Blocked Drain FAQ's in East Hills
What are the common causes of blocked drains in East Hills?
Blocked drains in East Hills are often caused by tree root intrusion into older clay or terracotta pipes, grease and fat solidifying in kitchen lines, and debris accumulation from hair, soap scum, and foreign objects flushed down the toilet. Properties built in the 1960s and 1970s expansion periods typically have clay pipes that are vulnerable to root intrusion. Over time, these materials accumulate and obstruct water flow, leading to slow drainage, gurgling sounds, and unpleasant odours.
How can I prevent my drains from getting blocked?
Preventing blocked drains is straightforward with a few simple practices. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Use drain guards to catch hair and food particles in showers and sinks. Regularly pour boiling water down your drains to dissolve grease and soap scum. Dispose of cooking oil and fat in the bin, not the sink. If you have large trees near your property, consider periodic CCTV inspections to check for root intrusion before it becomes a blockage.
What should I do immediately if my drain is blocked?
If you suspect a blocked drain, try using a plunger first; create a tight seal and plunge vigorously to dislodge the restriction. If that doesn't work, avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can corrode pipes over time. For persistent blockages, it's safer to call a licensed drainage plumber in East Hills like Fixed Today Plumbing. We'll use high-pressure jetting or CCTV cameras to locate and clear the blockage without damaging your pipes.
Can chemical drain cleaners damage my pipes?
Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can corrode your pipes over time, especially if used repeatedly. They may provide a temporary fix for minor blockages, but they often don't address the root cause and can lead to more significant problems down the line. For stubborn blockages, it's safer and more effective to rely on professional plumbing services that use high-pressure water jetting and CCTV diagnostics to clear the restriction and confirm the pipe condition.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains at East Hills properties?
Our plumbers use high-pressure water jetting (hydro-jetting) to blast away debris, grease, and tree roots from pipe walls. We fire water at thousands of PSI through specialised nozzles to pulverise obstructions and restore near-full pipe capacity. We also use high-definition CCTV inspection equipment to locate the exact restriction, confirm the pipe material and condition, and identify any structural damage. If inspection reveals damage, we explain the options, such as no-dig pipe relining, and confirm scope before proceeding.
What are the signs of a drain blockage?
Slow-draining water, gurgling sounds from drains or toilets, and unpleasant odours are typical early signs of a blocked drain. Water backing up in sinks, showers, or toilets indicates a more severe blockage. You may also notice multiple fixtures draining slowly at the same time, which suggests a restriction in the main sewer line. If you notice any of these signs, it's worth addressing the issue promptly to prevent water damage, backflow, and more costly repairs.
Can blocked drains cause damage to my East Hills property?
Yes, blocked drains can cause significant damage if left unresolved. Water can back up and overflow, leading to water damage, mould growth, and structural issues in walls and floors. In severe cases, blocked drains can cause pipes to burst under pressure, resulting in flooding and costly repairs. Addressing blockages early, by arranging an assessment when you notice slow drainage or odours, can save you from these potential headaches and protect your property.
How often should I have my drains inspected and cleaned in East Hills?
For most homes, an annual CCTV drain inspection and high-pressure cleaning are sufficient to maintain a healthy plumbing system. However, if your property is prone to blockages, due to large trees, older clay pipes, or heavy kitchen use, you may benefit from more frequent maintenance. Regular professional check-ups ensure your drains remain clear, identify early signs of root intrusion or pipe deterioration, and prevent urgent callouts.
Do you charge a call-out fee for drain blockage jobs in East Hills?
Call-out fee status varies by suburb and job type. When you call to book, confirm the call-out fee status for your East Hills property. We provide a fixed price quote before work starts, so you'll know the total cost upfront. The price quoted is the price paid, with no hidden fees or surprise charges at the end. If the blockage is more complex than expected, we explain the options and confirm scope before proceeding with any additional work.
How quickly can Fixed Today Plumbing reach East Hills for an emergency?
We dispatch from localised hubs across Sydney, including West Sydney, to reach East Hills properties quickly. Urgent jobs are sent out first, with the nearest available technician allocated from our dispatch points. An ETA is provided when you book, and we keep you updated if traffic or current bookings affect arrival timing. For 24/7 emergency drainage services, call us anytime, we're ready to respond fast and make your plumbing safe.
