A Comprehensive Guide For Clearing Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can be a major nuisance for homeowners, causing inconvenience, foul odours, and potential damage to the plumbing system. 

Understanding the causes of blocked drains, identifying the signs of a blockage, and knowing how to clear them are essential skills for any homeowner. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various aspects of clearing blocked drains—from common causes to prevention techniques. By following these steps, you can effectively tackle drain blockages and maintain a smoothly running plumbing system.

Understanding the Causes of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can stem from various causes, from improper disposal of everyday items to natural intrusions like tree roots. Here’s a breakdown of the most common culprits:

Common Household Items That Block Drains

Blocked drains are often caused by the accumulation of everyday household items that are mistakenly flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink. 

These include:

• Wet wipes, tampons, cotton balls, and dental floss: Not biodegradable and can easily get stuck in pipes.
• Hair: Hair clumps, especially problematic in bathroom drains, can form gnarly blockages, obstructing water flow.
• Soap scum: Soap’s fatty acids combine with minerals in water to create a hard residue that sticks to pipes, building up and causing blockages over time.
• Food particles: Kitchen drains often get blocked with coffee grounds, tea leaves, small fruit pits, and starchy foods like pasta and rice, which expand in water and clog the pipes.

It’s essential to dispose of these items properly to prevent blockages. Items like small toys, jewellery, or even cleaning cloths can also accidentally slip into drains, exacerbating the clogging issue by trapping other debris. Keeping an eye out for any small items that could fall into drains is vital.

Impact of Grease and Fat on Drainage Systems

Cooking grease and fat, when poured down the drain, solidify as they cool, clinging to pipe walls and eventually forming blockages. Grease and oil may enter the drain as liquids, but they solidify quickly, contributing to larger issues over time. 

These substances can create “fatbergs”—large, solid clumps in sewer lines that block water flow, cause sewer overflows, and lead to environmental damage.

To prevent blockages from grease, let fats and oils cool and dispose of them in a sealed container in the trash. This simple habit can help maintain clear pipes and prevent larger issues in the municipal sewer system.

The Role of Tree Roots in Drain Blockages

Tree roots are another common cause of drain blockages. As trees grow, their roots naturally seek water sources, often infiltrating underground pipes. This can cause pipes to crack or collapse, leading to severe blockages and reduced water flow.

Certain tree species, like willows and oaks, are particularly problematic because they have aggressive root systems that easily infiltrate drainage lines. Regularly maintaining trees near drainage systems can help prevent this issue, and it’s wise to avoid planting trees with invasive roots near your property’s sewer lines.

Identifying a Blocked Drain

Recognising the signs of a blocked drain early on can prevent more significant issues and costly repairs down the line. Here are the most common indicators:

Signs and Symptoms of a Blocked Drain

Blocked drains often give a few warning signals. Look out for:

• Slow-draining sinks: Water draining more slowly than usual is a typical sign of a blockage.
• Gurgling noises: Air trapped in pipes can cause strange gurgling sounds, particularly when flushing the toilet.
• Unpleasant odours: Decomposing materials in blocked pipes emit foul smells, especially from kitchen sinks.
• Water pooling around the drain: If water is gathering and not draining, this is a clear sign of a blockage. In yards, water pooling can signal underground blockages that require immediate attention.

Additionally, you might notice fruit flies or other pests around drains, which often indicate decomposing organic matter trapped in the pipes. Ignoring these signs can lead to worsening blockages.

The Consequences of Ignoring a Blocked Drain

Ignoring a blocked drain can lead to several issues:

• Increased pest activity: Stagnant water attracts pests and can lead to infestations.
• Property damage: Unchecked blockages can lead to burst pipes and water damage.
• Health risks: Standing water becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and mould, which can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies.

Addressing a blocked drain as soon as possible is essential to maintain a safe, healthy home environment.

Tools Needed for Clearing Blocked Drains

Having the right tools on hand makes clearing blocked drains easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Tools for Drain Cleaning

For common blockages, keep these tools in your toolkit:

• Plunger: Plungers create pressure to dislodge obstructions, and a well-fitted plunger can clear most minor clogs.
• Drain snake (or auger): This tool helps reach and break up clogs deeper in the pipes, especially hair and solid obstructions that plungers can’t handle.
• Bucket and gloves: These are essential for handling dirty water and avoiding direct contact with the debris inside your pipes.

When using a plunger, create a tight seal around the drain opening to maximise the pressure. You may need to plunge a few times to see results. For tougher blockages, move on to advanced tools.

Advanced Equipment for Stubborn Blockages

Some blockages require more sophisticated equipment:

• Drain cameras: Also known as sewer cameras, these devices allow you to visually inspect pipes and locate the exact source of the blockage. Drain cameras are ideal for identifying tree roots, grease buildup, or foreign objects that are causing the obstruction.
• High-pressure water jetters: These use powerful streams of water to blast away tough clogs, including mineral deposits, sludge, and tree roots. High-pressure jetters require skill, so if you’re unfamiliar with operating them, it’s best to call a professional plumber.

Techniques for Clearing Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can often be cleared using straightforward DIY methods. Here’s how to tackle them:

DIY Solutions: Natural Methods

For minor blockages, try these eco-friendly solutions before resorting to chemical cleaners:

• Boiling water: Pouring boiling water down the drain can dissolve soap scum, minor grease clogs, and other residues.
• Baking soda and vinegar: Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar, pour the mixture down the drain, and let it sit for about 20 minutes. The fizzing reaction can break down blockages and help dislodge debris. Rinse with hot water.

Chemical Solutions: Effective but Risky

Chemical drain cleaners contain strong substances that can dissolve tough blockages, but they can also damage pipes. Overuse of these cleaners can lead to erosion and pipe leaks. Always follow the instructions and wear gloves to protect your skin.

Caustic cleaners are one example, as they dissolve grease and fat effectively, making them suitable for tough blockages. However, caustic cleaners should be used sparingly and only as a last resort due to their impact on pipes and the environment.

Mechanical Techniques for Removing Blockages

If natural methods fail, try mechanical techniques:

• Drain snakes: These tools physically break apart and remove obstructions and are especially useful for hair clogs. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to break apart the clog.
• Plumber’s augers: Larger versions of drain snake augers are more effective for extensive or deeper blockages.

Mechanical tools require patience, and if you’re unsure, it may be best to call a professional plumber for assistance.

Preventing Future Drain Blockages

Prevention is the best way to keep your drains clear. Follow these steps:

Best Practices for Drain Maintenance

Routine maintenance can help prevent blockages:

• Pour boiling water down drains weekly to dissolve minor buildups.
• Install drain guards or strainers to catch hair, food particles, and other debris.
• Avoid pouring grease or fat down drains, and instead dispose of it in the trash in a sealed container.

Drain guards and mesh covers that capture solid waste are available in various sizes to fit kitchen and bathroom drains. Regularly cleaning the guards and flushing drains with hot water can help reduce buildup and keep water flowing smoothly.

Products and Items to Avoid

Avoid washing down the following items to keep drains clear:

• Sanitary products and wet wipes: These don’t break down easily and can cause clogs.
• Grease and oil: These harden as they cool and stick to the sides of pipes.
• Food particles: Small particles like coffee grounds, eggshells, and pasta expand in water, leading to kitchen drain blockages.

Keeping these items out of drains and implementing regular maintenance can help maintain a healthy plumbing system.

Final Thoughts 

Blocked drains are a common yet preventable issue. By understanding the causes of clogs and implementing regular maintenance practices, you can avoid the hassle and cost of blocked drains. 

If DIY efforts don’t work, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Maintaining a clear drainage system keeps your home safe, clean, and hassle-free.

For residents in Sydney, Sewer Surgeon offers reliable plumbing solutions, including emergency blocked drain services. With over 63 years of combined experience, we are your trusted experts in drain management. 

Contact us today to prevent small issues from becoming major plumbing emergencies.

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FAQs

What causes blocked drains?

Blocked drains are commonly caused by hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, oil, and small objects like toys. Additionally, tree roots can infiltrate outdoor pipes and lead to blockages over time.

Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?

Chemical cleaners are effective but can damage pipes if overused. They’re best used sparingly and as a last resort. For recurring or persistent blockages, it’s often wiser to consult a professional plumber.

How do I prevent grease buildup in my drains?

Avoid pouring cooking grease or oil down the drain. Let it cool,l and throw it in the trash in a sealed container.

What should I do if DIY attempts to clear a drain fail?

If you’ve tried DIY methods and the blockage persists, it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid further damage to your plumbing system.

Can tree roots really damage my drainage system?

Yes, tree roots are a major cause of outdoor drain blockages. They can penetrate small cracks in pipes, grow, and eventually cause significant damage that requires professional intervention.