A digital graphic showing a partially blocked drainpipe with debris, alongside the title 'Blocked Drains: Everything You Need to Know' on an orange background.

Everything You Need to Know About Blocked Drains That Your Plumber Never Told You

May 2, 20250

Blocked drains are among the most common plumbing problems in homes across Sutherland Shire. But most plumbers don’t tell you the full story. While they might clear the immediate blockage, they often skip over what’s really going on beneath the surface, or how to stop it from coming back. In this guide, SE Plumbing shares the important truths about blocked drains that your plumber might never have mentioned, and why knowing these things can save you thousands in repairs.

1. Most Drain Blockages Build Up Over Time

  • Drains don’t usually block overnight.
  • Hair, grease, soap, and other materials slowly build up over weeks or months.
  • By the time you notice slow drainage or bad smells, the pipe may already be partially blocked.
  • Ignoring these signs only allows the problem to grow until it causes a full blockage or overflow.

Tip: Schedule regular preventative checks with SE Plumbing’s Blocked Drains service to catch issues early.

2. “Flushable” Products are a Leading Cause of Sewer Blockages

  • Despite the label, most flushable wipes do not disintegrate like toilet paper.
  • Wipes, sanitary pads, liners, and cotton buds clump together and clog pipes.
  • They can combine with grease to form solid obstructions known as fatbergs.
  • These blockages often require high-pressure water jetting or excavation.

Tip: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Everything else belongs in the bin.

3. Drain Cleaners Can Make Things Worse

  • Supermarket drain cleaners can burn through pipe linings and seals, especially in older homes.
  • They often don’t fully remove the blockage—just push it further down the pipe.
  • Chemical use may void plumbing warranties or damage septic systems.

Tip: Avoid DIY chemicals and get expert help. Our Emergency Plumbing service uses safe, professional equipment.

4. Tree Roots are a Hidden Threat

  • Even small trees can send roots metres underground in search of moisture.
  • Roots enter cracked or loose joints in older clay or earthenware pipes.
  • Once inside, they grow rapidly and trap debris like wipes and hair.
  • Root blockages can recur unless properly removed and sealed.

Tip: We use mechanical root cutters and CCTV inspections to remove roots and assess pipe integrity. See our Broken or Damaged Pipes service.

5. Stormwater Blockages Can Affect Indoor Plumbing

  • Heavy rainfall can overwhelm storm water pits and surface drains.
  • Water may back up into bathrooms, laundries or floor drains—especially in older homes.
  • This is often misdiagnosed as a sewer blockage.

Tip: Keep outdoor drains clear of leaves and debris. SE Plumbing offers Leak Detection and Prevention to pinpoint the issue accurately.

6. Drain Cameras aren’t Just for Emergencies

  • A CCTV drain inspection lets us see exactly what’s happening inside your pipes.
  • We can identify root entry, cracked joints, collapsed pipes or foreign objects.
  • A quick inspection can prevent a small issue from turning into a major excavation.

Tip: Ask for a CCTV report during your next drain service, it’s affordable and worth it.

7. Regular Maintenance Costs Less Than Emergency Repairs

  • Most blocked drains can be prevented with basic, scheduled cleaning.
  • An annual inspection costs far less than flood damage or pipe replacement.
  • Preventative care extends the life of your plumbing system.

Tip: SE Plumbing offers maintenance plans tailored to homes in Sutherland Shire. Contact us today.

8. Some Plumbers Only Provide a Temporary Fix

  • Many plumbers just clear the blockage without investigating the cause.
  • The problem may return days or weeks later if the root cause isn’t addressed.
  • A good plumber provides a solution, not just a clean pipe.

Tip: SE Plumbing uses cameras, pressure testing, and condition reports to ensure your system is healthy long after we leave.

9. Blocked Drains Can Affect Your Insurance

  • Water damage from blocked drains may not be covered if the insurer deems it preventable.
  • Regular maintenance records can help support a claim.
  • Delayed response or chemical misuse may invalidate coverage.

Tip: Keep receipts and service reports from licensed plumbers like SE Plumbing to strengthen your claim if needed.

10. You Can Prevent Most Blocked Drains with Simple Changes

  • Avoid tipping oil and fat down the kitchen sink
  • Use hair catchers in showers and bathroom basins
  • Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and waste
  • Schedule annual plumbing checks, especially in older homes

Tip: We offer long-term advice and preventive care with every Blocked Drains service.

Stop the Blockage Cycle, Call SE Plumbing Today

Blocked drains aren’t just a nuisance, they’re a sign that something deeper is going on. The truth is that most blockages are preventable if caught early and treated properly. SE Plumbing doesn’t just clear clogs, we explain the cause, give you options, and help protect your property from future damage. Whether it’s your first blocked drain or a recurring issue, we’re here to help.

Call SE Plumbing on 0414 651 351 or book your blocked drain inspection online and get the full picture—not just a quick fix.