Blocked Drain FAQ's in Kenthurst
What are the common causes of blocked drains?
Blocked drains in Kenthurst are commonly caused by a build-up inside the pipe, or an obstruction entering from outside. In practice, we often find food waste and grease in kitchen lines, hair and soap residue in bathroom wastes, and tree roots entering sewer joints. The exact cause matters because it changes the safest clearing method, so inspection comes first.
How can I prevent my drains from getting blocked?
You can reduce blocked-drain risk by limiting what goes into the pipe, especially in kitchen and bathroom wastes. Put oils and food scraps in the bin rather than washing them down, and use a simple strainer where practical to catch hair. If a drain slows repeatedly, book an inspection so the underlying cause is confirmed before it becomes a full backup.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
If your drain is blocked in Kenthurst, stop using the affected fixture as much as possible and arrange a duly licensed plumbing technician to assess it, especially if there is any overflow. A blockage can worsen quickly because water has nowhere to go, so it may back up into sinks, showers, or toilets. Once the cause is confirmed onsite, a fixed-price quote is provided before we begin.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my drains?
Chemical drain cleaners are not a reliable solution for many blockages, and they can increase risk to pipework and fittings over time. They also make professional work harder because the chemical can remain in the line when the plumber opens it. If the drain is slow, gurgling, or backing up, the safer option is a camera inspection and a proper clear once the scope is confirmed.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains?
Plumbers typically clear blocked drains by locating the restriction, choosing a method that suits the pipe type, and then confirming flow after clearing. Fixed Today Plumbing uses high-definition CCTV drain cameras for diagnostics and high-pressure water jetting (hydro-jetting) for debris removal. If inspection shows structural pipe damage rather than just a blockage, repair options are explained and quoted before proceeding.
What are the signs of a blocked drain?
Common signs of a blocked drain include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, unpleasant odours, and water backing up in a fixture. A more urgent sign is overflow, especially from a toilet or floor waste, because it can quickly lead to property damage and hygiene issues. If symptoms appear in more than one fixture, book an assessment so the location and cause can be confirmed.
Can blocked drains cause damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains can cause damage because restricted flow can force water to back up and escape at the lowest point, often inside the home. That can lead to wet floors, damaged cabinetry, mould risk, and in some cases stressed pipe joints. Early attendance usually limits damage because the blockage is removed before repeated overflows occur, and the line is checked for underlying defects.
How often should I have my drains inspected and cleaned?
Most properties do not need scheduled drain unblocking unless there is a history of recurring blockages, slow drains, or tree root intrusion. The right interval depends on what the inspection shows, the pipe condition, and how the line is used day to day. If you have had repeated backups in Kenthurst, a CCTV inspection can confirm whether you are dealing with build-up, roots, or structural damage.
