Blocked Drains

Drainage blockages in Guildford typically result from tree root intrusion in older terracotta pipes, fat and grease buildup in kitchen lines, or hair and soap scum accumulation in bathroom drains. When water drains slowly, gurgles, or backs up into sinks and showers, the restriction is usually located somewhere between the fixture and the main sewer connection. We locate the blockage using a high-definition CCTV drain camera, which shows us the exact obstruction type, depth, and pipe condition without invasive digging.

Once the blockage is identified, we clear it using high-pressure jetting for roots and grease, or an electric drain snake for solid foreign objects. The jetting nozzle fires water at pressures sufficient to scour pipe walls and restore near-full flow capacity. After clearing, we run the camera again to verify the line is open and check for any structural damage that might cause future blockages. If the pipe shows cracks or root damage, we explain your options (excavation or trenchless relining) and provide a separate fixed quote before any additional work proceeds.

For Guildford homes built during the post-war period, root intrusion from mature street trees and backyard plantings is a recurring issue. Ficus and large eucalypts send fine roots into pipe joints seeking moisture, and over time these roots expand and trap waste. We've cleared hundreds of root blockages across Western Sydney properties with similar pipe ages, so we understand what to expect when assessing older terracotta lines. If your property has established trees near the sewer line and you're experiencing slow drainage or frequent blockages, a CCTV check can show whether roots are the cause and how far the intrusion has progressed.

Kitchen sinks that drain slowly or smell unpleasant often have fat, oil, and grease (FOG) buildup. As FOG cools in the pipe, it solidifies and catches food scraps, coffee grounds, and soap residue. Over months, this creates a thick layer that narrows the pipe diameter. High-pressure jetting removes FOG buildup effectively, but the blockage will return if fats continue being poured down the sink. We explain what's causing the restriction and how to reduce the chance of it recurring, so you're not dealing with the same problem in six months.

Bathroom drains clog when hair combines with soap scum and body oils to form a dense mat. Shower drains are particularly prone to this, especially in homes with multiple occupants or long hair. A plunger sometimes dislodges surface clogs, but if the blockage is deep in the line or the drain remains slow after plunging, a professional clearing with a snake or jetter is needed. We remove the obstruction, test the flow, and confirm the drain is running freely before leaving.

If multiple fixtures are affected at once (toilet, shower, and laundry all backing up), the blockage is likely in the main sewer line rather than an individual fixture drain. This is more urgent because continued use can cause sewage to overflow inside the home. We treat main line blockages as priority callouts and aim to restore flow the same day. Once cleared, we'll discuss whether a CCTV check is worthwhile to check for structural issues that might cause future blockages.

Burst Pipes

When a pipe bursts in a Guildford property, water escapes under mains pressure, causing rapid damage to floors, walls, and belongings. Burst pipes occur when corrosion weakens the pipe wall, ground movement stresses joints, or freezing conditions cause expansion (less common in Sydney but possible in winter). The priority is isolating the water supply to stop further flooding, then repairing or replacing the damaged section once the area is accessible and dry enough to work safely.

The first step is locating the burst. Sometimes it's visible (water pooling under a slab, a wet patch on a wall, or a geyser in the garden), but often the leak is hidden beneath concrete, inside a cavity, or underground. We use electronic leak detection equipment that listens for the sound of water escaping under pressure, allowing us to pinpoint the leak without demolishing large areas. Once located, we assess whether the pipe can be repaired with a compression fitting or sleeve, or whether a section needs replacing.

For burst pipes beneath driveways, pathways, or established landscaping, trenchless drain relining is often the least disruptive solution. This involves inserting a resin-saturated liner into the existing damaged pipe, inflating it to cover the burst section, then curing it with hot water or UV light to create a sealed, structurally independent repair. Relining avoids excavation, reduces labour time, and leaves your property intact. If the pipe has completely collapsed or relining isn't suitable, we'll explain why excavation is needed and provide a fixed quote for the dig-and-replace approach before starting.

Older Guildford homes with galvanised steel or copper pipes are more prone to burst failures as corrosion thins the pipe wall over decades. If your property still has original plumbing from the 1960s or earlier, a burst is often a sign that other sections are nearing end-of-life. We can assess the overall condition of your water lines during the repair visit and discuss whether partial or full repiping is worth considering to avoid repeated urgent callouts.

Burst pipe repairs are treated as emergencies. We operate 24/7 and dispatch a licensed, insured plumber immediately when a burst is causing active flooding or property damage. While the plumber is on the way, isolate the water supply at the meter if you can safely access it. This stops the flow and limits damage. If you're unsure where the isolation valve is or can't reach it safely, leave it and wait for the plumber to arrive. Don't attempt to repair the burst yourself; water under mains pressure is difficult to control and temporary fixes often fail, causing further damage.

Once the burst is repaired and the system is refilled, we test for leaks at the repair point and check water pressure to confirm normal operation. If the repair involved cutting into walls or floors, we'll advise on drying times and whether additional trades (plasterers, tilers) are needed to restore finishes. Our job is making the plumbing safe and functional; cosmetic repairs are usually handled separately, but we'll explain what's needed so you can organise the next steps with confidence.

Emergency Blocked Drains

Drainage emergencies happen without warning. A toilet that won't flush, a shower filling with wastewater, or a laundry trough overflowing mid-cycle are disruptive and unsanitary, and they need resolving the same day. Fixed Today Plumbing operates 24/7 across Sydney, including Guildford, with licensed plumbers dispatched immediately for urgent drainage blockages. We carry high-pressure jetters, electric snakes, and CCTV cameras on every van, so the attending plumber can assess and clear most blockages onsite without needing a second visit.

When you call with an emergency blockage, our dispatch team will ask a few questions to understand the urgency (Is water backing up? Are multiple fixtures affected? Is sewage overflowing?). This helps us allocate the right technician and equipment. You'll receive an ETA based on current job load and travel time from the nearest hub. If the blockage is causing active flooding or sewage backup, we prioritise it ahead of non-urgent work.

On arrival, the plumber will confirm the affected fixtures, locate the blockage using a camera if needed, then clear it using the most effective method for the obstruction type. For root blockages and grease buildup, high-pressure water jetting is usually the fastest solution. For solid foreign objects (toys, sanitary products, wipes), an electric snake retrieves or breaks up the obstruction. Once cleared, we test the drain to confirm flow is restored, then explain what caused the blockage and whether any follow-up work (pipe repairs, root treatment) is recommended.

Emergency callouts are charged at standard rates during business hours. After-hours, weekend, and public holiday callouts may incur an additional surcharge to cover the cost of immediate availability. We'll confirm pricing when you book so there are no surprises when the invoice is issued. The call-out fee (if applicable to your suburb) is explained upfront, and if you proceed with the quoted work, it's typically deducted from the total job cost.

If the blockage can't be fully resolved on the first visit (for example, if the pipe is collapsed and requires excavation or relining), we'll provide temporary relief where possible (clearing enough flow to make the system usable), then return with the necessary equipment and materials once you've approved the additional scope. Our goal is getting your drains functional again as quickly as possible, with clear communication at every step so you understand what's happening and what it will cost.

Gas Plumbers

Fixed Today Plumbing holds a full NSW gas fitting licence (305428C), which means our plumbers are legally authorised to install, repair, and maintain gas appliances and pipework in Guildford homes and businesses. Gas work must only be performed by licensed professionals because incorrect installations or repairs can result in gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, or fire risk. We complete all gas jobs to AS/NZS 5601.1 standards and issue compliance certificates where required by regulation.

Common gas services we provide in Guildford include connecting new gas cooktops, ovens, and hot water supply systems, repairing gas leaks, installing additional gas points for outdoor heaters or barbecues, and converting appliances from electric to gas. If you're renovating or replacing an old appliance, we'll assess the existing gas supply to confirm it has adequate capacity and pressure for the new unit, then complete the connection and test for leaks before commissioning the appliance.

Gas leaks require immediate attention. If you smell gas (a distinctive "rotten egg" odour caused by added mercaptan), hear hissing near an appliance or meter, or notice dying vegetation over an underground gas line, isolate the gas supply at the meter if you can safely access it, then call us for an emergency assessment. Don't use electrical switches, lighters, or anything that could create a spark. Ventilate the area by opening doors and windows, then wait outside for the plumber to arrive.

We detect gas leaks using electronic combustible gas detectors and soapy water tests at fittings and joints. Once the leak is located, we repair or replace the faulty section, then pressure-test the entire system to confirm it's gas-tight before turning the supply back on. All gas repairs are followed by a functional test of the affected appliance to ensure it's operating safely and efficiently.

For new gas installations (adding a gas point in a kitchen, laundry, or outdoor area), we'll run the supply line from the meter or an existing branch, install the outlet and isolation valve, then test and certify the work. Gas pipework must be sized correctly for the appliance load and installed with proper support and protection to meet safety standards. We explain what's involved, provide a fixed quote, and complete the installation in a way that's safe, compliant, and ready for your appliance connection.

If you're unsure whether a gas smell is serious or just a pilot light that's blown out, call us. We'd rather attend a false alarm than have you ignore a genuine leak. Gas safety is not something to second-guess, and our emergency plumbers are available 24/7 to assess and make your property safe.

Hot Water Systems

When a hot water unit fails in Guildford, the most common causes are a worn sacrificial anode rod (in storage tanks), sediment buildup insulating the heating element or gas burner, a faulty thermostat, or a leak in the tank or pipework. For electric storage systems, the first sign is often rust-coloured water in the morning before the tank has had time to settle. For gas continuous flow units, fluctuating water temperature or the burner failing to ignite usually indicates a thermostat or ignition fault.

We install, repair, and maintain all major brands including Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Vulcan, Aquamax, and Thermann. Whether you have an electric storage tank, gas continuous flow, heat pump, or solar system, our licensed plumbers are trained to diagnose faults, source parts, and complete repairs efficiently. If the system is beyond economical repair (typically when the tank has corroded through or major components have failed), we'll explain your replacement options, recommend a system suited to your household size and usage patterns, then provide a fixed quote for supply and installation.

Hot water installations must comply with AS/NZS 3500 standards, which include mandatory Tempering Valves (to limit tap temperature to 50°C and prevent scalding) and Pressure Relief Valves (to prevent tank over-pressurisation). We install these safety devices as part of every new system and test them during commissioning to confirm correct operation. For gas systems, we also complete a gas tightness test and issue a compliance certificate once the installation is signed off.

If you're choosing a new system, the main decision points are fuel type (electric, gas, or heat pump), storage vs continuous flow, and tank size. Gas continuous flow units are popular in Guildford because they're energy-efficient, compact, and provide endless hot water on demand. Electric storage tanks have lower upfront costs but higher running costs over time. Heat pumps are the most efficient option but require adequate outdoor space and perform better in milder climates. We'll discuss the pros and cons of each type based on your household size, budget, and existing infrastructure (gas supply availability, electrical capacity, installation space).

For urgent hot water failures, we aim for same-day service where parts and access allow. If your system has failed completely and a repair isn't possible that day, we'll discuss temporary options (portable electric units, priority ordering of replacement systems) to minimise disruption. Most hot water service installations are completed within a few hours once the new unit arrives onsite, and we'll remove and dispose of the old system as part of the job.

Regular maintenance extends the life of storage hot water service systems. We recommend annual anode rod inspections for electric and gas storage tanks, as replacing the anode before it's fully consumed prevents tank corrosion and premature failure. Flushing sediment from the tank every few years also improves efficiency and reduces strain on heating elements. If your system is approaching 10 years old and you're noticing reduced performance, a maintenance check can identify issues before they become expensive failures.

Contact a Guildford Plumbing Company

If you're dealing with a blocked drain, leaking tap, burst pipe, or any other plumbing issue in Guildford, a brief phone call to Fixed Today Plumbing on 1800 349 338 connects you with our dispatch team. We'll confirm the nature of the problem, check urgency, and book a licensed and insured plumber at a time that suits your schedule. For emergencies, we dispatch immediately and provide an ETA based on current workload and travel time from the nearest hub.

Our booking process is straightforward. You describe the issue, we ask a few questions to understand scope and urgency, then confirm the call-out fee status for your suburb and provide an arrival window. If it's an urgent job (active leak, sewage backup, gas smell), we prioritise it and aim for same-day resolution. For non-urgent work (tap repairs, maintenance, installations), we'll find a time that works for you, usually within a few days.

When the plumber arrives, they'll assess the issue, explain what's causing it in plain English, and outline the options for fixing it. If diagnostics are needed (camera inspection, leak detection), we'll explain what's involved and provide a price before proceeding. Once the scope is confirmed, we provide a fixed-price quote that covers labour, materials, and any disposal or cleanup. You decide whether to proceed, and if you approve, we complete the work and test the outcome before leaving.

We operate across all Sydney metropolitan areas, with localised dispatch points in West Sydney, Dolans Bay, and Ruse to ensure rapid arrival for emergency callouts. Guildford is serviced from our West Sydney hub, which means typical response times are reliable and not affected by cross-city traffic delays. Our plumbers carry fully stocked mobile workshops with common parts and specialist tools, so most jobs are completed on the first visit without needing to order parts or return later.

Fixed Today Plumbing is a family-owned business that's been operating in Sydney for over 15 years. We've completed thousands of jobs across Western Sydney suburbs, including Guildford, and we understand the common plumbing issues that affect properties in this area (aging terracotta drains, root intrusion, older hot water systems nearing end-of-life). Our near-perfect 5-star rating across 800+ verified reviews reflects our commitment to clear communication, honest pricing, and thorough workmanship.

All our attending plumbers are licensed in NSW, carry ID, and arrive in uniform. They'll confirm their identity at the door, explain what they're doing before starting, and keep the work area as tidy as practical. We use drop sheets to protect floors, wear boot covers when requested, and clean up debris generated by the work before leaving. If you have specific access requirements (security gates, strata sign-in, restricted parking), let us know when booking and we'll coordinate accordingly.

Pricing is fixed and provided upfront once scope is clarified. We don't charge by the hour, so there's no incentive to work slowly or pad time. The price quoted is the price paid, with no hidden fees added at the end. For many Guildford service areas, there's no call-out fee; confirm this when booking. If additional work is identified during the job (for example, a camera inspection reveals structural pipe damage), we'll explain the options and provide a separate quote before proceeding. You're never committed to work you haven't approved.

We back all workmanship with a Lifetime Labour Warranty, which means if a fault develops due to our work, we'll return and fix it at no charge. Manufacturer warranties on parts and appliances are passed on to you, and we'll provide documentation and receipts suitable for warranty claims, strata records, or landlord reporting. If compliance certification is required (gas work, backflow prevention, certain drainage alterations), we issue it as part of the job.

For non-urgent enquiries, you can also reach us via email at jobs@fixedtoday.com.au. We'll respond with availability and a preliminary assessment of what's likely involved. If you're after a rough indication of cost before committing to a callout, describe the issue in detail and we'll provide guidance based on similar jobs, though an site assessment is usually needed to confirm exact scope and pricing.

Whether it's a blocked drain that's been slow for weeks, a hot water system that's stopped heating, or an urgent ruptured pipe flooding your laundry, Fixed Today Plumbing has the experience, equipment, and local presence to resolve it efficiently. Call 1800 349 338 now to book a fully licensed plumbing technician in Guildford.

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Blocked Drain FAQ's in Guildford

What causes blocked drains in older Guildford properties?

In Guildford homes built during the mid-20th century, blocked drains commonly result from tree root intrusion into aging terracotta pipes. Roots enter through microscopic cracks seeking moisture, then expand and trap debris. Kitchen drains clog when fat, oil, and grease solidify and catch food scraps, while bathroom drains block when hair combines with soap scum. A CCTV camera inspection shows the exact cause and location without digging.

How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging old pipes?

We use high-pressure water jetting for roots and grease, which scours the pipe walls without damaging properly installed terracotta or PVC. For solid foreign objects like toys or sanitary products, an electric drain snake breaks up or retrieves the obstruction. After clearing, we run a camera to confirm the line is open and check for cracks or structural damage that might need separate repair.

What should I do if my toilet is backing up and won't flush?

Stop using all plumbing fixtures immediately to prevent sewage overflow, then call us for an emergency assessment. Don't pour chemical cleaners down the toilet, as they won't clear a main line blockage and can make conditions hazardous for the attending plumber. We'll dispatch a licensed and insured plumber with jetting and camera equipment to locate and clear the restriction the same day.

Can tree roots grow back after you clear a clogged drain?

Yes, tree roots will regrow into pipes if the entry point (cracks or loose joints) isn't sealed. After clearing a root blockage, we'll show you the camera footage and explain whether the pipe needs relining or replacement to prevent recurrence. Trenchless relining seals the inside of the pipe, creating a smooth, root-proof barrier without digging up your garden or driveway.

How long does it take to clear a typical drain blockage in Guildford?

Most straightforward blockages (hair clogs, grease buildup, shallow root intrusions) are cleared within an hour once the plumber arrives and confirms the location. If a camera inspection is needed first, or if the blockage is deep in the main sewer line, it may take longer. We'll provide an estimated timeframe after the initial assessment and keep you updated if complications arise.

Do you charge a call-out fee for blocked drains in Guildford?

For many Guildford service areas, there's no call-out fee, but confirm this when you book as it can vary by specific location. If a call-out fee applies, it's explained upfront and typically deducted from the total job cost if you proceed with the quoted work. Our pricing is fixed by the job, not hourly, so you'll know the cost before we start.

What's the difference between a drain blockage and a collapsed pipe?

A drain blockage has an obstruction (roots, grease, foreign object) restricting flow, but the pipe structure is intact. A collapsed pipe has caved in or separated, preventing any flow and often requiring excavation or relining to restore function. A CCTV inspection shows which situation you're dealing with, and we'll explain the repair options and costs before proceeding with either clearing or structural repair.

Can you clear a blocked stormwater drain during heavy rain?

Yes, we can assess and clear blocked stormwater drains in wet conditions, though safety and access may limit what's possible during active flooding. If the blockage is causing water to pool around your property or enter the building, we'll prioritise it as an emergency. Once cleared, we'll check for damage or debris entry points that might cause future blockages during storms.

How do I know if the blockage is inside my property or in the council sewer main?

If only your property is affected, the blockage is usually within your boundary and your responsibility. If multiple neighbouring properties are experiencing backups simultaneously, the blockage may be in the council main. We can determine responsibility by locating the blockage with a camera. If it's in the council section, we'll advise you to report it to Sydney Water and can provide camera footage as evidence if needed.

Is it worth getting a CCTV check even if the drain is flowing again?

If a drain has cleared itself or responds temporarily to plunging but keeps blocking, a camera inspection identifies the underlying cause (partial root intrusion, pipe sag, grease buildup) so you can address it before it becomes an emergency. Knowing the pipe condition also helps you plan for future maintenance or repairs. We'll explain what the camera shows and whether any follow-up work is recommended.

What Our Customers Say Satisfied Clients

Fantastic service and reasonable cost, especially so close to Christmas. Very responsive and adherence to timing was excellent. Highly recommend this company.
Sarah Rhys-Jones

First time using Fixed Today and very happy with the services. Receptionist was responsive on the enquiry and time arrangement. The plumber Jesse did the fantastic work for us to fix the toilet leaking issue. Jesse is very professional and responsible and thanks for his work done!
Mandy Chen

Exceptional service from Joe and Curtis. They were prompt, professional, courteous and the offer of a cup of coffee before they arrived was a nice touch. We will not hesitate to call on them for future services and will recommend them to family and friends.
Bobbie De Jesus

Very pleased with the work by Fixed Today. Punctual, courteous workers, all tasks performed to a very high standard. Don’t think I could find a better plumbing contractor anywhere in Sydney. Thank you Steve, Charlie and your team.
Frances

I found them to be professional and efficient in resolving my blocked sewer line. They attended to the problem on the same day as me calling them, arriving on time and calling prior on approach. I would happily recommend them to anyone in need of a plumber.
Phil Steiner

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Blocked Drain FAQ's in Guildford

What causes blocked drains in older Guildford properties?

How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging old pipes?

What should I do if my toilet is backing up and won't flush?

Can tree roots grow back after you clear a clogged drain?

How long does it take to clear a typical drain blockage in Guildford?

Do you charge a call-out fee for blocked drains in Guildford?

What's the difference between a drain blockage and a collapsed pipe?

Can you clear a blocked stormwater drain during heavy rain?

How do I know if the blockage is inside my property or in the council sewer main?

Is it worth getting a CCTV check even if the drain is flowing again?

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