Blocked Drain FAQs in Longueville
What are the common causes of blocked drains?
Blocked drains in Longueville are most often caused by a build-up that gradually narrows the pipe, such as grease in kitchen lines, hair and soap residue in bathroom wastes, or foreign items that should not be flushed. Tree roots are also a common cause in leafy Sydney suburbs. The exact cause is confirmed onsite, often with a CCTV drain camera.
How can I prevent my drains from getting blocked?
Preventing drain blockages usually comes down to keeping solids and oils out of pipework, because most recurring issues start with build-up on the pipe wall. Use common-sense disposal habits and avoid flushing items other than toilet paper. If a property has had repeat problems, a professional inspection can confirm whether the issue is build-up or a pipe defect that needs repair.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
If a drain is blocked, the safest next step is to stop using the affected fixtures and book a licensed plumber to assess it, especially if water is backing up or multiple fixtures are involved. Fixed Today Plumbing can attend Longueville for urgent and non-urgent jobs, confirm the cause onsite, then provide a fixed-price quote before any work starts.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my drains?
Chemical drain cleaners can create problems because harsh chemicals may damage some pipe materials and can be hazardous if the drain needs professional equipment later. For that reason, professional clearing is usually the safer option when the blockage is persistent or severe. If the obstruction is caused by roots or a damaged pipe, chemicals will not address the underlying fault anyway.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains?
Fixed Today Plumbing clears blocked drains by first confirming the cause and location, then choosing a method suited to the pipe condition. This commonly involves CCTV drain inspections to see what is happening inside the line, followed by high-pressure water jetting to remove debris and restore flow. If structural damage is found, repair options are explained and quoted once scope is established.
What are the signs of a blocked drain?
Signs of a blocked drain include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, unpleasant odours, or water rising in a shower, sink, or toilet when another fixture is used. These signs matter because a partial blockage can become a full blockage and overflow. If you notice backflow or multiple fixtures affected, booking an assessment is the sensible next step.
Can blocked drains cause damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains can damage a Longueville property because backed-up wastewater can overflow into bathrooms, laundries, and lower areas, and that can lead to water damage and mould growth. The risk increases when the blockage is in the main line or when fixtures are still being used. A prompt inspection allows the cause to be confirmed and cleared before damage spreads.
How often should I have my drains inspected and cleaned?
There is no single schedule that suits every Longueville home, because the right timing depends on how the drains are used and whether the property has a history of blockages. If you have repeated slow drainage or past overflows, a CCTV check can be useful to confirm the cause. Once the scope is known, maintenance options can be discussed and quoted.