Keep Your Drains Clear and Flowing
Blocked drains are one of the most common — and most preventable — plumbing problems Australian homeowners face. A little awareness and regular maintenance can save you from costly emergency call-outs and potential water damage.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
Understanding what causes blockages is the first step to preventing them:
Kitchen drains are most commonly blocked by grease, oil, and food scraps. When hot grease cools inside your pipes, it solidifies and traps other debris, gradually narrowing the pipe until water can't pass through.
Bathroom drains typically suffer from hair, soap scum, and product build-up. Hair is the number one culprit — it tangles around drain components and catches other debris.
Outdoor drains are vulnerable to tree root intrusion, leaf litter, and soil. Tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture in your pipes and can crack or completely block them over time.
Prevention Tips for Every Room
#### In the Kitchen
- Never pour cooking oil or grease down the drain — let it cool and dispose of it in the bin
- Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps
- Run hot water down the drain after each use to help flush residue
- Once a month, pour boiling water down the drain to dissolve minor grease build-up
#### In the Bathroom
- Install drain guards or hair catchers in showers and basins
- Clean drain guards weekly
- Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper — no wipes (even "flushable" ones), cotton buds, or sanitary products
- Rinse drains with hot water regularly
#### Outside
- Keep gutters and outdoor drains clear of leaves and debris
- Be mindful of tree placement near sewer lines
- Have your stormwater drains inspected annually, especially before the wet season
When to Call a Professional
If you notice any of these warning signs, it's time to call a plumber:
- Water draining slowly in multiple fixtures
- Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets
- Unpleasant odours coming from drains
- Water backing up in sinks, showers, or floor drains
- Wet patches or unusually green grass in your yard (possible sewer leak)
Professional Drain Maintenance
At 3rd Generation Plumbing, we use CCTV drain cameras to inspect your pipes and identify problems before they become emergencies. Our high-pressure water jetting service clears even the toughest blockages without damaging your pipes.
We recommend a professional drain inspection every 2–3 years, or annually if you have large trees near your sewer lines.
Keep Your Drains Happy
Prevention is always cheaper than repair. By following these simple tips and scheduling regular maintenance, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of blocked drains. If you do run into trouble, call us on 0499 599 658 — we're always happy to help.
