Blocked Drains? Quick Fixes and When to Call a Pro

Blocked drains can happen at any time and are one of the most common household plumbing issues. 

From slow-draining sinks to overflowing toilets, a blockage can throw your daily routine into chaos. 

The good news? Not all blocked drains require a plumber. Many blockages can be resolved with a quick fix, but how do you know when it’s time to call in a professional? Blocked drains quick fix methods can help, but certain situations may need expert intervention to avoid bigger problems.

Let’s dive into some quick fixes for minor blockages and explore the signs that indicate it’s time to call a plumber. 

With the right knowledge of how to unblock drains, you can tackle common issues and prevent expensive repairs.

What Causes Blocked Drains?

Before tackling a blocked drain, it’s essential to understand the causes. Drain blockages can stem from a variety of issues, some of which are easier to fix than others. 

The common culprits include:

• Hair: It’s one of the most frequent causes of blockages in bathroom drains.
  
  
• Grease and Soap Scum: Particularly in kitchen sinks, grease and soap residue can accumulate and block your pipes.
  
  
• Food Debris: Leftover food and small particles can create a solid barrier inside drains.
  
  
• Tree Roots: Roots can infiltrate underground pipes, causing significant blockages.
  
  
• Foreign Objects: Items such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and even toys can accidentally block drains.
  
  

Knowing what causes blocked drains can help you prevent future blockages and make the right call when it’s time to seek help. 

Quick Fixes for Blocked Drains

Not every blockage needs a professional plumber. There are simple, DIY methods that can clear minor blockages and save you from unnecessary plumbing costs.

1. Boiling Water – The Easiest Solution

Best for: Kitchen sinks blocked with grease and soap build-up.

How to do it:

• Boil a kettle of water.
  
  
• Slowly pour the boiling water down the drain in stages.
  
  
• Wait a few minutes and test if the water drains away.
  
  

Note: Avoid using boiling water on PVC pipes or severe blockages.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar – The Natural Cleaner

Best for: Hair, grease, and minor build-up in bathroom drains.

How to do it:

• Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain.
  
  
• Follow with half a cup of vinegar.
  
  
• Cover the drain and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  
  
• Rinse with hot water to clear the debris.
  
  

This natural solution creates a fizzing reaction that helps break down the block, deodorises and keeps things fresh.

3. Plunging – The Classic Fix

Best for: Local blockages in sinks, bathtubs, and toilets.

How to do it:

• Use a cup plunger for sinks or a flange plunger for toilets.
  
  
• Make sure to create a tight seal around the drain.
  
  
• Pump vigorously 10 to 15 times to dislodge the blockage.
  
  

Plunging works by creating a vacuum effect that can loosen debris stuck in the drain.

4. Drain Snakes – Getting Deeper into the Pipes

Best for: Blockages caused by hair, solid debris, and deep blocks.

How to do it:

• Insert the drain snake into the blocked drain.
  
  
• Rotate gently and push the snake deeper into the pipe.
  
  
• Pull back to remove any trapped debris.
  
  

A drain snake can reach deeper into your pipes to remove stubborn blockages.

5. Enzyme Drain Cleaners – A Safer Alternative

Best for: Organic waste build-up and preventative maintenance.

How to do it:

• Pour the recommended amount of enzyme cleaner down the drain.
  
  
• Let it sit overnight.
  
  
• Rinse with warm water the next day.
  
  

Enzyme cleaners are a safer alternative to harsh chemicals, breaking down organic material without harming your pipes.

When to Call a Plumber for Blocked Drains

Some blockages are beyond DIY fixes. If you’ve tried the blocked drain quick fix methods above and the problem persists, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Water Backing Up into Fixtures

If you notice water backing up into your sinks, tubs, or toilets, this could indicate a blockage in the main drain line. This type of issue requires expert intervention to prevent potential damage to your property.

Why Call a Pro:

Persistent backflow may indicate a more significant blockage in the plumbing system, and professional plumbers have the tools to fix this safely.

2. Persistent Foul Odours

A foul, rotten smell emanating from your drains could be a sign that organic material or sewage is trapped. If cleaning your drains doesn’t eliminate the smell, it’s time to bring in a plumber.

Why Call a Pro:

A bad smell often signals a more severe issue, like a blockage in the main sewer line, which requires professional tools to resolve.

3. Recurring Blockages

If you’re constantly dealing with blocked drains despite using DIY fixes, there might be a deeper problem like tree roots or severe grease build-up.

Why Call a Pro:

A plumber can inspect your pipes using advanced equipment and provide a long-term solution, such as hydro-jetting or pipe relining.

4. Gurgling Noises

Gurgling sounds coming from your drains or toilet are usually a sign of trapped air due to a blockage. This can often be a warning of a more significant issue in the pipes.

Why Call a Pro:

Gurgling noises might indicate air pockets forming in the plumbing, a sign of a major blockage that needs professional attention.

5. Water Damage or Leaks

If you notice water damage, damp patches, or leaks around your drains, it could indicate a burst pipe or severe blockage. Immediate action is necessary to prevent costly damage to your home.

Why Call a Pro:

Water damage can lead to mould, mildew, and structural damage. A plumber can resolve the issue quickly to prevent further damage.

Preventative Measures to Keep Your Drains Clear

The best way to deal with blocked drains is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some preventative tips to keep your drains flowing freely:

1. Use Sink Strainers

Install strainers in your kitchen and bathroom sinks to catch food scraps, hair, and soap scum before they go down the drain.

2. Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

Grease solidifies in pipes, causing blockages over time. Always dispose of grease in the trash.

3. Flush Drains Weekly with Hot Water

Flushing your drains with hot water once a week helps break down grease and soap build-up befbuildup turns into a serious blockage.

4. Clean Your Drain Traps Regularly

Clean your drain traps every few months to remove build-up that can lead to blocks.

5. Use Enzyme Drain Cleaners for Maintenance

Enzyme cleaners can be used periodically to break down organic material and keep your drains in top shape.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Blocked Drains Ruin Your Day – Call Sewer Surgeon

Blocked drains are frustrating, but with the right quick fixes and preventative measures, you can keep your plumbing system in good condition. 

However, when DIY solutions don’t work, or the blockage is more serious, it’s time to call in the professionals. At Sewer Surgeon, we provide fast, reliable, and affordable drain-clearing services across Sydney. Our expert plumbers use advanced tools to quickly diagnose and solve complex drain issues.

For quick fixes to blocked drains and expert plumbing services, call 1300 734 677.

FAQs

Should I call plumbing services when my drains become blocked?

If DIY methods fail, or if multiple drains are affected, it’s time to call a plumber. Persistent blockages or foul smells often signal a deeper issue that requires professional intervention.

What tools do professional plumbers use to clear blocked drains?

Plumbers use advanced tools like CCTV cameras for drain inspection, high-pressure water jets for cleaning, and motorized drain snakes to remove tough blockages.

How can I unblock drains naturally?

Boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, and enzyme cleaners are safe, natural solutions for clearing minor blockages.

Can I prevent blocked drains?

Yes! Regularly cleaning your drains, avoiding grease disposal, and using strainers to catch debris are effective preventative measures.

When should I call a plumber for a blocked drain?

Call a plumber if water backs up, odours persist, or the blockage doesn’t clear with DIY methods. Persistent blockages or water damage should always be addressed by a professional.