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Blocked Drains


Blocked drains in Melbourne are common, whether you’re living in a heritage home in Fitzroy or a newly built estate in the outer suburbs. So whether you need a plumber in Richmond or beyond, then Pinnacle Plumbing Group has the skill and experience to get the job done

When your home’s plumbing system is working as it should you probably won’t notice it at all.

Your drains will clear quickly, the taps will run smoothly and the pipes will draw water with barely a sound. But when something goes wrong with your plumbing you will know all about it – especially if the problem is a blocked drain. At the lighter end of the scale, a blocked drain will be an annoyance, but at the heavier end, a blocked drain can cause significant damage to your home through:

Sending pressure back into the system

Flooding

Damaging pipes

Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems for homes across the Melbourne city, so having a good understanding of what causes them and how they can be fixed is always welcome. Plus, having the number of a reliable plumber like Pinnacle Plumbing Group – +61 419 019 993 – is always a good idea too.

What causes blocked drains?


While the pipes are great at delivering good, steady pressure, they are not very wide and the drains that clear them can become blocked if foreign objects enter the system like food scrapings in the kitchen sink or leaves and dirt from the garden.

Another common way a drain gets blocked is with hair entering the system from the shower, or by leaves and other debris from the garden entering the plumbing system and causing a plug. Your drains can also become blocked through substances like fats and oils being washed down the sink or flushed down the toilet building up and stopping them from emptying properly.

Flushing baby wipes down the toilet can cause even more serious problems, such as “fatbergs” of wipes and oils building up into an enormous plug which can cause a blocked sewer as well as blocking your drains. This can cause severe damage to your home’s plumbing and even impact your neighbours.

All the recent technologies

To clear your drains fast from Hydrojetting, CCTV and pipe locating equipment.

Our Experienced Plumbers

Can diagnose, clear and repair whether it be stormwater or sewer drains.

Tree root intrusion

never a problem with our high powered Jetters and Root Cutters.

A comprehensive report

Provided on completion including CCTV footage of our findings.

Our expert team

Can perform expert repairs as required. From collapsed drains to build up of foreign matter

How are blocked drains repaired?


If the drain in your kitchen sink isn’t running quickly, then clearing the blockage can be as simple as inserting a plunger over the plughole and giving it a few strong pushes.

But if the blockages are more serious and won’t be moved so easily, then you’ll need to call a plumber, especially if the drain is flooding or causing damage to the rest of your home’s plumbing system.

Plumbers from Pinnacle Plumbing have many different techniques and pieces of kits to unblock drains, including sending small flexible cameras down the pipes to see what’s causing the blockage so we can come up with a fix. Then it’s a case of using everything from good old-fashioned elbow grease to clear the blockage to run specialised machinery to push or suck whatever’s plugging the system clear.

While they’re down there, professional plumbers like us can also determine if there’s been any damage caused to your drain by the blockage and repair it so the problem won’t happen again or make the damage worse.

Then when the job is done, we can also help with cleaning up any mess the blocked drain caused.

Preventing Blocked Drains

The best way to deal with a blocked drain is to avoid getting one in the first place.

The pipes and drains in your home need to be kept free of foreign objects, so make sure to scrape plates of leftover food in the kitchen and avoid washing anything other than water or other liquids down the sink.

It’s also best to dispose of fats and oils in the bin rather down the toilet or the sink, as they can build up in the pipes and cause a blockage.

Another way to ensure your drains remain free of blockages is to conduct an annual inspection to check them for any build-up of debris. You can do this yourself or get a plumber to come and do some preventative maintenance. This is a particularly good thing to do before the winter when cold weather brings plenty of leaves and rain to your outdoor drains, and when a plumbing emergency would be the most inconvenient.

FAQ

What are the common causes of blocked drains?
Common causes of blocked drains include: Accumulation of Debris, Grease and Fat Buildup, Tree Root Intrusion, Foreign Objects, Mineral Deposits, Structural Issues. It’s important to address blocked drains promptly by contact Pinnacle Plumbing to assess and resolve the issue safely and effectively.
How do you diagnose the location and severity of a drain blockage?
To diagnose the location and severity of a drain blockage, we follow a systematic assessment process: Visual Inspection, Drain Clearing Equipment, CCTV Inspection. Once we have gathered all the necessary information, we assess the location and severity of the blockage. We then explain the findings to the customer, providing a clear understanding of the issue and discussing the most effective and economical solutions for resolving it.
Can blocked drains lead to more extensive plumbing issues?
Yes, blocked drains can lead to more extensive plumbing issues if not addressed promptly. Here are potential consequences that stress the importance of professional help: Water Damage, Pipe Damage, Sewage Backup, Mold and Mildew Growth, Structural Damage. To avoid these potential consequences, it is crucial to seek professional help from a reputable plumber. We have the expertise and tools to identify and resolve blockages effectively, ensuring the long-term health of your plumbing system.
What’s the average cost for clearing a blocked drain?
The average cost for clearing a blocked drain can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the blockage, the location of the drain, and the complexity of the job. It’s best to contact Pinnacle Plumbing for an accurate assessment and a detailed quote based on your specific situation.
Do you use environmentally friendly methods to unblock drains?
Yes, at Pinnacle Plumbing, we are committed to using environmentally friendly methods to unblock drains. We prioritise sustainable practices to minimise our impact on the environment. Our plumbers are trained in utilising techniques such as hydro-jetting, which uses high-pressure water to clear blockages without the need for harsh chemicals. Additionally, we dispose of waste materials responsibly and adhere to local regulations to ensure eco-friendly practices throughout our operations.
Are you available for 24/7 emergency drain unblocking?
Yes, we are available for 24/7 emergency drain unblocking services. We understand that drain blockages can occur at any time, causing inconvenience and potential damage. That’s why our team of experienced plumbers is ready to respond to your emergency calls round-the-clock, including weekends and holidays. You can rely on us for prompt and efficient assistance whenever you need it.
What types of drains do you work with (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, sewer)?
At Pinnacle Plumbing, we have expertise in working with various types of drains, including kitchen drains, bathroom drains, and sewer drains. Whether it’s a clogged sink in your kitchen, a blocked shower drain in your bathroom, or a sewer line issue, our skilled plumbers are equipped to handle all types of drain systems. We use specialised tools and techniques to diagnose and resolve blockages, ensuring the smooth functioning of your drainage system.
Can you repair or replace damaged drain pipes?
Yes, we offer comprehensive services for repairing and replacing damaged drain pipes.
How long does it typically take to clear a blocked drain?
The time it takes to clear a blocked drain can vary depending on the severity and complexity of the blockage. Our experienced plumbers aim to resolve the issue as efficiently as possible. For simple blockages, it may take around 30 minutes to an hour. Our plumbers will assess the situation, determine the best approach, and provide you with an estimated timeframe before starting the work. Rest assured, we prioritise timely solutions to minimise inconvenience and restore proper drainage.
What steps can I take to prevent blocked drains in my home?
To prevent blocked drains in your home, you can take several preventive measures: 1. Proper Disposal: Avoid flushing non-flushable items like wipes, sanitary products, or paper towels down the toilet. Dispose of them in a trash bin instead. 2. Regular Maintenance: Schedule professional drain cleaning to remove any buildup or debris that could lead to blockages. 3. Hair Strainers: Use drain strainers in sinks and showers to catch hair and prevent it from going down the drain. 4. Grease Disposal: Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drains. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in a sealed container. 5. Tree Root Management: If you have trees near your sewer lines, consider regular inspections and root treatments to prevent root intrusion. 6. Educate Household Members: Teach everyone in your household about proper toilet usage and what should and shouldn’t be flushed. By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of blocked drains and maintain a healthy plumbing system.

Testimonials

Hear what our customers have to say about their experiences with Pinnacle Plumbing Group. 

  • Geoff Reany

    5 stars
    I highly recommend Pinnacle. Nick and Ash were prompt and responsive with quoting and scheduling installation of our new hot water unit. And plumbe...
  • Justine Sharman

    5 stars
    A great team, very reliable, great communication and good quality work
  • Mike B

    5 stars
    Conclusion: We strongly recommend Pinnacle Plumbing and will most certainly request them to do work for us in the future. The job: Around 10 perso...
  • Brendan Hughes

    5 stars
    We used Pinnacle Plumbing to undertake plumbing works as part of a home renovation. Not only were they reliable, professional and had great communi...
  • Cat Woods

    5 stars
    Such a great experience with Pinnacle Plumbing. I rang Nick on a Wednesday and by Friday noon, my toilet seat had been replaced efficiently and by ...
  • Chris Friday

    5 stars
    This company is very reliable and offers prompt service.
  • Virginia Dods

    5 stars
    This plumbing service was great at communication, understanding immediately what the issue seemed to be. They asked if it was an emergency - no, we...
  • Charlotte Fletcher

    5 stars
    Andrew and Lee came out to fix our bath which was leaking into the ceiling below. They were super easy to deal with, explained everything well, and...
  • Alona Reid

    5 stars
    Fabulous team to deal with from the start to finish on my carport roof plumbing! Nick and the crew, 5 stars!
  • Donna Taylor

    5 stars
    Plumbers came to the site and fixed my drains for a decent price , very professional. Highly recommend.
  • Ashleigh Smith

    5 stars
    Amazing work and great prices ! Best plumbing company in Melbourne. Highly recommend Nick and his team
  • Angela Rybalko

    5 stars
    I had a burst pipe at 7pm on a Wednesday night, called about 3 plumbers before finally I got on to Pinnacle who answered straight away. They arriv...
  • Stephanie Crawley

    5 stars
    I have used Pinnacle Plumbing Group for various plumbing jobs during my renovations. Each time, the expertise of the team has saved me time and mon...
  • Peter Wards

    5 stars
  • Dan Kelly

    5 stars
    Great service, very responsive, and showed up on time! Would highly recommend.
  • grant belchamber

    5 stars
    Second time I have used Nick Rybalko's Pinnacle Plumbing Group, last year for roof leak, this week for leaking toilet cistern. Fixed promptly both...
  • Kelvin Wang

    5 stars
    The most professional and reliable plumbing company I have ever used. Brilliant work with reasonable price. Customer service is amazing as well, es...
  • Joe Reed The Crafty Corner

    5 stars
    So grateful to Pinnacle Plumbing for working hard to accomodate me at short notice. They went out of their way to ensure that my issue was fixed pr...
  • Yanni Anastasiadis

    5 stars
    These guys do absolute quality work ! Nick and his team are easy to work with and ensure the job was smooth for us from start to finish! Thanks aga...
  • Charli Tjoe

    5 stars
    Nick and his team have been very prompt, friendly and professional. They've done great work for our pub and we will happily use them again for any ...
  • Craig Rowston

    5 stars
    Nick and Andy were great to deal with. Organised, on time and efficient to deal with on an older style roof, with a "bit going on". Support your lo...
  • Josh Branton

    5 stars
    Very impressed with the service for a replacement sink. Compared to other quotes we received, the price was competitive and took the time to confir...
  • Ch Farren

    5 stars
    I would definitely recommend this company. They responded promptly and fixed a roof leak, partially replacing the box guttering. Good service, goo...
  • Sheryl Carnie

    5 stars
    Pinnacle Plumbing were helpful, efficient and professional when the hot water service in our rented property failed on the eve of the Easter holida...
  • Brendan Corr

    5 stars
    Great service, very professional and competitive pricing. Fantastic to do business with.
  • Bel Karaliamis

    5 stars
    Thank you so much Pinnacle Plumbing! Special thx to Kyle and Simran. Kyle have given us a valid quote parameters and attended as emergency case. Si...
  • Franklin Lofts

    5 stars
    I have had a variety of works completed from Pinnacle, all with professionalism and courtesy. They are quick to respond and easy to deal with, high...
  • sophie su

    5 stars
    Kyle and Nick were both excellent , experienced good plumber. very responsive and provide good solutions , will recommened !
  • Jean Healey

    5 stars
  • Kim R

    5 stars
    Nick was my first contact at pinnacle, he was lovely on the phone and managed to fit us in that week! Rhys, came out to camera our pipes. He was v...
  • Reign W1

    5 stars
    Great service. Thank you Dan!
  • Marcus Trainor

    5 stars
    Superstar plumbers.
  • Liam McCallum

    5 stars
    There was a leak in the bathroom that was running to the apartment below. The plumber was professional and friendly with both myself and the tenan...
  • Brione Johnston

    5 stars
    Great service - Dan was professional, on time and listened to what we needed done. We definitely recommend Pinnacle plumbing.
  • Michael Piritidis

    5 stars
    The basics of what you want from a tradesperson they did what they said they were going to do when they said they were going to do it and at the pr...
  • Dan Ryan

    5 stars
    Really happy with our service from Pinnacle - professional, great communication, and they resolved our issues. Would recommend and use again.
  • Naomi F

    5 stars
    I was very happy with the service I received. Zach arrived within 24 hours of my phone call and was friendly and professional. I had a complicated ...
  • Melissa Clare

    5 stars
    I would not hesitate to recommend Nick and his team at Pinnacle Plumbing. The hot water in our shower was getting increasingly colder (Melbourne wi...
  • Lindsay Mann

    5 stars
    Isaak provided great service. He fixed the problem that was the reason for the call plus advised on some improvements to the plumbing setup that ...
  • 아트하트

    5 stars
    Our plumber, Isaak from Pinnacle, was very friendly and did a great job. He even wiped the dirty remaining parts when he changed the kitchen waste....
  • Kerrie Setiawan

    5 stars
  • T M

    5 stars
    On behalf of Anne Goyne:- They did an amazing job on in a very difficult location and got everything done within the quote and on time before the r...
  • Stephen Anderson

    5 stars
    Tradesman (Basil) turned up on time and was very polite. He was very professional keeping us updated with progress and after completion cleaned the...
  • Frank McCulloch

    5 stars
    Seamless experience - onsite within the hour and work completed professionally. Well done
  • Jack McCarthy

    5 stars
    Jack and Basil provided a high level of professional service and workmanship, which made what was a stressful situation, all the easier. Keep up th...
  • christian

    5 stars
    Sewer was blocked for an investment property. Pinnacle were quick to respond and resolved the issue promptly. Tenants were very happy.