Close-up of a plumber in blue gloves using a red drain auger to clear a stainless steel kitchen sink, captured in a modern tiled kitchen setting.

Reasons Why Your Drains are Blocked and How South East Plumbing Engadine Can Help

May 15, 20250

Blocked drains are among the most common household issues in Engadine and surrounding suburbs. They can cause unpleasant smells, slow drainage, overflowing toilets, and even serious property damage if left untreated. Understanding what causes blockages and knowing who to call makes all the difference. In this article, we break down the most common reasons your drains are blocked, and why South East Plumbing Engadine is the team locals trust to fix it fast.

1. Hair and Soap Scum

Hair is the number one cause of blockages in bathroom sinks, showers, and floor drains. When combined with soap residue, it sticks to the inside of pipes and forms a clog that worsens with time.

  • Signs include slow draining water and bubbling sounds
  • May cause smells and surface pooling in the shower

Our Blocked Drains service includes clearing and cleaning bathroom pipework.

2. Grease and Oil Build-Up

Grease may go down your kitchen sink as a liquid, but it cools and hardens inside your pipes. Over time, this creates a thick lining that restricts water flow and traps food scraps.

  • Symptoms include slow sink drainage, gurgling, and bad smells
  • Particularly common after hosting or cooking heavy meals

For serious kitchen clogs, our Emergency Plumbing team uses high-pressure jetting to remove built-up grease.

3. Tree Root Intrusion

Large trees are a signature feature of Engadine backyards, but they’re also one of the biggest threats to your underground plumbing. Roots seek moisture and can break into pipes through even the smallest cracks.

  • Tree roots create dense, tangled blockages
  • Roots often affect older homes with clay pipes
  • They can cause recurring blockages, sewer smells, and reverse flow of water/waste

We use CCTV cameras and root-cutting equipment to clear roots safely. Learn more on our Leak Detection and Prevention page.

4. Flushed Non-Flushables

Wipes, nappies, and sanitary items may disappear when flushed, but they don’t break down like toilet paper. These materials collect in sewer lines, causing clogs that affect the whole home.

  • Can block the toilet and cause sewage backflow
  • Often worsens when grease and other debris combine with them
  • May require sewer excavation or pipe relining

If your toilet keeps blocking, it’s time to call SE Plumbing in Engadine.

5. Foreign Objects

Children’s toys, cleaning sponges, and even cutlery have been found in blocked pipes. These objects become lodged in pipe bends and trap other waste around them.

  • Most common in households with small kids or shared bathrooms
  • May require CCTV inspection to locate and remove

Our Emergency Plumbing team is equipped to find and safely extract foreign items.

6. Stormwater Drain Blockage

During heavy rain, outdoor drains can become overwhelmed with leaves, mud, and debris. If your stormwater system isn’t regularly cleared, it can flood your yard or seep into your home.

  • Check grates and outdoor pits regularly for debris
  • Pooling water around the driveway or garden is a common sign

SE Plumbing Engadine clears stormwater drains quickly and can install preventative solutions like leaf guards.

7. Collapsed or Damaged Pipes

Engadine has a mix of old and new homes, and older ones often suffer from pipe movement, cracks, and collapse. This causes debris to collect and restrict flow, resulting in slow or inconsistent drainage.

  • May cause repeated blockages that return soon after being cleared
  • Often discovered during CCTV inspections after failed DIY attempts
  • Can be fixed with trenchless pipe relining or targeted excavation

Learn more about how we handle repairs on our Broken or Damaged Pipes page.

Why Choose South East Plumbing Engadine

We’ve been clearing blocked drains in Engadine for over 20 years. Our team knows the local infrastructure, understands common issues in the area, and offers fast, effective solutions tailored to your home.

  • Based locally with a fast response time
  • Fully licensed and insured plumbing professionals
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
  • CCTV drain inspections and hydro jetting available
  • 24/7 emergency service across the Sutherland Shire

Call 0414 651 351 or book online to schedule a service with your local team.

What You Can Expect From Us

  • Clear explanation of what’s causing your blockage
  • No unnecessary upsells or band-aid fixes
  • Respect for your home and your time
  • Long-term solutions that prevent the issue from returning
  • Friendly, honest service from plumbers who know your area

Don’t wait for a full blockage or a costly clean-up. Our team in Engadine is ready to get your drains flowing again.

Call SE Plumbing for Fast, Trusted Blocked Drain Repairs in Engadine

Blocked drains can be caused by many things, from daily habits to environmental conditions unique to Engadine. Whether it’s a kitchen sink full of grease or a sewer pipe cracked by tree roots, SE Plumbing has the tools, knowledge, and local experience to resolve it properly. With honest advice and same-day service, we’re the plumbing team Engadine trusts.

Call SE Plumbing today on 0414 651 351 or book your blocked drain inspection online.