5 Reasons Why Your Drains May Be Blocked

Is your toilet not flushing properly, or is your sink emptying slowly? These are all common symptoms of a blocked drain. This common issue can reoccur or worsen if not treated promptly. 

While applying a band-aid fix such as drain cleaners may be easier, depending on the extent and cause of the block, they may not resolve the problem. Therefore, getting to the root of the problem is valuable to understand what is happening and prevent the same issue from reoccurring. 

Here are some of the most common causes of drain blockages that you can keep an eye out for. 

1. Food waste 

Food waste, oils and fats are notorious for causing blocked drains. When washing dishes, it may be easier to rinse these down the sink, thinking that it won't matter, but it can end up blocking the pipes. 

Foods such as rice and pasta swell when exposed to water, and when cooled, cooking fats solidify, resulting in a blockage. Minor blockages may be cleared with home remedies like hot water, bicarb soda or vinegar, but significant blockages may require professional help. 

Additionally, consider using environmentally friendly options for food disposal, such as a compost bin.

2. Hair 

One of the most common causes of a blocked pipe is hair. When enough hair is washed down the drain, it bands together and creates a mesh that traps soap slurry, shampoo and conditioner. Eventually, with enough time and repeated use, the pipe will become blocked, and your shower or bath may drain slower or back up. 

This can be prevented by investing in a hair trap that goes over the drainage hole and can stop hair from being washed down the drain.

3. Leaves, dirt and sticks

If left unmaintained, garden debris will build up. Items like leaves, dirt and sticks can carry into outside drains with rain and create a jam. 

Storms and increased wind can blow leaves into gutters, and grass or weeds can grow if left unattended for long periods.

And, if your gutters are clogged during heavy rains, the rainwater will be unable to clear away. This can lead to corrosion, leaks inside your home and other costly damages that your insurance might not cover. 

We recommend having your gutters cleaned yearly and keeping your gardens well-maintained by removing leaves and other debris that can clog drains. 

4. Toiletries, wipes or paper towel

It's a common misconception that wipes and paper towel can be flushed down the toilet. However, unlike toilet paper that disintegrates with water, these items are quite thick. Therefore if flushed down the toilet, they risk blocking pipes altogether. 

As a rule of thumb, only the 3 P’s should be flushed down the toilet. These are Pee, Poo and toilet Paper. All other items, such as paper towel, wipes and sanitary items, etc., should be placed in a bin. 

5. Tree roots

Tree roots are naturally attracted to water sources underground. If a pipe under your home has cracked, roots can worm their way in and expand the entry point, causing more and more damage as it goes unnoticed. 

In addition, if points in the pipes are weak, tree roots can break through. The only way to be aware of this is to conduct regular inspections of the drainage system around your home. We recommend doing this at least every five years. 

The best resolution to these common issues is prevention. However, if you have been caught unaware and are experiencing problems with your drains, feel free to call our friendly team at Aqua Tap Plumbing on (03) 9369 0144, and we'll be happy to help.