Blocked drains can disrupt your home and lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a clogged shower, or a blocked toilet, understanding how to resolve minor issues and knowing when to call a professional can save you time and money. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips to clear blocked drains and prevent future problems.

Common Causes of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are often caused by everyday activities, but understanding these common culprits can help you avoid them:

Hair Build-Up: Hair tends to accumulate in bathroom drains, forming stubborn clogs.

Grease and Food Scraps: In kitchens, grease solidifies and food scraps stick to pipes, restricting water flow.

Foreign Objects: Items like wipes, sanitary products, and even small toys can easily clog toilets and drains.

Tree Roots: In Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs, tree roots often invade underground pipes, leading to severe blockages.

DIY Tips for Clearing Blocked Drains

Here are a few methods to tackle minor blockages before calling in a plumber:

1. Use a Plunger:
A plunger is one of the simplest tools to clear a drain. Ensure the plunger forms a seal over the drain, then push and pull vigorously to dislodge the blockage.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar:
Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water. This natural method works well for grease build-up.

3. Drain Snake or Wire Hanger:
Insert a plumbing snake or an unbent wire hanger into the drain to manually remove blockages. This is especially effective for hair clogs in bathroom drains.

4. Hot Water Flush:
For grease-related clogs, pour a kettle of boiling water slowly down the drain. Repeat a few times to dissolve the grease.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While DIY methods can handle minor clogs, more severe blockages require professional attention. Here’s when to seek help:

• Recurring Blockages: If the problem persists despite DIY efforts, it may indicate a deeper issue.
• Water Back-Ups: Water returning through sinks or showers signals a major blockage.
• Multiple Drains Affected: Simultaneous clogs in multiple fixtures often point to sewer line issues.
• Tree Root Intrusion: Advanced tools like CCTV inspections are needed to identify and remove roots from pipes.

Preventing Blocked Drains

Prevention is better than cure. Follow these tips to keep your drains clear:

• Schedule regular drain maintenance with a professional plumber.
• Use drain covers to catch hair and debris.
• Avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the sink.
• Flush only toilet paper—no wipes or sanitary products.

How Pro-Action Plumbing Can Help

At Pro-Action Plumbing, we specialise in clearing blocked drains quickly and effectively. Serving Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs, we use advanced tools like CCTV inspections and high-pressure jetting to identify and resolve blockages. Our licensed team is available 24/7 to tackle plumbing emergencies.

Call to Action

Struggling with a blocked drain? Contact Pro-Action Plumbing at 0419 314 505 or book online for fast and reliable service in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs. Our experienced team is here to help!