Top 8 Causes of Blocked Drains in Sydney and How to Fix Them

Let’s say you’re rinsing off the dishes, and the water should swirl down the drain smoothly, but instead, it starts pooling around your feet, a murky, foul-smelling mix that’s not going anywhere fast. This is an unmistakable sign of a blocked drain. In Sydney, blocked drains are a common household problem, leading to unpleasant smells, slow drainage, and even costly repairs. But what causes these frustrating blockages, and more importantly, how can you prevent them? Let’s dive into the causes of blocked drains in Sydney and explore practical solutions to keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly.

What are Common Causes of Blocked Drains in Sydney?

Blocked drains in Sydney can happen for a variety of reasons. From everyday household habits to environmental factors, several culprits are responsible for the frustrating and often disruptive problem of slow or completely clogged drains. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)

Fats, oils, and grease are the leading causes of blocked drains in Sydney. When poured down the sink, they may initially seem liquid but quickly cool and harden as they enter the pipes. Over time, this build-up narrows the pipe diameter, creating a sticky blockage that traps other debris. This is particularly problematic in kitchen sinks, where fats from cooking oils, butter, and leftover food waste accumulate.

Solution: To avoid blocked drains caused by FOG, let fats, oils, and grease cool, then dispose of them in a container before throwing them in the bin. Additionally, cleaning your kitchen sink regularly and using a drain strainer can help prevent grease from slipping through.

2. Tree Root Intrusions

One of the surprising causes of blocked drains in Sydney is it’s gorgeous natural environment and large trees. Tree roots naturally seek out water sources, and the moist environment of underground pipes can attract roots that crack and invade your plumbing system. Once inside, the roots grow, causing severe blockages that can lead to significant pipe damage if left untreated.

Solution: The only effective way to remove tree roots from pipes is by hiring a professional plumber, such as those at Sydney Plumbing Group. They can inspect your pipes and use specialist tools to clear the roots without damaging the rest of your plumbing system. Regular maintenance of your drainage system can also help prevent tree roots from entering in the first place.

3. Hair Build-up

We’ve all experienced the annoyance of a slow-draining shower. One of the main culprits? Hair build-up. As hair washes down the drain, it forms clumps that mix with soap scum, dirt, and other debris, resulting in a dense blockage. Bathrooms are particularly susceptible to this issue, and without regular cleaning, hair clogs can lead to a complete drain blockage.

Solution: Invest in a drain cover or hair catcher to trap hair before it goes down the drain. Cleaning the catcher regularly can prevent a future blockage. If a clog has already formed, try using a plumbing snake or contacting a professional plumber for assistance.

4. Soap Scum

Although soap seems harmless, the fat content in some soap bars can react with the minerals in your water, creating a hard, scaly residue known as soap scum. Over time, soap scum can build up on the walls of your pipes, gradually narrowing the space for water to flow. This eventually causes blocked drains in Sydney, especially vulnerable to this issue are homes with hard water.

Solution: To prevent soap scum build-up, switch to liquid soap or body wash, which doesn’t contain the same fatty acids that form scum. Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can also help dissolve any potential build-up before it becomes a significant problem.

5. Flushing Non-Flushable Items

One of the most common causes of blocked drains in Sydney is the improper disposal of non-flushable items in the toilet. Items like baby wipes, sanitary products, paper towels, and cotton balls do not break down easily and can accumulate in your pipes, creating stubborn clogs. Even products labelled as “flushable” can cause problems, as they take much longer to decompose than toilet paper.

Solution: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Keep a small bin in your bathroom for non-flushable items, ensuring that they are disposed of properly. Educating your household about what can and cannot go down the toilet can also prevent blockages.

6. Foreign Objects in Drains

Sometimes, blockages occur when foreign objects accidentally find their way into your drains. This could include anything from children’s toys in the toilet to food scraps in the kitchen sink. Once lodged in the pipes, these objects can cause severe blockages and even pipe damage if not removed promptly.

Solution: To prevent foreign objects from blocking your drains, be mindful of what goes down the sink or toilet. Using sink strainers and teaching children not to flush or drop items down the toilet can prevent accidental clogs.

7. Broken or Collapsed Pipes

Sydney’s older homes are especially vulnerable to broken or collapsed pipes. Over time, pipes can deteriorate due to age, ground movement, or even poor installation. When a pipe collapses, it can lead to an immediate blockage, cutting off water flow entirely and causing water to back up into your home.

Solution: Broken or collapsed pipes require immediate attention from a professional plumber. Sydney Plumbing Group can inspect your system using advanced tools like CCTV cameras and recommend the best course of action, which may involve pipe relining or replacement.

8. Stormwater Runoff and Debris

Heavy rains and storms in Sydney can lead to blocked outdoor drains. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can wash into your stormwater drains, clogging the pipes and causing water to pool around your property. Blocked stormwater drains can lead to flooding and significant property damage if not addressed quickly.

Solution: To prevent blocked stormwater drains, regularly clean gutters and outdoor drains, especially before the rainy season. Installing a leaf guard over your gutters can also help prevent leaves and debris from clogging your stormwater system.

How to Prevent Blocked Drains in Sydney

While blocked drains are common, they’re often preventable with a few simple practices. Here are some tips to keep your drains clear and functioning smoothly:

1. Regular Maintenance: Have your plumbing system inspected by a professional plumber annually to catch any potential problems before they turn into major blockages.
2. Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of fats, oils, and food scraps in the bin, not down the drain. Also, ensure only toilet paper is flushed, and use sink strainers to catch hair and other debris.
3. Install Gutter Guards: Prevent outdoor drains from clogging by installing guards that block leaves and other debris from entering your stormwater system.
4. Be Aware of Tree Roots: If you have large trees near your property, consider having your pipes inspected for root intrusions. Early detection can save you from a major blockage or costly pipe repairs later.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Blocked Drains Ruin Your Day

Blocked drains in Sydney are more than just an inconvenience—they can lead to severe damage and costly repairs if not addressed quickly. Whether caused by tree roots, hair build-up, or improper waste disposal, blocked drains are preventable with a few smart habits and regular maintenance. If you’re dealing with a stubborn blockage, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Sydney Plumbing Group for professional assistance. With their expertise and cutting-edge tools, they can tackle any drain issue, keeping your plumbing system running smoothly year-round.