Blocked Drains Armidale

The first thing you can do to unblock a drain is to pour boiling water down it to try to dissolve or dislodge any blockage. If that fails, try a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar or a commercially available chemical drain cleaner. Take care to plug up outlets like both drains in a dual basin sink. Still blocked? Try plunging. Make sure all holes where pressure might escape are plugged up. The sink should be filled with enough water to cover the cup of the plunger, then you can give it your best shot. If the blockage persists it is time to contact us.

Before you do anything else you need to turn the water off to avoid washing it away. It could be sitting in the pipe bend called a trap. Give us a call and we can check the pipes for you. We can also service the rest of your sinks, taps and your hot water system while we’re at it.

If you suspect a blocked drain, it’s best to call a professional plumber, like our team at Cuttle Plumbing, for assistance. Attempting to fix the issue yourself can cause further damage and potentially make the problem worse.

It’s recommended to have your drains professionally cleaned at least once a year. However, if you experience frequent blockages or have an older plumbing system, you may need to schedule more frequent maintenance.

Professional drain cleaning offers several advantages, including:

• Effective removal of blockages and debris from your pipes

• Prevention of future clogs and build-up

• Improved drainage efficiency

• Protection of your property from water damage

There are several steps you can take to prevent blocked drains:

• Dispose of grease and food waste properly, rather than pouring them down your sink

• Install drain strainers to catch debris and hair

• Regularly clean your drain covers and strainers

• Schedule routine professional drain maintenance with a trusted plumber like Cuttle Plumbing

By following these guidelines and relying on the expertise of our professional Plumbers Armidale team at Cuttle Plumbing, you can maintain a well-functioning drainage system and prevent the inconvenience and damage that blocked drains can cause.

Blocked drains are commonly caused by a build-up of debris such as hair, soap scum, food scraps, grease, and sanitary products. In outdoor drains, leaves, dirt, and tree roots are frequent culprits. Over time, these materials can accumulate and restrict water flow, eventually leading to a complete blockage. In some cases, poor pipe installation or damage to the drainage system can also be to blame. A plumber can identify the cause and recommend the best solution to restore proper drainage.

Warning signs of a blocked drain include water draining slowly, unpleasant smells coming from sinks or floor wastes, gurgling noises, and water backing up into basins, showers or toilets. You may also notice overflowing outdoor drains or pooling water in your yard. These symptoms are a sign that something is preventing water from flowing freely through your pipes. If left untreated, blockages can lead to burst pipes or water damage, so it’s best to contact a plumber as soon as you notice these signs.

Minor blockages may be cleared with basic tools such as a plunger or a drain snake. However, DIY methods often only provide a temporary fix and don’t address the root cause of the problem. Chemical drain cleaners can sometimes help, but may damage your pipes if used incorrectly or too frequently. For persistent or recurring issues, it's safer and more effective to hire a professional plumber who has the right equipment to clear the blockage completely and inspect the pipes if necessary.

Plumbers use several methods depending on the severity and location of the blockage. Common techniques include high-pressure water jetting to clear tough build-ups and electric drain snakes for more stubborn blockages. For complex or recurring issues, CCTV drain cameras can be used to inspect the inside of the pipe and identify damage, roots or foreign objects. In serious cases, excavation or pipe relining may be required to restore proper flow. A licensed plumber will determine the most effective solution for your specific issue.

The cost of clearing blocked drains in Armidale depends on several factors, including the location and severity of the blockage, access to the affected pipe, and whether specialised equipment is needed. Minor blockages may be resolved quickly at a relatively low cost, while major blockages or damaged pipes could require more extensive work. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to have a plumber assess the situation and provide a detailed quote. Prompt action can often save you money by preventing further damage.

Preventing blocked drains starts with good habits. Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds or food scraps down the sink, and use drain strainers to catch hair and debris in bathroom drains. Never flush wet wipes, cotton buds, or sanitary products down the toilet. Outside, keep gutters and stormwater drains clear of leaves and debris, and consider root barriers if you have trees near your pipework. Scheduling regular plumbing maintenance can also help identify early signs of blockage or damage before it becomes a serious issue.

In some cases, blocked drains may be covered by home insurance, particularly if the blockage causes sudden and accidental damage, such as flooding or a burst pipe. However, coverage varies between policies, and insurers may not cover blockages caused by a lack of maintenance, gradual build-up, or tree root intrusion. It’s a good idea to check your policy details or speak with your insurer to understand what’s included. A licensed plumber can also provide the documentation needed for insurance claims if required.

Yes, tree roots are one of the leading causes of blocked and damaged drains, especially in older properties with clay or earthenware pipes. Roots naturally seek out moisture and can enter even the smallest cracks in a pipe, eventually growing and causing severe blockages or pipe collapse. If tree root intrusion is suspected, a plumber can perform a CCTV inspection and use root-cutting equipment to clear the obstruction. In some cases, pipe relining or replacement may be necessary to prevent further issues.

No, it’s not advisable to ignore a slowly draining sink or shower, as this is often an early warning sign of a developing blockage. Over time, the problem can worsen, leading to a complete blockage, unpleasant smells, or even damage to the pipework. Slow drainage is commonly caused by a gradual build-up of hair, soap, or grease in the pipes, and addressing it early can prevent the need for more extensive repairs later. If plunging or simple cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber for a professional inspection and cleaning.