Blocked Drain FAQ's in Dee Why
What causes blocked drains in Dee Why properties?
Blocked drains in Dee Why commonly result from grease buildup in kitchen lines, tree root intrusion in older terracotta sewer pipes, hair and soap scum in bathroom traps, and foreign objects flushed down toilets. Coastal properties with mature landscaping often see accelerated root activity and pipe corrosion from salt air. We use a CCTV camera to confirm the cause onsite before quoting clearing or repair work.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We insert a CCTV camera to identify the blockage type and check for structural damage, then use high-pressure water jetting to scour grease and roots or mechanical retrieval for solid objects. The method is chosen based on what the camera shows, and the clearing process is verified with a second camera pass. If the inspection reveals pipe damage, we explain repair options and quote separately before proceeding.
What should I do if a drain is backing up right now?
Stop using the affected fixture to prevent overflow, and call us on 1800 349 338. We dispatch urgent jobs first from local hubs and provide an ETA when you book. If there's an immediate safety risk, we can provide brief guidance to reduce harm while the plumber is on the way. We don't ask you to diagnose the fault; that's confirmed onsite with a camera.
How much does it cost to clear a blocked drain in Dee Why?
The cost depends on the location of the blockage, the clearing method required, and whether any structural repair is needed. We provide a fixed-price quote before starting work, based on confirmed scope from the CCTV inspection. The price is by the job, not by the hour, and includes all labour and standard materials. Confirm the call-out fee status when booking.
Can tree roots block drains in Dee Why?
Yes. Tree roots seeking moisture can enter microscopic cracks in older terracotta or clay sewer pipes, then expand over time and trap debris. This is common in Dee Why properties built during the 1960s and 1970s, when terracotta pipes were standard. We clear the root mass with high-pressure jetting, then often recommend pipe relining to seal the cracks and prevent regrowth.
What is CCTV drain inspection and why is it used?
A CCTV drain inspection uses a high-definition camera inserted into the pipe to visually identify the blockage type, location, and any structural damage. This allows us to choose the correct clearing method and avoid unnecessary digging or guesswork. You'll see the footage if helpful, and we run the camera through again after clearing to verify the line is restored.
How long does it take to clear a clogged drain?
Most accessible blockages are cleared within one to two hours, including camera inspection, jetting or retrieval, and verification. Timing depends on the blockage location, the clearing method required, and whether any structural damage is found. If the camera shows pipe damage, we explain the repair options and confirm scope before proceeding, which may extend the job timeline.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe to use?
Chemical drain cleaners can corrode pipes over time and are often ineffective against root intrusion or solid obstructions. They also create a hazardous environment for plumbers if professional clearing is needed later. For stubborn blockages, high-pressure water jetting or mechanical clearing is safer and more effective, and doesn't risk damaging your pipework.
What is pipe relining and when is it recommended?
Pipe relining inserts a resin-saturated liner into a damaged pipe, which is then cured to form a seamless, structurally independent pipe-within-a-pipe. It's recommended when the camera inspection shows cracks, root intrusion points, or corrosion, and the original pipe has not completely collapsed. Relining avoids excavation and is often used beneath driveways, bathrooms, or established landscaping to reduce disruption.
Do you provide same-day service for blocked drains in Dee Why?
Yes. Same-day service is available for standard enquiries, and urgent jobs are dispatched first from local hubs including West Sydney. We provide an ETA when you book and update you if timing changes. All attending plumbers are licensed in NSW, arrive in uniform, and carry CCTV cameras and high-pressure jetters onboard for first-visit resolution where access and parts allow.
