Blocked Drain FAQ's in Tregear
What causes most blocked drains in Tregear properties?
Most blockages in Tregear trace back to fat and grease solidifying in kitchen lines, hair and soap buildup in bathroom drains, or tree roots entering cracks in older terracotta and early PVC pipes laid during the suburb's development. Foreign items flushed down toilets (wipes, sanitary products, excessive paper) also cause frequent blockages. Once debris starts accumulating, it traps more material over time until water flow is significantly restricted.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We use high-pressure water jetting (hydro-jetting) to clear blockages, which fires water at controlled pressure to scour debris and roots from pipe walls without damaging the line. A CCTV drain camera locates the blockage first so we know exactly what we're dealing with. For stubborn obstructions, mechanical drain snakes break up or retrieve solid objects. If inspection reveals structural damage, we explain repair options and provide a fixed quote before proceeding with any additional work.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners for a slow-draining sink?
Chemical cleaners can provide temporary relief for minor grease or hair buildup, but they contain harsh substances that corrode pipes over time, particularly older metal fittings and PVC joints. They're also hazardous if they contact skin or mix with other cleaning products. For persistent blockages, a professional assessment using a drain camera identifies the actual cause and clears it properly without risking pipe damage or incomplete removal that leads to recurrence.
What should I do immediately if my drain is backing up?
Stop using all water fixtures connected to that drain to prevent further overflow and potential water damage. If sewage is backing up through floor drains or toilets, it's urgent, call us for immediate dispatch so a correctly licensed NSW plumber can assess the blockage location and restore function. Don't attempt to force the blockage through with repeated flushing or plunging, as this can worsen the backup or push sewage into other parts of the system.
How long does a typical drain clearing take?
Most routine blockages are cleared within 30 to 60 minutes once the plumber is onsite, depending on access and blockage location. This includes camera inspection to locate the restriction, high-pressure jetting to clear it, and verification that flow is restored. If structural damage is found or the blockage is deep in the main sewer line, additional time is needed to assess options and confirm scope before any repair work proceeds.
Will tree roots keep coming back after clearing?
Tree roots naturally seek moisture, so if cracks exist in the pipe, roots will eventually re-enter after clearing unless the pipe is repaired or relined. High-pressure jetting removes existing roots and clears the line, but it doesn't seal the cracks that allowed root entry. Pipe relining creates a seamless inner pipe that prevents future root intrusion, offering a permanent solution where excavation isn't practical or cost-effective.
How do I know if the problem is my responsibility or the council's?
In most Sydney properties, you're responsible for all drainage pipes within your property boundary, including the section between your house and the connection point at the front boundary. Sydney Water or the local council typically manages the main sewer line from that connection point outward. If you're unsure, we can inspect the system with a drain camera and confirm where the blockage is located relative to your boundary.
What signs indicate I need a drain inspection, not just a clearing?
Frequent recurring blockages in the same location, foul odours that persist after clearing, slow drainage across multiple fixtures, or visible ground subsidence near sewer lines all suggest structural issues that require camera inspection. A CCTV drain inspection reveals cracks, collapses, root damage, or pipe deterioration that won't be fixed by simple clearing. We explain what the camera shows and provide repair or reline options based on the actual pipe condition, not assumptions.
