Blocked drains are a huge hassle that can cause costly damage to your plumbing system. It is important to understand what causes these blockages and how to prevent them. 

Your drains are like branches of a tree, with each bathroom sink, tub or toilet connecting into larger drains. These drains then connect to the main sewer line. 

1. Foreign Objects 

Many drain blockages result from foreign objects that are washed down the pipes, either intentionally or unintentionally. Things such as toys, hair products, and food waste can be a huge problem for your plumbing if they build up and block the drains. 

If your children are old enough, teach them to put sanitary items and other toiletries in the garbage rather than down the toilet. This can help reduce clogged pipes and other unpleasant issues. 

If you notice gurgling sounds or foul odors coming from your drains, it's time to call a plumber. A professional can assess the situation and find a long-term solution for your home plumbing system. This may include cleaning, installing new parts, or a combination of both. It is important to catch blockages early as this can save you a lot of money and hassle over time. 

2. Grease/Fat 

Grease is one of the main causes of blocked drains in homes. When poured down kitchen drains, fats and grease start to coat the walls of pipes and combine with other debris to form tough clogs. To prevent this, collect cooking grease and oil in glass jars or cans and throw them away with your household trash. 

It’s also important to avoid pouring grease down toilets. This can cause blockages in the toilet as well, resulting in a stinky mess that’s difficult to clean up. You can minimize the risk of these issues by placing drain baskets or strainers in sink and bathroom drains to catch food scraps, paper towels and other items that would otherwise fall down the drain. Alternatively, use a drain snake or plunger to clear these items out. 

3. Tree Roots 

Tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines and clog drains. Roots seeking water naturally find their way into tiny cracks in underground pipes, and grow inside until they completely block the drain. Hydro jet cleaning can clear minor clogs, but regular root trimming is a much better solution. 

Most trees do not develop a taproot that plunges deeply into soil, but rather a sprawling network of woody and feeder roots. These roots often occupy an area of

the ground four to seven times larger than that covered by the tree canopy. 

Many people think of roots as a nuisance, but they are essential for plant life. Without them, trees could not survive in our climate. Unfortunately, we also often damage them by burying or cutting them with construction or utility work. 

4. Cracked Pipes 

When your drain clogs, it’s important to understand why they occur so you can prevent them from happening again in the future. This can save you money and stress. 

Broken or cracked pipes often cause blockages because of how they restrict wastewater flow. Using water softeners can help keep the build-up of minerals to a minimum, so your pipes last longer. 

A blocked drain in Melbourne is more common than you might think, and they can be caused by a wide variety of factors. By understanding why drains clog and taking some preventative measures, you can save yourself from serious plumbing issues. Slowly draining water, gurgling sounds and foul odors are all clues that you might have a clogged pipe. If you spot any of these signs, contact a plumber immediately. 

5. Food Waste 

Many objects are washed or flushed down the drain that shouldn’t be, from children’s toys and sanitary items to food build-up, grease, and wipes. These materials can restrict water flow through pipes and cause blockages. 

Kitchen sinks are often the source of blockages, with food scraps and oil building up inside pipes over time. This creates a solid mass that can’t be removed without professional help. 

Hair is another common culprit for bathroom drains. It’s important to use a hair strainer in showers and bathtubs to catch the bulk of hair before it enters drain pipes. With the right knowledge and preventive measures, it’s possible to keep drains running smoothly. Blockages can be more than a nuisance, resulting in serious plumbing issues and costly repairs.