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.

Common Causes of Blocked Drains & How to Prevent Them

Blocked drains are one of the most common and frustrating plumbing issues for homeowners and businesses. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a gurgling toilet, or a complete blockage, these issues can lead to foul odours, water damage, and costly repairs if left untreated.

Signs You Have a Blocked Drain & When to Call a Plumber

Blocked drains don’t always happen overnight—they often start with minor warning signs that, if ignored, can escalate into major plumbing disasters. Slow drainage, bad smells, and gurgling noises are early indicators that your plumbing system needs attention.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Blocked Drain

Blocked drains may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, but ignoring them can lead to serious consequences for your home and health. What starts as slow drainage or a gurgling sound can quickly escalate into flooding, water damage, and costly emergency repairs.