Common Causes of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can happen for all sorts of reasons. Here are some common culprits:

1. Hair and Soap Scum

These usually block up bathroom sinks and shower drains.

2. Grease and Food Scraps

A big problem in the kitchen sink.

3. Tree Roots

These can sneak into underground pipes and cause serious blockages.

4. Debris and Waste

Often found clogging outside or stormwater drains.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you dive into fixing the problem, it’s good to have the right tools on hand:

✔ Drain snake or a hair clog remover

✔ Dish soap

✔ Baking soda and white vinegar

✔ Hot or boiling water

✔ Plunger

✔ Commercial drain cleaner (only if needed, and with caution)

Steps to Clear a Blocked Drain

1. Hair and Soap Scum

Pour boiling water down the drain. This is great for loosening up grease and soap residue, especially in kitchen and bathroom sinks.

2. Use Dish Soap for Grease

If it’s a greasy blockage, squirt some dish soap into the drain and follow it up with hot water. The soap will break down the grease and help it flow away.

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar

• Pour a cup of baking soda into the drain.
• Add a cup of white vinegar and let it fizz away for 15–20 minutes.
• Rinse with hot water to flush it through.
  

4. Bring Out the Drain Snake

For tougher blockages like hair or food scraps, use a drain snake. Push it into the drain, twist it around, and pull it out to remove the gunk.

5. Give the Plunger a Go

Place the plunger firmly over the drain and pump it up and down. The suction can dislodge the blockage and get things moving again.

6. Be Cautious With Chemical Cleaners

If nothing else works, you can try a commercial drain cleaner. But steer clear of these if your pipes are metal, as they can cause long-term damage.

5. When to Call a Plumber

If none of these tricks do the job or you suspect tree roots or a sewer issue, it’s time to bring in the professionals. A qualified plumber can handle more serious problems with tools like jetters or cameras to get to the root of the issue.

Tips to Prevent Blocked Drains

• Don’t pour grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the sink.
• Use a drain cover in the shower to catch hair.
• Never flush things like wet wipes or sanitary items, even if they say “flushable.”
• Keep an eye on outside drains, especially after storms, and schedule regular maintenance.
  

Got a Blocked Drain? Call Convenient Plumbing Now!

Don’t let a blocked drain disrupt your day! Convenient Plumbing Services specialises in clearing all types of blockages quickly and affordably. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, bathroom drain, or an outdoor issue, our experienced team is ready to help. 

Call us today for same-day service and say goodbye to stubborn clogs!