Plumbing Tips

A blocked sewer is one of the most serious and disruptive plumbing problems a homeowner can face. Unlike a regular drain blockage that affects only one fixture, a sewer clog can impact your entire propertycausing wastewater to reverse flow into sinks, toilets, and showers throughout your home. The smell, the mess, and the risk to your health make it an urgent issue that can’t be ignored. In this guide, SE Plumbing explains how to unblock a sewer, what causes the blockage in the first place, and when to call in a professional plumber in Sutherland Shire.

What Causes a Blocked Sewer?

Blocked sewers typically occur due to one or more of the following issues:

• The buildup of toilet paper or hygiene products in the main sewer pipe

• Tree roots growing into cracked or ageing pipes

• Grease, fat, and food waste entering the sewer from kitchen drains

• Foreign objects accidentally flushed or washed into the system

• Collapsed or broken pipes due to soil movement or heavy loads above ground

For more details, explore our Blocked Drains service to understand how these problems start.

Signs You Have a Blocked Sewer

Sewer blockages usually don’t happen overnight. Here are the most common signs you’re dealing with a sewer line issue:

• Multiple fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers) blocked at the same time

• Water backing up into the lowest drain (e.g. floor waste or bathtub)

• Gurgling noises after flushing or draining

• Foul sewage smells coming from drains or the yard

• Overflowing outdoor sewer access or inspection point

If you notice these symptoms, you may also be dealing with Broken or Damaged Pipes.

Step-by-Step: How to Unblock a Sewer Line

1. Check the Outdoor Inspection Point

Locate your property’s sewer access point, usually a small round cap or grate in the yard.

• Remove the cap to check if it’s overflowing

• If water is sitting in the pipe, you likely have a mainline blockage

• If dry, the issue may be isolated to a single drain

2. Use a Plunger on the Toilet or Floor Drain

A plunger can sometimes break up partial clogs in the internal pipes.

• Seal all overflow outlets in nearby sinks

• Create a firm seal with the plunger over the affected fixture

• Plunge forcefully for 20–30 seconds and monitor water flow

3. Run a Drain Snake

If you have access to a sewer auger or flexible drain snake, you can try clearing the blockage manually.

• Feed the snake through the outdoor access point or toilet

• Twist gently to catch or break up the clog

• Rinse with water to check flow

This method may work on soft clogs, but tree roots or broken pipes require a professional approach. Learn about our Emergency Plumbing services for urgent help.

4. Try a High-Pressure Water Hose

For external drains with partial blockages, a garden hose with a pressure nozzle may be effective.

• Insert the hose down the access point

• Use water pressure to push the clog towards the main sewer

• Monitor the flow for signs of improvement

If the water overflows instead, stop immediately and call our Blocked Drain specialists.

Why DIY Doesn’t Always Work on Sewers

Sewer lines are much larger and deeper than household drains, and they often require specialised tools to inspect and repair.

• You can’t see the cause of the blockage without a CCTV drain camera

• Tree roots need to be cut out with a rooter or hydro jetter

• Damaged or collapsed pipes must be repaired or relined

• Sewage cleanup requires proper handling and sanitation

If your sewer is overflowing, call SE Plumbing immediately via our Contact page or call: 0414 651 351.

Professional Sewer Unblocking: What We Do

At SE Plumbing, we use advanced drain technology to identify and resolve sewer blockages quickly and safely. Our process includes:

• CCTV camera inspection to identify tree roots, collapsed pipes, or fatbergs

• High-pressure hydro jetting to clear roots and stubborn sludge

• Excavation or pipe relining if the blockage is caused by pipe damage

• Full system flush and reporting to ensure the issue is resolved long-term

We’ve been clearing blocked sewers across Sutherland Shire for over 20 years—see why locals rely on us for emergency drain services.

How to Prevent Future Sewer Blockages

• Don’t flush wipes, sanitary products or cotton buds—even if labelled “flushable”

• Dispose of oils and grease in the bin, not the sink

• Install drain strainers to catch food scraps

• Have your drains inspected annually, especially if your home has old clay or earthenware pipes

Prevention is key. Our Leak Detection and Prevention team can help monitor sewer health year-round.

Trusted Sewer Blockage Plumber in Sutherland Shire – Fast, Reliable & Local Help

Blocked sewers are a plumbing emergency you don’t want to ignore. They can damage your home, harm your health, and cost thousands if unresolved. While there are a few at-home methods that may work for partial blockages, most sewer problems require professional tools and experience. 

Two professional plumbers outdoors clearing a blocked sewer; one guides a hose into the access point while the other inspects a live camera feed near a brick house.At South East Plumbing, we’re equipped to handle sewer issues of all sizes, fast, cleanly, and with long-term results. Call 0414 651 351 or book an inspection online to get expert help from your local plumber in Sutherland Shire.

Blocked drains are a common plumbing issue in households across Sydney, and if left untreated, they can lead to bad smells, slow drainage, flooding, and even long-term pipe damage. While some blockages require professional plumbing support, many minor clogs can be resolved at home with the right tools and techniques. In this guide, South East Plumbing Engadine shares 10 tried-and-tested ways you can clear a blocked drain using safe, simple and affordable methods.

1. Boiling Water Flush

The first and easiest solution for any slow-draining sink or basin is boiling water. It works best for minor clogs caused by soap scum, grease or conditioner buildup.

• Boil a kettle and carefully pour it directly down the affected drain

• Wait a few minutes between each pour to allow the water to break down debris

• Repeat two or three times, then test flow with warm tap water

This method is effective for metal pipes but avoid using it on PVC where extreme heat could cause warping. For recurring sink issues, see our Leaking Taps and Toilets services.

2. Bicarb Soda and Vinegar

This natural solution is perfect for kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, and laundry tubs. It not only helps break down build-up but also neutralises bad odours.

• Pour half a cup of bicarbonate soda into the drain

• Add one cup of white vinegar

• Cover the drain and leave it to fizz for 15 minutes

• Rinse with boiling or hot water

This eco-friendly method is popular among Australian homeowners for routine drain cleaning and maintenance.

3. Plunge the Drain

A plunger is one of the most useful tools for loosening clogs caused by hair, food, or soap residue.

• For sinks, fill with water until the plunger cup is fully submerged

• Create a tight seal over the drain and plunge with strong, rhythmic motions

• For toilets, use a flange plunger to create proper suction

• Test the water flow after plunging for 20–30 seconds

For stubborn toilet blockages, see our Emergency Plumbing solutions.

4. Use a Wire Coat Hanger

For minor clogs near the surface, a straightened wire hanger works well in shower or basin drains.

• Unwind the hanger and make a small hook at one end

• Carefully feed it into the drain and rotate to catch hair or gunk

• Pull it out and dispose of debris before rinsing with hot water

If hair buildup is a recurring problem in your bathroom, learn more about our leaking taps and plumbing inspection services.

5. Apply Dish Soap and Hot Water

Great for greasy clogs in kitchen drains, especially if caused by oils or leftover cooking residue.

• Pour a generous amount of dish soap into the drain

• Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the grease

• Follow with hot water to flush away residue

Grease and fat buildup over time can signal pipe damage. Consider our Broken or Damaged Pipes service, if the issue persists.

6. Clean the U-Bend or Trap

If your kitchen or bathroom sink is completely blocked, the trap under the basin may be the issue.

• Place a bucket underneath the U-bend

• Unscrew the trap and remove any gunk inside

• Rinse thoroughly before reattaching and testing for leaks

For older homes across Sutherland Shire, U-bend cleaning is often a short-term fix. Book a drain inspection.

7. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum

If you have access to a shop vac, this tool can be highly effective for sucking out blockages.

• Set the vacuum to liquid mode

• Create a tight seal around the drain opening

• Run the vacuum for 15–30 seconds to draw out the blockage

For hard-to-reach clogs or unknown causes, our Leak Detection and Prevention service can identify the issue without damage.

8. Salt and Baking Soda Mix

A simple, chemical-free way to dislodge small build-ups in bathroom and laundry drains.

• Mix half a cup of table salt with half a cup of bicarb soda

• Pour into the drain and leave it overnight

• Flush with boiling water in the morning

This is a great maintenance step for all homes across southern Sydney suburbs like Engadine, Miranda and Cronulla.

9. Drain Auger or Hand Snake

This flexible tool is available at most hardware stores and is ideal for clearing deeper clogs.

• Insert the auger into the drain and twist to grab or break up the clog

• Carefully retract it, then flush the drain with water

For extensive tree root damage, contact our Blocked Drains specialists for a hydro-jet or CCTV inspection.

10. Preventative Maintenance

Prevention is just as important as removal. Regular care is one of the best ways to avoid serious blockages.

• Install hair catchers in bathroom drains

• Use strainers in kitchen sinks

• Flush drains monthly with baking soda and vinegar

• Avoid disposing of grease, oil or coffee grounds in the sink

Looking for a scheduled plumbing maintenance plan? Contact SE Plumbing to discuss ongoing drain care.

When to Call SE Plumbing

Some blockages are simply too severe or too deep for household methods. Call SE Plumbing if:

• Multiple fixtures are affected at once

• You hear gurgling or notice sewage smells

• The blockage returns within days of clearing

• You suspect pipe damage, tree roots, or flooding risk

Our Emergency Plumbing service is available 24/7 to homes throughout Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney.

Why Locals Trust SE Plumbing

SE Plumbing is trusted by homeowners across Engadine, Cronulla, Sylvania, and beyond for blocked drain solutions that last. With more than 20 years of experience, we provide quick diagnostics and permanent fixes using the latest equipment.

• Fully licensed and insured plumbers

• Honest pricing and fast response

• Local knowledge of Sydney’s ageing pipe systems

• Tools like CCTV drain cameras and hydro jetters to clear any blockage

Call 0414 651 351 or book online now for expert help today.

Blocked Drain Solutions Sutherland Shire – Call SE Plumbing Today

Clearing a blocked drain at home is often easier than it seems. With these 10 methods, most minor clogs can be resolved quickly using safe, household ingredients. But when home solutions aren’t enough, SE Plumbing is ready to help with same-day service and reliable results. Don’t wait—get your drains flowing properly again with help from your local team in Sutherland Shire.

Blocked drains are a common issue in homes across Sydney and the Sutherland Shire. While calling a plumber is essential for serious or recurring blockages, many minor clogs can be fixed with everyday household items. If you’ve got a slow-draining sink, a smelly bathroom drain, or water pooling in the shower, these simple DIY tips can help you get things moving again, without needing harsh chemicals or specialist tools. Here are nine proven ways to clear a blocked drain using items you probably already have at home.

1. Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain

Boiling water is one of the easiest and most effective methods for minor clogs caused by grease, soap scum or conditioner. It’s particularly helpful in kitchen sinks and bathroom basins.

• Boil a full kettle of water
• Carefully pour it down the drain in two or three stages, waiting 10 seconds between each pour
• Rinse with hot tap water to check flow
• This method works best when the blockage is in the early stages. Avoid using boiling water on PVC pipes.

2. Use Bicarb Soda and Vinegar

This natural combination causes a fizzing reaction that helps dislodge soft clogs and remove odours. It’s a great solution for bathroom drains or sinks with slow drainage.

• Pour half a cup of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) into the drain
• Follow with one cup of white vinegar
• Cover the drain and leave it for 15 minutes
• Rinse with hot water
• This is one of the most effective household methods used by Australian homeowners for eco-friendly drain cleaning.

3. Try Salt and Hot Water

If you don’t have vinegar, salt is a useful alternative for breaking down grime.

• Pour half a cup of table salt into the drain
• Follow with one litre of hot (not boiling) water
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot tap water
• This helps loosen minor blockages and can be repeated weekly as a preventive measure.

4. Use a Toilet Plunger

A toilet or sink plunger can be very effective for clearing clogs caused by hair, food particles or soap scum.

• Fill the basin or sink with enough water to cover the plunger
• Place the plunger over the drain and press down to create suction
• Plunge up and down rapidly for 15–30 seconds
• Check to see if the water begins to drain
• Use a flange plunger for toilets and a cup plunger for sinks.

5. Straighten a Wire Coat Hanger

A wire hanger can be turned into a makeshift drain snake for bathroom sinks and showers.

• Straighten the hanger and create a small hook at one end
• Carefully insert it into the drain and rotate to catch hair or gunk
• Pull it out and dispose of debris
• Flush with hot water to clear the rest
• This trick works particularly well in older homes in Sydney with metal grates or slow shower drainage.

6. Remove and Clean the U-Bend

If your kitchen sink is blocked, the trap (U-bend) may be holding food residue or grease.

• Place a bucket underneath the U-bend
• Unscrew the connections by hand or with a wrench
• Remove the trap and clean it thoroughly
• Reattach and test for leaks
• This is a reliable method for stubborn blockages near the sink outlet.

7. Use Dish Soap and Hot Water

Ideal for greasy blockages, especially in the kitchen sink.

• Squeeze a generous amount of dishwashing liquid into the drain
• Let it sit for five minutes
• Pour down boiling water to cut through the grease
• Repeat if the flow doesn’t improve right away.

8. Wet and Dry Vacuum

If you have a wet/dry shop vac, it can be used to suck out or blow through a clog.

• Set to wet mode
• Seal the hose over the drain using an old rag or plunger flange
• Run the vacuum on high for 20–30 seconds
• This method can dislodge stubborn clogs deeper in the pipe.

9. Regular Maintenance with Natural Cleaners

Prevention is just as important as removal. Regularly cleaning your drains with natural ingredients will help prevent future blockages.

• Once a month, pour half a cup of baking soda and vinegar down each drain
• Flush with hot water
• Install strainers on all bathroom and kitchen drains to catch debris

For a full inspection or recurring problems, contact our Blocked Drains experts servicing Sutherland Shire and surrounding Sydney suburbs.

What Not to Use

Avoid chemical drain cleaners, especially in older homes. These can:

• Damage PVC or galvanised steel pipes
• Kill helpful bacteria in septic systems
• Create fumes that are unsafe in enclosed spaces
• If your DIY efforts haven’t worked after one or two attempts, don’t continue trying. You could make the blockage worse.

When to Call a Professional

Some blockages are too stubborn or too deep for home methods. Contact SE Plumbing if:

• You have tried more than one DIY method without success
• The water is backing up in multiple drains
• The clog returns shortly after clearing
• You hear gurgling or smell sewage from your drains

Our Emergency Plumbing service is available 24/7 across Sutherland Shire.

Why Choose SE Plumbing

With over 20 years of experience, SE Plumbing has built a reputation for fast, reliable and affordable blocked drain solutions in Sutherland Shire. We combine expert knowledge with the latest drain inspection and clearing tools, including:

• CCTV drain cameras for accurate diagnosis
• Hydro jetting to clear stubborn clogs without damage
• Licensed, friendly local plumbers
• No hidden costs, just honest pricing

Need help now? Call us on 0414 651 351 or book online.

Call SE Plumbing for Emergency Drain Help in Sutherland Shire

Clearing a blocked drain doesn’t always require a plumber, sometimes, a bit of boiling water or bicarb soda is all it takes. These nine DIY tips are cost-effective, eco-friendly, and practical for any Sydney household. But when your efforts aren’t enough, SE Plumbing is here to help. Our trusted team in Sutherland Shire is just a phone call away.

Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems faced by homeowners across Sutherland Shire. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, shower, or laundry, a clogged drain can quickly disrupt your routine and, if left unchecked, lead to water damage or costly repairs. The good news? Many minor blockages can be fixed with tools and items you already have at home. In this guide, we’ll show you how to unclog a blocked drain yourself using safe, effective methods, plus how to know when it’s time to call in a professional.

What Causes Blocked Drains in Sydney Homes?

Understanding the likely source of the blockage is the first step to clearing it properly. Some of the most common culprits behind household drain clogs include:

• Hair and soap scum in bathroom sinks and shower drains

• Cooking oil, food scraps, and grease in kitchen sinks

• Excessive toilet paper or hygiene products in toilets

• Garden debris, dirt, and leaves in outdoor and storm water drains

• Tree root intrusion in older underground pipework

Not sure what’s causing the blockage? Visit our Blocked Drains service page to learn how we can help diagnose the issue fast.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Unclog a Drain Using DIY Methods

Depending on where the blockage is, you may be able to fix it with a few simple techniques. Here are several DIY solutions to try, starting with the easiest.

1. Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain

This works best for grease build-up or soap residue.

• Boil a full kettle of water

• Slowly pour it down the drain in two or three stages

• Let it sit for a few minutes

• Run the hot tap and see if the drainage has improved

2. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural, eco-friendly way to clear gunk inside your pipes.

• Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain

• Add one cup of vinegar

• Cover the drain and let it fizz for 10–15 minutes

• Rinse with hot water

• Repeat if needed

3. Try a Plunger

Plungers are effective on bathroom sinks, kitchen drains, and toilets.

• Fill the sink or bowl with enough water to cover the plunger

• Create a firm seal over the drain

• Plunge up and down with strong, even pressure for 20 seconds

• Test the water flow and repeat if necessary

4. Use a Drain Snake or Wire Coat Hanger

For deeper clogs caused by hair or debris.

• Straighten a wire coat hanger and bend one end into a hook

• Carefully insert it into the drain

• Twist and pull to dislodge the blockage

• Remove the gunk and rinse with hot water

5. Clean the Sink Trap (U-Bend)

If you suspect the blockage is under the sink.

• Place a bucket under the trap

• Unscrew the U-bend and remove it

• Clear out any built-up sludge or food particles

• Reattach and test the drain for leaks

Still not flowing? Contact our Emergency Plumbing team for urgent blocked drain assistance across Sutherland Shire.

What Not to Do When Unclogging a Drain

Some quick fixes can cause more harm than good. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t pour bleach or caustic drain chemicals unless specifically designed for your type of plumbing

• Avoid repeated plunging on fragile or older pipes

• Don’t continue flushing or running water if the drain remains slow—this could cause overflow

• Never ignore early warning signs like gurgling sounds, foul smells, or pooling water

When Should You Call a Professional Plumber?

Some blockages are beyond the reach of DIY methods. Contact a licensed plumber if:

• The blockage returns repeatedly

• Multiple drains in your home are blocked at once

• You smell sewage from your drains

• You hear gurgling when other fixtures are used

• Water backing up into sinks or tubs

SE Plumbing offers fast, same-day service. Explore our Blocked Drains service page or speak with a licensed local plumber.

Why Sutherland Shire Residents Trust SE Plumbing

At SE Plumbing, we’ve been helping homeowners across Sutherland Shire, including Engadine, Cronulla, and Miranda, for over 20 years. Whether it’s a blocked drain or a burst pipe, we’re committed to providing reliable, affordable, and professional service every time.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Fully licensed and insured local plumbers

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

• Non-invasive diagnostics using CCTV drain cameras

• Powerful hydro-jetting equipment for stubborn clogs

• 24/7 emergency plumbing is available when you need it most

Call 0414 651 351 or book an inspection online today.

Blocked Drain Plumber Sutherland Shire – Call SE Plumbing Today

Unclogging a drain at home can often be handled quickly using basic tools and supplies. Boiling water, baking soda, a plunger, and a little know-how can go a long way. But if your drain continues to clog, backs up water, or smells like sewage, don’t delay, call a licensed plumber before it turns into a much bigger issue. SE Plumbing is here to help Sutherland Shire residents keep their drains flowing and their homes protected.