When facing a blocked drain emergency, it’s important to know the dos and don'ts to avoid causing further damage. Calling a professional plumber quickly is key to safely clearing the blockage. Learn what not to do yourself, and contact us for urgent drain unblocking services.
Early detection of warning signs can help avert complete blockages.
Be alert for gurgling sounds, slow draining water from your shower drain, foul odours, and water pooling in sinks or tubs when other fixtures are used.
Some early signs of a potential blockage include:
If several drains are affected, early intervention with drain cleaning is key; however, for recurring blockages, a professional plumber is essential to prevent serious damage.
Blocked drains typically result from the following culprits:
Hair, FOG, and foreign objects can combine to block drainage. It’s crucial to maintain a clean plumbing system by using strainers and correct disposal to keep unsuitable items and buildups out of the drains.
When faced with a blocked drain, it’s important to recognise what to do, as prompt action can prevent flooding and more severe pipe damage. As soon as you notice gurgling sounds, foul odours, or slow drainage, try the following immediate troubleshooting steps:
Visually inspect your kitchen sink, along with tub/shower drains, and toilet bowls for obstructions. Hair and soap scum often accumulate near drain openings. Use gloves and tongs to carefully remove debris, disposing of it in the garbage rather than flushing it further down the drain, as certain items should never go down your pipes.
Plunging can provide enough suction to dislodge minor clogs. Repeat for several minutes to clear the obstruction.
Fill the shower drain or tub with water to cover the drain. Position the plunger to create a tight seal, then pump vigorously to agitate the water and maximise suction to clear the blockage.
For more challenging clogs, use 1 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of hot vinegar down the drain; avoid boiling water to prevent damage.
The soda vinegar chemical reaction generates expanding foam and pressure that may dislodge the blockage without damaging pipes. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Finish by running hot water from the tap for a full 2 minutes.
Caution - Wear eye protection, since vinegar/baking soda mixtures can splatter unexpectedly.
You can also repeat this technique weekly to help prevent blocked future clogs. However, if multiple attempts to clear the blockage fail, avoid further makeshift drain cleaning methods and contact a professional plumber immediately to prevent overflowing and pipe damage.
Preventative measures are crucial to avoiding future blocked drain blockages. Here are some methods to prevent blockages caused by common household waste:
Employ hair catchers or drain screens to capture hair, and sink strainers for food debris and solids. Clean these devices frequently.
Let fats, oils, and grease (FOG) cool and harden before disposal in the trash, not down the drain. Scrape cookware clean before washing. Utilise council services for FOG collection.
Use a FOGO bin (Food Organics, Garden Organics) to divert food waste from waterways, now offered by many councils.
Periodically use a baking soda and vinegar mixture to keep drains clear. Ensure a plumber assesses and maintains main sewer lines yearly to prevent tree roots and debris from causing blockages.
For homes with old metal or clay pipes, consider upgrading to durable PVC pipes that resist clogs and collapses, and opt for wider 4 to 6-inch drains with anti-blocking technology.
Proactive measures protect your plumbing from bursts, leaks, or floods, and keep appliances contaminant-free. Apply these simple, economical strategies for consistent drainage in your home.
If DIY solutions prove ineffective, professional plumbing services are your next step. Erskine Park Plumbing, with notable expertise since 2019, can handle tough clogs to restore unimpeded water flow in your property.
Seek a licensed plumber for blocked drains in Sydney if experiencing any of these issues:
Our technicians perform a thorough pipe inspection to identify the clog’s cause and determine the best resolution, which might include:
We provide excavation and complete drain replacement for extensive tree root invasion, pipe repairs, or blocked sewer lines, to prevent recurring problems.
Avoid letting a small clog develop into a major emergency. Rely on our Sydney-based plumbing proficiency to effectively clear your drains for steady water flow. Contact us now to book a service appointment.
Call - 1300 349 338
Email - [email protected]
Online - www.erskineparkplumbing.com.au
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Read MoreImplement DIY tips like using drain strainers, non-toxic cleaners, checking for leaks, and cleaning aerators to maintain smooth water flow and prevent clogs or damage in your plumbing system.
Read MoreTry pouring boiling water down the drain first. If that doesn’t work, mix baking soda with vinegar or salt and pour it in, wait, then flush with more hot water. Using a plunger can also help force the clog out.
Read MoreErskine Park, 2759 NSW
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