There are many things that can cause your drains to become blocked. Some of these are easy to prevent, while others require a professional plumber’s help.

Baby wipes are one of the most common items that can block toilets and kitchen sinks when flushed down the drain. Similarly, fatty substances like oil and grease can build up over time.

Cracked Pipes

When cracks form in pipes they can cause debris to clog the system. This is usually caused by materials that were not discarded properly. Items like toys that 'accidentally' get flushed, wipes (which don't dissolve) and dental floss are not to be placed down drains and should only be put in the bin.

General wear and tear can also result in pipes breaking down. Whether it be from age, or from incorrect piping during installation, this can have serious consequences.

A drain specialist will be able to advise if any of these signs are present in your home, or if you need help with your plumbing system. Often, just calling in one of the qualified local experts will be all that is needed to ensure the health and longevity of your drains. They can assess your situation and help you fix any problems quickly and easily. So, if you have any of these telltale signs, it's time to call the plumber in!

Food Waste

A blocked drain in Melbourne can be caused by things like food waste. It can also lead to expensive sewer backups and repair costs. Fats, oils and grease (FOG) are the main culprit of these blockages. When they are washed down drains and garbage disposals or flushed down toilets, they cling to the inside of pipes and harden over time. This creates huge, cement-like clogs that can stop the flow of wastewater and cause sewer backups into homes, businesses, streets and local waterways.

Most of the food we throw away ends up in the sewer system. It combines with other waste to become sewage sludge, which is treated at wastewater treatment plants before being sent to landfills or anaerobic digesters.

You can avoid putting food waste into your drains by reducing the amount of food you throw away. Rather than putting eggshells, coffee grounds and other hard foods into your garbage disposal, put them in the trash. When you do use the disposal, run cold water to help wash food particles away from the walls of the pipe and trap.

Grease Buildup

Grease and fats might seem harmless when poured down the drain, but they can do a lot of damage when left unchecked. Even things like butter and bacon scraps

contain fatty acids that lead to drain blockages when they enter your plumbing system. As they cool, these substances start to solidify and stick to the pipes. Over time, they restrict water flow and trap food particles and soap scum.

Within hours, a grease clog can develop. Over weeks to months, it can grow into a solid mass that obstructs your pipe. This can cause severe drainage issues, requiring the help of a professional drain cleaning company.

Pouring boiling water down the drain can break down minor grease clogs and dissolve the sticky residue. This simple and effective solution is much more effective than chemical drain cleaners. It also prevents these harmful chemicals from entering your drinking water and damaging the environment. You can also use a sink plunger or snake to dislodge greasy buildup.

Mineral Buildup

If you notice a white chalky or crusty buildup on your sink, bathtub, or showerhead, it’s likely caused by calcium and other mineral deposits from hard water. The deposit builds up on the walls of your pipes and over time narrows their interior diameter, restricting water flow. It also accelerates corrosion, reducing the lifespan of your plumbing system and increasing the risk of leaks.

Pouring CLR or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains works as a short-term solution for calcium deposits, but they don’t protect your pipes in the long term. Instead, try using boiling water to dissolve and loosen the buildup and flush away any lingering odors. This method is easy and safe, avoiding harsh store bought chemical cleaners that can damage your pipes. If you’re still having problems, a professional plumber can use advanced methods to remove the mineral buildup and restore your drains.