Blocked Drains in Perth — Causes, Prevention & When to Call a Plumber

1. Blocked Drains in Perth — Causes, Prevention & — Causes, Prevention & When to Call a Plumber When to Call a Plumber

2. Introduction Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems Perth households face. Whether it’s a slow-draining shower, a kitchen sink backup, or water pooling outside near your garden, these issues can bring your daily routine to a halt. Worse, if left unchecked, blockages can lead to burst pipes, water damage, or even health hazards. The good news? With a little awareness and regular maintenance, you can prevent most blockages — and deal with them before they cause expensive damage.

3. A blockage occurs when something obstructs the water’s path inside your pipes. While clogged drains happen everywhere, Perth has a few unique factors that make them more common: Why Drains Block Up in Perth SANDY SOIL OLDER PIPE SYSTEMS This pressure pipework, leading to cracks where debris or roots can enter can shift on and put Many older Perth homes still have clay or galvanised steel pipes that are more prone to damage and corrosion. If you’ve noticed your drains blocking up regularly, it’s a sign you should residential plumber in Perth for a professional inspection before the damage becomes extensive. underground call a TREE-LINED STREETS AND GARDENS HIGH MINERAL CONTENT IN WATER Popular Jacarandas and Figs have aggressive roots that can seek out water sources in pipes. Perth trees like Over time, mineral build-up can narrow especially if they’re already partially blocked. your pipes,

4. 6 Common Causes of Blocked Drains Grease and Cooking Oils Tree Root Damage Hair Build-Up Hair Strands can wrap around themselves and combine with soap residue to form stubborn clumps. Showers, bathtubs, and bathroom basins are especially prone. When grease, fat, or cooking oil is poured down the sink, it cools and solidifies inside the pipes. making clogs almost inevitable. Tree roots are surprisingly powerful. They can enter pipes through tiny cracks, expanding over time until they completely block the flow or cause the pipe to collapse. ? Prevention Tip: Install a drain strainer in showers and basins, and clean it every few days. ? Prevention Tip: Let oils and fats cool, then scrape them into the bin. For mild build-up, flush the kitchen drain with boiling water and dishwashing liquid every week. ? Prevention Tip: If your yard has large trees, arrange a CCTV drain inspection every couple of years. This allows plumbers to detect and cut roots before they cause major damage.

5. 6 Common Causes of Blocked Drains Detergent Residue Poor Pipe Installation Foreign Objects Items like wet wipes, sanitary products, nappies, and even excessive toilet paper can block drains quickly. Bar soaps, especially those with added fats, can create a hard residue (soap scum) that clings to pipes. Over time, this narrows the pipe and slows water flow. If your plumbing was installed with incorrect slope (fall) or poor-quality fittings, blockages will occur more often. Water may pool in low spots, allowing debris to settle and harden. ? Prevention Tip: Keep a small bin in the bathroom for non- flushables, and remind household members to only flush toilet paper and human waste. ? Prevention Tip: Switch to liquid soap or body wash where possible. In laundry sinks, use liquid detergents and run hot water for a minute after each wash to flush away residue. ? Prevention Tip: Have a licensed Perth plumber inspect the installation. Sometimes a small adjustment can eliminate years of recurring issues.

6. Drain Maintenance & Prevention Tips Install sink and shower strainers to catch hair, food, and debris. Dispose of kitchen waste properly — avoid pouring oil, coffee grounds, and food scraps down the sink. Use gentle, enzyme-based drain cleaners once a month to break down organic matter. Flush drains with hot water weekly to help dissolve minor build-up.

7. When to Call a Plumber Y o u s h o u l d b o o k a p r o f e s s i o n a l e m e r g e n c y p l u m b e r i n P e r t h i f : Water is backing up into sinks, showers, or toilets Multiple drains are blocked at once. You notice a foul odour coming from drains. Gurgling noises occur when using water fixtures

8. FAQs 1. Can I use chemical drain cleaners? C h e m i c a l c l e a n e r s m a y w o r k f o r s m a l l c l o g s b u t c a n d a m a g e o l d e r o r P V C p i p e s . E n z y m e - b a s e d c l e a n e r s a r e s a f e r f o r l o n g - t e r m u s e . 2. How do I know if roots are the problem? R e c u r r i n g b l o c k a g e s , g u r g l i n g s o u n d s , a n d s l o w d r a i n a g e i n m u l t i p l e f i x t u r e s a r e c o m m o n s i g n s . A C C T V i n s p e c t i o n i s t h e o n l y w a y t o c o n f i r m . 3. Why do my drains keep blocking? P e r s i s t e n t b l o c k a g e s c a n b e c a u s e d b y p o o r p i p e i n s t a l l a t i o n , h i d d e n c r a c k s , o r b u i l d - u p d e e p i n t h e s y s t e m . A p l u m b e r c a n i d e n t i f y t h e r o o t c a u s e . 4. Does insurance cover this? S o m e h o m e i n s u r a n c e p o l i c i e s c o v e r s u d d e n d a m a g e ( l i k e a b u r s t p i p e ) b u t n o t g r a d u a l b l o c k a g e s c a u s e d b y n e g l e c t . A l w a y s c h e c k y o u r p o l i c y d e t a i l s .

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