Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues and, understandably, very annoying ones. But why do your drains get blocked?

Here are some of the most common causes of blocked drains that our plumbers have encountered over the years.

Reasons why drains get blocked

Kitchen Waste Build up

Fat and grease that gets washed down the kitchen sink after cooking are the main culprits of blocked drains. Food waste and scraps can accumulate over time to the point where they create a blockage.

Kids Putting Toys Down the Toilet Bowl

Kids can get some of the craziest ideas sometimes. We had many situations where we were called for a blocked drain, and we found toys and other foreign objects flushed down the toilet. Unfortunately, these objects can create drain blockages affecting the entire plumbing system.

If you want to avoid clogged drains, you should ensure that nothing except toilet paper (and sometimes not even that) is flushed down the toilet.

Wet Wipes Being Flushed Down the Toilet

Wet wipes and paper towels can also block the water flow. The same stays true for human waste that is flushed down the toilet.

Broken Pipes

If the pipes are not well maintained, they can break. Regular wear and tear can sometimes affect your drains and pipes, leading to blockages. If so, you will need a professional plumber’s help.

It’s essential to call a plumber immediately and fix the problem when you detect it. One minor issue can affect the entire plumbing system as everything is connected, like tree roots. A problem in your bathroom can affect other areas of your home too.

How to Handle a Blocked Drain?

Depending on the severity of the blockage, you may be able to unclog the drain using simple drain cleaners. It would be best to prioritise drain cleaning to avoid future incidents.

Here are some tips that can help you manage a blocked drain:

• Pour hot water to melt away fat and food scraps
• Use chemical drain cleaners that you can buy from the supermarket
• Pour hot water mixed with vinegar down the drain to remove the blockage
• Be aware of what you throw down the kitchen sink
• Do not throw foreign objects down the toilet
• Avoid flushing wet wipes and paper towels
• Do not throw food waste and scraps down the sink.

Contacting a professional plumber is better if you’re unsure what caused the problem.

Wilco Plumbing Is Here to Help You!

Whether it’s a blocked drain, a burst pipe, or a leaky toilet, we are ready to help Sydney residents fix their plumbing issues. We offer affordable rates, quality services, and a skilled and professional plumbers team. And because we know plumbing issues can happen anytime, we also provide emergency plumbing service.

Don’t hesitate to call us on (02) 9186 3371 whenever you have a problem.