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
Common Causes of Blocked Drains & How to Prevent Them
Understanding Blocked Drains
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.
At Pinnacle Plumbing, we specialize in identifying and fixing blocked drains quickly and efficiently. Understanding what causes blockages and how to prevent them can help you avoid expensive repairs and maintain a healthy plumbing system.
1. Common Causes of Blocked Drains
🚽 1. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
One of the leading causes of toilet blockages is flushing items that are not designed to break down in the plumbing system. Many people unknowingly dispose of objects in the toilet that should be thrown in the bin instead.
🚨 Common culprits include:
❌ Wet wipes (even “flushable” ones)
❌ Sanitary products
❌ Paper towels and napkins
❌ Cotton pads and swabs
❌ Dental floss and hair
These items do not dissolve easily and can accumulate in the pipes, creating severe blockages that require professional intervention.
🛠 Prevention Tips:
✅ Only flush toilet paper—everything else should go in the bin.
✅ Place a waste bin in the bathroom to discourage improper disposal.
✅ Educate family members and guests about what can and cannot be flushed.
💡 Did You Know?
Wet wipes and sanitary products can cause fatbergs—large, solid masses that clog sewer systems and create major plumbing issues.

🚰 2. Grease & Food Buildup in Kitchen Sinks
Cooking grease, fats, and food scraps may seem harmless when washed down the sink, but they harden inside pipes, leading to severe and recurring blockages over time.
🚨 Warning Signs:
✔ Slow-draining sinks, especially in the kitchen.
✔ Unpleasant odours from the drain due to rotting food.
✔ Gurgling noises when draining water. When hot grease is poured down the drain, it solidifies as it cools, sticking to the pipe walls. Over time, this accumulated grease narrows the pipe, leading to blockages.
🛠 Prevention Tips:
✅ Never pour grease, oil, or fats down the sink—instead, let them cool and dispose of them in the bin.
✅ Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps and prevent them from entering the drain.
✅ Flush your drains weekly with boiling water and dish soap to break down any grease buildup.
✅ Avoid rinsing coffee grounds and starchy foods (like rice or pasta) down the sink, as they can expand and clog pipes.
💡 Pro Tip:
Instead of disposing of used cooking oil in the sink, collect it in a container and recycle it at a waste disposal site.

🌱 3. Tree Root Intrusion
Tree roots are a hidden but serious cause of drain blockages. Roots naturally seek out moisture, and if there are any cracks or weak points in underground pipes, they grow into them, causing significant blockages and even pipe damage.
🚨 Warning Signs:
✔ Slow drainage across multiple fixtures, such as sinks, bathtubs, and toilets.
✔ Frequent toilet or drain blockages, even after using a plunger.
✔ Gurgling sounds when using sinks or toilets, indicating air is trapped in the pipes.
✔ Sewage backup or foul-smelling water pooling in the yard. If tree roots invade your plumbing system, they can break pipes, causing leaks and costly repairs.
🛠 Prevention Tips:
✅ Schedule a CCTV drain inspection every 1-2 years to detect root intrusions early.
✅ Avoid planting large trees near sewer lines—opt for trees with non-invasive root systems instead.
✅ Install root barriers to prevent roots from reaching your pipes.
✅ Use a professional plumber to remove tree roots safely without damaging the pipes.
📞 Suspect tree roots are blocking your drains? Call Pinnacle Plumbing for expert drain clearing today!
🏠 4. Hair & Soap Scum in Bathroom Drains
Hair and soap residue frequently accumulate in bathroom sinks, showers, and bathtub drains, forming tough clogs that slow down drainage.
🚨 Warning Signs:
✔ Water pooling in the shower instead of draining quickly.
✔ Unpleasant odours from bathroom drains.
✔ Recurring blockages despite using a plunger.
🛠 Prevention Tips:
✅ Install drain strainers to catch hair before it enters the drain.
✅ Clean drain covers weekly to prevent buildup.
✅ Flush bathroom drains with hot water and vinegar to dissolve soap scum.
💡 Pro Tip:
If you experience frequent bathroom drain clogs, consider using enzyme-based drain cleaners, which break down organic material without damaging pipes.
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
🚧 5. Broken or Collapsed Pipes
Old, worn-out, or damaged pipes can collapse, restricting water flow and causing persistent blockages.
🚨 Warning Signs:
✔ Frequent drain clogs that don’t respond to plunging or DIY methods.
✔ Sudden drop in water pressure.
✔ Water damage or mould growth in areas near drainpipes.
🛠 Prevention Tips:
✅ Have a professional plumber inspect your pipes regularly for signs of deterioration.
✅ Replace old pipes before they cause significant problems.
✅ Ensure your plumbing system is up to code to prevent structural issues.
📞 Think your drains are blocked due to damaged pipes? Contact Pinnacle Plumbing for a thorough inspection!


Final Thoughts: Preventing Blocked Drains is Easier Than You Think
Taking proactive steps to maintain your drains can save you from expensive plumbing emergencies. By being mindful of what goes down the drain and scheduling regular maintenance, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
Why Choose Pinnacle Plumbing for Drain Clearing?
✔ 24/7 Emergency Drain Clearing—Quick response for urgent blockages.
✔ CCTV Drain Inspections—Find hidden pipe problems before they get worse.
✔ High-Pressure Hydro Jetting—Clears stubborn grease, tree roots, and debris.
✔ No Hidden Fees—Transparent pricing with no surprises.
📞 Blocked drain? Call Pinnacle Plumbing today for expert service!