A blocked drain can quickly become a headache, leading to unpleasant smells, slow drainage and even water damage. But what exactly causes these blockages? In this guide, MPJ Plumbing Group shares the 10 most common causes of blocked drains and some simple DIY solutions to get your drains flowing again.
Top 10 common causes of blocked drains
1. Hair
Hair is one of the most frequent offenders, particularly in bathroom sinks and showers. It easily binds together, forming clumps that can block water flow. Over time, this hair mixes with soap scum, making the blockage even tougher to remove.
2. Soap scum
Soap doesn’t dissolve entirely in water, especially when it reacts with the minerals found in hard water. The residue left behind gradually builds up along the walls of pipes, leading to narrowed flow areas and eventual blockages. This is especially common in bathrooms where soap use is heavy.
3. Food scraps
When food scraps get washed down the kitchen sink, they don’t always make it out the other end. Even small particles, especially starchy or fibrous ones, can accumulate and block the pipes. If you don’t have a garbage disposal, these food particles can quickly create a clog.
4. Grease and fat
Pouring grease or fat down the drain is a recipe for disaster. Although it might go down in liquid form, it solidifies as it cools. Once hardened, it sticks to the sides of pipes and gradually builds up until water can no longer pass through.
5. Wet wipes
Wet wipes, even those labelled as “flushable”, don’t break down as easily as toilet paper. When flushed, they often combine with other debris in the pipes, creating stubborn clogs that can affect the entire sewer system. These blockages can lead to serious plumbing issues if not addressed.
6. Foreign objects
Items such as toys, cotton swabs and even jewellery can accidentally end up in the drain, especially in households with children. These objects don’t belong in the plumbing system and can create immediate blockages that are difficult to dislodge without professional blocked drain repair.
7. Tree roots
Tree roots are constantly searching for moisture. Over time, they can infiltrate underground pipes, particularly in older systems. As roots grow into the pipes, they can cause cracks and blockages, eventually leading to major plumbing issues if left unchecked.
8. Toilet paper overuse
While toilet paper is meant to break down in water, flushing too much at once can cause it to bunch up and clog your pipes. This is particularly problematic in old plumbing systems, where pipes may already be narrower or prone to blockages.
9. Mineral buildup
In areas with hard water, mineral deposits from calcium and magnesium can accumulate inside pipes over time. This buildup reduces the internal diameter of the pipes, slowing down water flow and creating blockages that may require professional cleaning.
10. Broken pipes
When pipes are damaged or broken, either due to age, shifting ground or external pressure, they can become blocked. Collapsed pipes or those that are misaligned prevent water from flowing correctly and can result in serious blockages or even leaks.
DIY ways to fix blocked drains
1. Plunger
A plunger is one of the most effective tools for minor blockages in sinks or toilets. The suction it creates can help dislodge blockages by forcing water and air through the pipe. If your blockage is minor, this method could prevent the need for a full blocked drain repair.
2. Drain snake (auger)
A drain snake is perfect for removing tougher clogs, especially hair or food scraps stuck further down the pipe. You feed the snake down the drain, twist it and then pull it back to extract the clog. It’s a great tool to have for regular plumbing maintenance.
3. Boiling water
Pouring boiling water down the drain is one of the simplest ways to deal with blockages caused by soap scum or grease. The heat helps dissolve these substances, allowing them to flow through the pipes more easily. This method works particularly well for kitchen sinks.
4. Baking soda & vinegar
This natural remedy is a great eco-friendly solution for clearing minor drain clogs. Start with a cup of baking soda, then slowly follow with half a cup of vinegar. The chemical reaction creates fizzing action that helps to break down debris in the pipes. After 30 minutes, flush with hot water.
5. Chemical drain cleaner
For tougher clogs, you can use a chemical drain cleaner available at most hardware stores. These products are designed to melt away grease, hair and other common blockages. However, be cautious — overuse can damage your pipes, especially if they’re older or already worn.
Professional blocked drain repair in Sydney
Blocked drains can be a hassle, and if these DIY methods don’t work, it’s time to call in the experts. MPJ Plumbing Group offers reliable, same-day blocked drain repairs in Sydney. Our team uses advanced tools like CCTV cameras to inspect your drains for quick and accurate diagnosis without unnecessary digging.
With over 25 years of experience, we specialise in fast and efficient plumbing solutions with minimal disruption to your home. Our commitment to quality work keeps your drains clear and functioning properly long after we’ve completed the job.
Restore the flow with MPJ Plumbing Group
Don’t let a blocked drain cause further complications. Whether it’s a minor blockage or a major plumbing emergency, our qualified plumbers are here to help 24/7. Contact us today for a free quote and let MPJ Plumbing Group solve your plumbing problems quickly and professionally.