Blocked Drains

Blocked drains in North Strathfield typically result from debris accumulation or root intrusion in the sewer line, and Fixed Today Plumbing clears them by identifying the blockage location with a CCTV drain camera and then removing it using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical tools suited to the obstruction type. This covers typical kitchen, bathroom, and laundry blockages in reachable pipes; if the camera inspection reveals collapsed pipework or structural damage, we explain the repair options and provide a fixed-price quote before any additional work proceeds.

Drainage blockages in residential properties often start with gradual warning signs. Slow-draining sinks, gurgling noises when water flows, or faint odours near floor drains usually indicate a partial obstruction building up inside the pipe. Left unaddressed, these partial blockages trap more debris over time until water can't pass and backs up into fixtures or overflows outside. In practice, we see Fat, Oil, and Grease solidify in kitchen waste lines as it cools, trapping food scraps and forming stubborn blockages that restrict flow. In older sewer lines, tree roots seeking moisture can enter through hairline cracks in clay or terracotta pipes, expanding over time and catching toilet paper and waste until the line is fully obstructed.

Our plumbers arrive with fully stocked mobile workshops that include high-definition CCTV inspection equipment and high-pressure water jetters. The process starts with a camera inspection to confirm what's blocking the line and where it's located within your property boundary. That footage shows whether it's a grease buildup, root mass, foreign object, or structural issue. Once we've identified the cause, we use the appropriate clearing method. High-pressure water jetting fires water at pressures high enough to scour grease from pipe walls and pulverise root intrusions, restoring the line to near-full capacity without damaging the pipe itself. For solid foreign objects like toys or sanitary items, a mechanical drain snake may be used to hook and retrieve the obstruction.

What changes the approach in North Strathfield properties is access to the sewer line and the condition of the existing pipework. Many homes in the area were built during different development periods, so pipe materials vary. Older sections may have original clay or cast iron pipes, while renovated properties often have PVC. The camera inspection confirms the pipe type and condition, which affects what clearing method is safe to use and whether repairs are needed after the blockage is removed. We confirm access points and the location of the boundary trap before quoting, because that determines whether the blockage is within your property or in the council main.

After the blockage is cleared, we test water flow to confirm full drainage is restored and provide you with the camera footage so you can see what was causing the issue and the condition of the pipe. That transparency helps you understand whether the problem is likely to recur and what preventative steps make sense. If the footage shows early signs of deterioration or root entry points, we'll explain the options, whether that's scheduled maintenance, drain relining to seal cracks, or monitoring the line for changes. You decide what happens next once the scope is clear and the price is confirmed.

Burst Pipes

A ruptured pipe in a North Strathfield property usually results from aging pipe material, ground movement, or sudden pressure changes, and it requires immediate isolation of the water supply to prevent flooding and property damage. Fixed Today Plumbing responds to burst pipe emergencies quickly, locating the leak using electronic detection equipment when it's hidden behind walls or underground, then repairing or replacing the damaged section depending on the pipe condition and location; if the burst occurs in a section that's difficult to access without excavation, trenchless pipe relining can often provide a structural repair without disturbing driveways, gardens, or finished floors.

Burst pipes are one of the more disruptive plumbing failures because they release water under mains pressure continuously until the supply is shut off. In many cases, the first sign is a sudden drop in water pressure, pooling water in the yard, or damp patches appearing on walls and ceilings. What often happens is that old galvanised steel or copper pipes corrode internally over decades, weakening until a pinhole leak forms or a section ruptures entirely. In areas with reactive clay soils, ground movement during wet and dry cycles can stress rigid pipe joints, causing them to crack or separate. Sudden temperature changes and water hammer from faulty fixtures can also cause failures in pipes that are already compromised.

When you call us for a broken pipe, the priority is making it safe. We'll guide you through isolating the water supply at the meter if you haven't already done so, to stop the leak and prevent further water damage while the plumber is on the way. Once onsite, our technician uses electronic leak detection equipment or thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact location of the burst, particularly when it's hidden in walls, under slabs, or buried in the yard. That avoids unnecessary excavation and gets straight to the damaged section.

For accessible pipes, the repair typically involves cutting out the damaged section and installing a new length of pipe with compression fittings or soldered joints, depending on the material. We carry copper, PVC, and flexible hose in our mobile workshops to handle most residential pipe types without delays. For pipes beneath permanent structures like driveways, patios, or bathroom floors, trenchless drain relining provides a permanent solution without demolition. A flexible resin-saturated liner is inserted into the existing pipe and inflated, then cured to form a new structural pipe within the old one. This method is faster, less invasive, and avoids the cost of reinstating landscaping or tiling after excavation.

After the repair or relining is complete, we pressure-test the line to confirm it's watertight and restore the water supply. You'll know the repair is holding before we leave. If the burst occurred in a section where multiple pipes are showing age-related deterioration, we'll explain the options for replacing other vulnerable sections to avoid repeat callouts, but that's your decision once the immediate fault is resolved and the long-term plan is clear.

Emergency Blocked Drains

Emergency drain blockage situations in North Strathfield, such as sewage backing up into the house or an overflowing toilet, require immediate professional attention to prevent health risks and property damage. Fixed Today Plumbing operates 24/7 with technicians dispatched from our West Sydney hub, reaching the Inner West corridor reliably even outside standard business hours. Urgent jobs are prioritised and sent out first, and we provide ETA updates once your plumber is allocated so you know when help is arriving; if it's safe to do so, we'll also provide brief guidance over the phone to help you isolate affected fixtures and minimise further overflow until the plumber is onsite to assess and clear the blockage.

What makes a drain blockage an emergency is the risk it creates. Sewage backing up into showers, laundry tubs, or ground-floor toilets exposes your household to contaminated water and creates an unsanitary environment that can't wait until morning. Overflowing drains can also cause water damage to flooring, cabinetry, and structural timbers if not stopped quickly. In practice, we commonly see emergency service calls triggered by a main sewer line blockage that affects multiple fixtures at once. When the main drain is obstructed, wastewater has nowhere to go and backs up through the lowest point in the system, typically the ground-floor shower or toilet.

Our emergency plumbers carry the same diagnostic and clearing equipment as our scheduled service teams, so there's no compromise in capability when you call after hours. The mobile workshop includes a CCTV drain camera to locate the blockage and high-pressure water jetting equipment to clear it. The process is the same regardless of the time of day: inspect the line with the camera to identify the obstruction, select the appropriate clearing method, remove the blockage, and verify flow is restored before leaving. For root intrusions or collapsed pipes discovered during the emergency callout, we'll make the drain safe and functional again as a temporary measure if a permanent structural repair is needed, then provide a fixed quote for the full repair during business hours once the immediate crisis is resolved.

Response times for emergency service calls depend on current job allocation and traffic conditions, but urgent jobs are sent out immediately and you'll be updated with an ETA when the technician is dispatched. If you're dealing with active sewage overflow, stop using all water fixtures in the house to prevent adding more wastewater to the system. Don't attempt to force the blockage by flushing repeatedly or running taps, as this increases the volume of water backing up. If it's a toilet overflow and you can safely access the isolation valve behind the cistern, turning it off stops water entering that fixture, but don't put yourself at risk in a contaminated area. The plumber will handle the rest once onsite.

After clearing the blockage and restoring drainage, we'll explain what caused it and whether any follow-up work is recommended to prevent recurrence. That might include scheduled drain maintenance, tree root management, or replacing a deteriorated section of pipe. But the priority during an emergency callout is making it safe and getting your drains working again so normal household use can resume.

Gas Plumbers

Gas fitting work in North Strathfield must be performed by a licensed and comprehensively insured gas fitter due to the serious safety risks involved, and Fixed Today Plumbing provides licensed gas services covering new gas point installations, appliance connections, gas leak detection and repairs, and compliance testing to Australian Standards. Our gas fitters are licensed in NSW and experienced with both residential and light commercial gas systems; all completed gas work is pressure-tested to confirm the system is gas-tight before it's recommissioned, and we issue compliance documentation where required by regulations.

Gas leaks are urgent. Natural gas is odourised with a mercaptan additive that smells like rotten eggs, so you'll usually notice a gas smell before any other symptom appears. Other warning signs include a hissing sound near gas lines or appliances, dying vegetation over underground pipes, or unusual soot buildup on burner surfaces. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately, don't operate any electrical switches or create ignition sources, and call our 24/7 emergency gas fitters from outside the property. Our technician will arrive with combustible gas detectors and thermal imaging equipment to locate the leak source, isolate the gas supply if needed, and perform the repair to make the system safe.

For planned gas work such as installing a new gas point for a cooktop, connecting a gas hot water supply service, or running a gas line to an outdoor heater, the process starts with confirming what's required and checking the existing gas infrastructure. We confirm the gas meter capacity can handle the additional load, plan the pipe route to comply with clearance and ventilation requirements under AS/NZS 5601.1, and provide a fixed-price quote before starting. Once the work is complete, the new installation is pressure-tested to ensure there are no leaks, then the gas supply is restored and the appliance is commissioned and checked for correct operation.

Gas appliance servicing and maintenance is another area where licensed expertise is essential. Over time, gas burners can become partially blocked, affecting combustion efficiency and safety. Cooktops, ovens, and continuous flow hot water service units benefit from periodic inspection and cleaning to maintain performance and ensure safe operation. Our gas fitters can assess your appliances, clean burners and igniters, check gas pressures, and confirm the flame pattern is correct. If a component needs replacement, we'll source the part and complete the repair to manufacturer specifications.

Compliance with gas safety regulations isn't optional. In most jurisdictions, completed gas work requires a compliance certificate to confirm the installation meets the relevant standards. We provide that documentation where required so you have a record for insurance, property transactions, or council inspections. Gas systems need to be treated with respect. If you're unsure whether a gas smell is serious or a burner isn't operating correctly, a brief call is enough to confirm whether immediate attention is needed or if it can be scheduled during business hours.

Hot Water Issues

Hot water system faults in North Strathfield properties range from complete failures requiring replacement to repairable issues like faulty thermostats, leaking pressure relief valves, or failing heating elements, and Fixed Today Plumbing handles installations and repairs for all major system types including electric storage, gas continuous flow, and heat pump units across brands such as Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Vulcan, Aquamax, and Thermann. Our plumbers assess the fault onsite, explain whether repair or replacement makes sense based on the system's age and condition, and provide a fixed-price quote before any work proceeds; new installations include compliance with Australian Standards, mandatory Tempering Valve installation to prevent scalding, and connection of Pressure Relief Valves to safe discharge points.

When a hot water service fails, the cause usually relates to age, component wear, or sediment buildup inside the tank. Electric storage systems rely on heating elements immersed in the water, and these can fail due to corrosion or mineral buildup over time. The sacrificial anode rod inside the tank is designed to corrode instead of the tank itself, extending the system's lifespan, but once the anode is consumed, the tank begins to corrode and rust-coloured water appears at taps. Gas continuous flow systems can develop faults in the ignition system, gas valve, or heat exchanger, resulting in intermittent hot water or complete failure to ignite. Heat pump systems introduce additional complexity with compressor and refrigerant components that require specialist knowledge to diagnose and repair.

Selecting the right replacement system depends on your household's hot water usage patterns, available space, and energy source. Electric storage tanks are reliable and have lower upfront costs but higher running costs compared to gas or heat pump systems. Gas continuous flow units heat water on demand, providing endless hot water and saving space since there's no storage tank, but they require adequate gas supply and ventilation. Heat pumps are the most energy-efficient option, using ambient air temperature to heat the water, but they have higher initial costs and require outdoor installation space. We'll explain the trade-offs for each system type and recommend an appropriate size based on the number of bathrooms and occupants.

Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of hot water systems and reduces the likelihood of sudden failures. For electric storage systems, periodic flushing to remove sediment buildup and anode rod replacement every few years can add years to the tank's life. Gas systems benefit from annual burner cleaning and pressure checks to maintain efficiency. We offer scheduled maintenance visits where our technicians inspect the system, test the Tempering Valve and Pressure Relief Valve, check for leaks, and confirm the unit is operating within manufacturer specifications. That proactive approach catches developing issues before they become failures and gives you time to plan a replacement rather than dealing with an emergency.

If your hot water has stopped entirely, is only lukewarm, or you're seeing rust-coloured water or leaks around the base of the unit, those symptoms indicate the system needs professional assessment. We're available 24/7 for hot water emergencies across North Strathfield. A quick call is enough to book a technician who'll diagnose the fault, explain the options, and get hot water restored as quickly as the repair or replacement allows.

Contact your local North Strathfield plumbers

Fixed Today Plumbing operates as a family-owned business with over 15 years' experience across Sydney, and we service North Strathfield from our West Sydney dispatch hub with a multi-van fleet of licensed plumbers ready for same-day and emergency callouts. Every attending technician is licensed in NSW for plumbing, drainage, and gas fitting, and we're fully insured with Public Liability and Workers Compensation for your protection, which means if accidental property damage occurs during the work, the insurance responds, and workplace injuries are covered under Workers Compensation without liability falling on you as the property owner.

Our pricing model is designed to eliminate uncertainty. We provide a fixed-price quote before starting work, based on the confirmed scope after the initial assessment. The price is by the job, not by the hour, so you know exactly what it will cost before committing. There are no hidden fees added at the end, and the quote remains valid for one month from the date it's issued in case you need time to consider the options or arrange access. Call-out fees depend on the service area and job type; many areas have no call-out fee, but it's worth confirming the call-out fee status for North Strathfield when you book so there are no surprises.

We understand that inviting a tradesperson into your home involves trust, particularly for families and security-sensitive properties. Our plumbers arrive in uniform and can provide identification on arrival before entering. Police checks and background checks are completed for all technicians. We use drop sheets or protective floor coverings in work areas to protect finished surfaces, and we clean up the work area before leaving. Boot covers or clean shoe covers are worn in homes when requested or when conditions require it. If you have specific entry instructions, scheduled access windows, or security protocols, let us know when booking and we'll follow them.

Workmanship quality is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on all completed work. That covers the labour component of any repair or installation we complete, meaning if a fault develops in the work itself, we'll return and fix it without charging labour again. Manufacturer warranties on hardware and appliances are separate and provided by the product manufacturer. The combination of lifetime labour warranty and fixed upfront pricing means you're protected from both surprise bills and substandard work, because we stand by the repairs we complete.

Response times depend on job urgency and current technician allocation. Emergency jobs are dispatched immediately, with the nearest available plumber sent from our West Sydney hub or other nearby dispatch points. Same-day service is available for most standard plumbing enquiries when you call during business hours. Once your job is allocated, we provide ETA updates so you know when the plumber will arrive. For planned work that isn't urgent, we can schedule an appointment time that suits your availability.

Our service range covers everything from clearing blocked kitchen sinks and repairing leaking taps to full hot water system replacements, gas appliance installations, burst pipe repairs, and structural drainage work including pipe relining. We handle residential properties, strata complexes, and light commercial sites. Diagnostic equipment in our mobile workshops includes CCTV drain cameras, high-pressure water jetters, electronic leak location tools, and gas detectors, so we can confirm the fault type and location before recommending a solution.

If you're dealing with a blocked drain, a plumbing leak, a gas smell, or a hot water unit that's stopped working, a quick call to our team is enough to arrange assessment and get the issue resolved. You don't need to diagnose the fault yourself or know exactly what's wrong. Our plumber will confirm what's causing it during the initial visit, explain the options in plain English, and provide a fixed quote before any repair work proceeds. That way you can make an informed decision without pressure or uncertainty about costs. Reach our team anytime on 1800 349 338 or enquire online, and we'll arrange a visit that fits your schedule and urgency.

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Blocked Drain FAQ's in North Strathfield

What usually causes blocked drains in North Strathfield homes?

Blocked drains in North Strathfield typically result from Fat, Oil, and Grease buildup in kitchen lines, hair and soap scum in bathroom drains, or tree root intrusion in older sewer pipes. Many properties in the area have a mix of original clay or terracotta pipes in older sections and PVC in renovated areas, and roots seeking moisture can enter through cracks in the older pipe materials. Foreign objects like sanitary products and wipes also cause blockages when flushed.

How do I know if a blocked drain needs urgent attention?

Sewage backing up into your house through showers, sinks, or toilets is an emergency that needs immediate professional clearing to prevent health risks and water damage. Other urgent signs include multiple fixtures draining slowly at once, which indicates a main sewer line blockage, or foul odours coming from drains. If water is overflowing or you can't use any plumbing fixtures, stop using water and call a fully licensed NSW plumber straight away.

What's involved when a plumber clears a drain blockage?

The plumber starts by inspecting the drain with a CCTV camera to identify what's blocking it and exactly where it's located. That footage shows whether it's grease, roots, or a foreign object. Once identified, the blockage is cleared using high-pressure water jetting for debris and roots, or a mechanical drain snake for solid objects. After clearing, flow is tested to confirm full drainage is restored, and you receive the camera footage showing the cause and the pipe condition.

Can tree roots cause blocked drains even if trees aren't directly above the pipes?

Yes, tree roots can travel several metres underground seeking moisture, particularly during dry periods. Roots detect the water vapour escaping through hairline cracks in aging clay, terracotta, or cast iron pipes and enter through those cracks. Once inside, they expand and trap debris, eventually causing a full blockage. Even trees growing in neighbouring properties can affect your sewer line if the roots extend under your boundary.

Is high-pressure water jetting safe for old pipes?

High-pressure water jetting is safe for most pipe materials when performed by a licensed plumbing technician using the correct pressure settings and nozzle types for the pipe condition. The CCTV CCTV inspection beforehand confirms the pipe type and condition, which determines the safe pressure level to use. If pipes are severely deteriorated or collapsed, the plumber will identify that during the inspection and recommend relining or repair instead of jetting.

How can I reduce the chance of blocked drains happening again?

Avoid pouring fats, oils, or grease down kitchen sinks; let them cool and dispose of them in the bin instead. Use sink strainers to catch food scraps and hair before they enter the drain. Only flush toilet paper and human waste, never wipes, sanitary products, or cotton buds even if labelled flushable. If tree roots were the cause, ask about scheduled drain maintenance or pipe lining to seal entry points and prevent recurrence.

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

A blocked drain has an obstruction inside an otherwise intact pipe, which can be cleared by removing the debris or roots causing it. A collapsed pipe has structural damage where the pipe walls have failed, crushed, or separated, creating a physical break in the line. Collapsed pipes require repair or replacement, often using trenchless pipe relining to avoid excavation. The CCTV inspection shows which situation you're dealing with.

Do you provide same-day service for blocked drains in North Strathfield?

Yes, same-day service is available for most drain blockage situations when you call during business hours, and we operate 24/7 for emergencies. Jobs are dispatched from our West Sydney hub, and urgent callouts are sent out immediately with ETA updates provided once the plumber is on the way. Response times depend on current job allocation and traffic, but reaching the Inner West corridor from our dispatch points is reliable even during peak periods.

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 North Strathfield

What usually causes blocked drains in North Strathfield homes?

How do I know if a blocked drain needs urgent attention?

What's involved when a plumber clears a drain blockage?

Can tree roots cause blocked drains even if trees aren't directly above the pipes?

Is high-pressure water jetting safe for old pipes?

How can I reduce the chance of blocked drains happening again?

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

Do you provide same-day service for blocked drains in North Strathfield?

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