Blocked Drain FAQ's in Turramurra
What are the common causes of blocked drains?
Blocked drains in Turramurra properties commonly result from tree root intrusion in older clay or terracotta pipes (typically 1960s-80s era), accumulation of fat, oil, and grease in kitchen lines, hair and soap scum buildup in bathroom drains, or foreign objects like sanitary products and wipes flushed down toilets. Root intrusion occurs when fine roots enter microscopic cracks seeking moisture, then expand and trap debris until flow is blocked. FOG blockages happen when cooking fats cool and solidify in the pipe, narrowing the diameter and catching passing solids.
How can I prevent my drains from getting blocked?
Prevent blocked drain issues by disposing of cooking oil and fat in the bin rather than pouring down the sink, using drain screens to catch hair and food particles before they enter the pipe, flushing only toilet paper and human waste (no wipes, sanitary products, or cotton buds), and periodically rinsing drains with hot water to help dissolve soap scum. For properties with large trees near sewer lines, regular CCTV inspections every few years can identify root intrusion before it causes a complete blockage.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
For a blocked drain, avoid pouring chemical cleaners down initially as they can complicate professional clearing if the blockage doesn't shift. If it's a complete backup preventing any drainage, stop using that fixture to prevent overflow. For toilet blockages, a plunger may help if the blockage is in the trap; if not, call a licensed and insured plumbing technician for assessment. For kitchen or bathroom drains backing up, it usually indicates a restriction that needs professional clearing with proper equipment; camera diagnostics can confirm the cause and location before clearing work starts.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my drains?
Chemical drain cleaners can shift minor blockages temporarily but often don't resolve the underlying cause, meaning the blockage returns. The harsh chemicals can also corrode older pipes over time, particularly at joins and bends where the chemical sits longer. For stubborn or recurring blockages, professional clearing with hydro-jetting removes the restriction and scours the pipe walls clean without chemical damage. If you've already used chemical cleaners, mention this when booking so the plumber can take appropriate safety precautions.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains?
Blocked drain cleaning starts with CCTV camera inspection to visually identify what's causing the blockage, its exact location, and pipe condition. For most blockages, high-pressure water jetting (hydro-jetting) is used, this fires water at 3,000-5,000 PSI through specialised nozzles to pulverise debris, scour grease from pipe walls, and break up root masses. For solid foreign objects or metal and plastic obstructions, an electric drain snake (auger) may be used instead. Once cleared, flow is tested and the camera confirms the line is clean before completing the job.
What are the signs of a drain blockage?
Blocked drain warning signs include slow drainage where water takes minutes to clear from the sink or shower, gurgling sounds when water drains (indicating air trapped behind a partial blockage), foul sewage smells from the drain or external gully trap, and water backing up in other fixtures when you use one (suggesting a main line blockage). Multiple drains affected simultaneously means the blockage is in your main sewer line, not just an individual fixture's pipe. These signs usually worsen gradually before a complete blockage occurs.
Can blocked drains cause damage to my property?
Blocked drains can cause significant property damage if left unattended. Water backing up from sinks, showers, or toilets can overflow onto floors, causing water damage to floor coverings, subfloors, and walls. Persistent moisture from slow leaks creates conditions for mould growth behind walls and under floors. In severe blockages, pressure can build up and cause pipes to leak or burst, resulting in hidden water damage. External sewer blockages can cause sewage overflow from gully traps, creating health hazards and contaminating soil or paved areas. Early assessment prevents these escalations.
How often should I have my drains inspected and cleaned?
For typical residential properties, a CCTV drain inspection every 2-3 years helps identify developing issues before they cause blockages. Properties with large trees near sewer lines benefit from annual inspections, as root intrusion patterns can be monitored and cleared before major restrictions develop. If you've had recurring blockages in the past, annual preventative cleaning and inspection is worthwhile. Commercial properties or high-use residential buildings may need more frequent maintenance depending on drain usage and age of pipework. An initial inspection can establish a baseline and recommended maintenance schedule.
