Blocked drains can cause significant disruptions, but not all blockages are the same. Sewer and stormwater drains serve different purposes and require different solutions when blocked. Here’s how to distinguish between the two and what to do if you encounter an issue.

What’s the Difference Between Sewer and Stormwater Drains?

• Sewer Drains: These carry wastewater from your home’s toilets, sinks, and showers to the sewer system or septic tank.
• Stormwater Drains: These manage rainwater, directing it away from your property to prevent flooding.

Causes of Blockages

Blocked Sewer Drains:

• Grease and food scraps from kitchen sinks.
• Wet wipes, sanitary products, and other foreign objects flushed down toilets.
• Tree roots invading underground pipes.

Blocked Stormwater Drains:

• Leaves, dirt, and debris washed into outdoor drains.
• Broken or misaligned pipes.
• Tree roots entering through cracks in the system.

Signs of a Blocked Drain

Sewer Drains:

• Slow-draining sinks, showers, or toilets.
• Water backing up into fixtures.
• Foul odours near drains.

Stormwater Drains:

• Pooling water around your property after rain.
• Overflowing gutters or downpipes.
• Slow-draining outdoor grates.

How to Fix Blocked Drains

If DIY methods like plunging or using a drain snake don’t work, professional intervention is needed. Pro-Action Plumbing offers:

• CCTV Inspections: Advanced cameras locate the exact source of the blockage.
• High-Pressure Water Jetting: Clears stubborn debris and tree roots effectively.
• Pipe Relining: For severe damage, we reinforce pipes from the inside without excavation.

Preventing Future Blockages

• Use strainers on sinks and showers to catch debris.
• Regularly clean gutters and outdoor drains.
• Schedule routine plumbing inspections.

Call to Action

Dealing with a blocked sewer or stormwater drain? Contact Pro-Action Plumbing at 0419 314 505 or book online for expert solutions in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs.