the blockage is in the main sewer line, using other fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers) may cause sewage to back up at the lowest drain point. Contact a licensed and insured plumbing technician to assess and clear the blockage. We provide 24/7 emergency service for sewage backups and main line blockages, with immediate dispatch for urgent situations.
How often should drains be inspected and cleaned?
For most residential properties, an annual inspection and cleaning is sufficient to maintain clear drainage and identify early signs of root intrusion or pipe deterioration. Properties prone to frequent blockages, due to mature trees, older pipe materials, or heavy grease use, may benefit from more frequent maintenance. Regular professional inspections using CCTV drain cameras allow us to spot developing issues before they cause a full blockage, reducing the risk of emergency callouts.
Is pipe relining a permanent solution for damaged drains?
Trenchless drain relining creates a seamless, structurally independent liner inside the existing pipe, which is durable and resistant to root intrusion, corrosion, and joint separation. The resin-saturated liner is cured to form a "pipe-within-a-pipe" that functions as a permanent repair, provided the original pipe has not completely collapsed. Relining is effective for PVC, clay, cast iron, and concrete pipes, and is often the preferred solution for repairs beneath permanent structures like driveways, bathrooms, or established landscaping.
What's the difference between a blocked drain and a broken pipe?
A blocked drain restricts water flow due to an obstruction (roots, grease, foreign objects), but the pipe structure remains intact. A broken pipe involves structural damage, cracks, collapses, or joint separation, that allows soil, tree roots, or groundwater to enter the line. CCTV drain CCTV check identifies which issue is present. Blockages are cleared with jetting or mechanical tools, while broken pipes require repair or relining to restore structural integrity and prevent recurrence.
