Blocked Drain FAQ's in Glendenning
What are the common causes of blocked drains in Glendenning?
Blocked drains in Glendenning are typically caused by grease and fat solidifying in kitchen pipes, hair and soap scum accumulating in bathroom traps, foreign objects flushed down toilets, and tree roots entering cracks in older clay or terracotta sewer lines. Properties built during the 1970s and 1980s often have established trees with roots seeking moisture in ageing underground pipes, which is a common pattern we see during CCTV inspections.
How can I prevent my drains from getting blocked?
Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste down toilets. Use drain guards to catch hair and food particles in sinks and showers. Dispose of cooking oil and fat in the bin, not down the sink, as they solidify and narrow the pipe diameter as they cool. Regularly pouring boiling water down drains can help dissolve soap scum and minor grease buildup before it becomes a restriction.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
If water is draining slowly or backing up, avoid using the affected fixture to prevent overflow. You can try using a plunger to create a tight seal and dislodge minor blockages. For persistent blockages or if multiple fixtures are affected, book a licensed plumbing professional to assess the line. We use CCTV cameras to locate the restriction and high-pressure jetting or drain snakes to clear it without damaging the pipe.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my drains?
Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh substances that can corrode pipes over time, especially older metal or PVC lines, and may not fully clear the blockage. They should be used sparingly and never mixed with other cleaners. For stubborn blockages or recurring issues, professional clearing with high-pressure water jetting is safer and more effective, as it removes the buildup without harming the pipe structure.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains?
We start with a high-definition CCTV drain camera inspection to locate the blockage and confirm the pipe condition. For grease, soap scum, and minor root intrusion, we use high-pressure water jetting that blasts away debris and scours the pipe walls. For solid obstructions or foreign objects, we use mechanical drain snakes. The method chosen depends on what the camera inspection reveals, ensuring the line is cleared without causing further damage.
What are the signs of a blocked drain?
Slow-draining water, gurgling sounds from fixtures, unpleasant odours rising from sinks or floor drains, and water backing up into other fixtures are all typical signs of a developing blockage. If you notice these symptoms, it's worth booking an assessment before the blockage becomes complete, as early clearing is usually faster and less disruptive than dealing with a full stoppage or overflow.
Can blocked drains cause damage to my property?
Yes. Water backing up from blocked drains can overflow into living spaces, causing water damage to floors, walls, and furnishings. Prolonged moisture can lead to mould growth and structural deterioration. In severe cases, blocked sewer lines can cause sewage to back up into the property or overflow onto the yard, creating health hazards and requiring costly cleanup. Addressing blockages early reduces the risk of these outcomes.
How often should I have my drains inspected and cleaned?
For most residential properties, an annual inspection and cleaning is sufficient to maintain healthy drainage. Properties with established trees, older clay or terracotta pipes, or a history of recurring blockages may benefit from more frequent maintenance. Regular CCTV inspections can identify developing issues like root intrusion or pipe deterioration before they cause a full blockage, allowing for preventative clearing or repair.
Do you offer same-day service for blocked drains in Glendenning?
Yes. We offer same-day service for all standard plumbing and drainage enquiries, and urgent jobs are sent out first with immediate dispatch. Response timing depends on current bookings and traffic conditions, but we provide ETA updates where possible. For emergencies like sewage backflow or complete stoppages, our 24/7 emergency service ensures a properly licensed plumbing technician is dispatched from the nearest hub to minimise downtime and property damage.
Is there a call-out fee for blocked drain work in Glendenning?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area and job type. When booking, confirm the call-out fee status for your specific location and whether it is waived or credited toward the quoted work. We provide a fixed-price quote before starting any clearing work, so you know the total cost upfront with no hidden fees. The price quoted is the price paid, and you can decide once scope is defined.
