At Prorec Plumbing, we understand the urgency and frustration that comes with plumbing blockages. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing top-tier, reliable services to address and resolve these issues for our clients. Whether it’s a simple fix or a complex excavation, our team is equipped with the knowledge, experience, and tools to get your plumbing system back in order quickly.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the common causes of plumbing blockages we encounter, the signs you should watch for, and how our expert team at Prorec Plumbing tackles these challenges head-on, ensuring peace of mind and the smooth running of your household’s plumbing systems.
Common Causes of Plumbing Blockages
Understanding the common causes of plumbing blockages can help you prevent them and maintain a smoothly running system. From invasive tree roots to everyday household waste, the origins of blockages are varied but often preventable with the right knowledge and practices. Below are some common causes:
Tree Roots in Drains
One common yet often overlooked cause of plumbing blockages is tree roots invading drainage systems. Tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture in pipes, and even the smallest crack can provide an entry point for these roots to grow and eventually block the flow of water.
This problem is not always apparent from the surface, making it a particularly tricky issue to diagnose without the right equipment. We use specialised cameras to inspect pipes for root intrusion, allowing us to pinpoint the problem area and address it directly, often without the need for extensive excavation.
Blocked Toilet
A blocked toilet is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a disruption to your daily life and can quickly become a sanitary issue if not addressed promptly. At Prorec Plumbing, we deal with different blocked toilet issues. From the simple accumulation of non-flushable items to more complex issues like pipe collapses we’ve tackled them all. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment to identify the blockage’s cause, followed by a strategic plan to clear the obstruction without causing further damage to your plumbing system.
Food Waste
Leftover food scraps thrown into the sink can create clogs, especially if there’s no garbage disposal unit. These scraps can accumulate and form blockages that prevent water from flowing smoothly. It’s essential to dispose of food waste properly and avoid letting it go down the drain.
Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)
These substances are notorious for causing plumbing issues. When poured down the sink, they may seem harmless at first, but as they cool, they solidify and stick to the insides of pipes, gradually building up and causing significant blockages. It’s crucial to dispose of fats, oils, and grease in the trash rather than washing them down the drain.
Flushable Wipes and Feminine Products
Despite being marketed as flushable, these items are a leading cause of blockages in household plumbing. They don’t break down easily in water, leading to clogs that can be challenging to clear. Always dispose of wipes and feminine products in the trash to avoid plumbing problems.
Foreign Objects
Children’s toys, household objects, or other items not meant for the plumbing system can create blockages if flushed or washed down drains. It’s important to keep an eye on small objects that could accidentally end up in the toilet or sink and cause a blockage.
Remember to prevent these blockages by proper disposal of waste and regular maintenance of your plumbing system.
The Connection Between Old Drains & Big Trees
The risk of blockages increases significantly in properties with older drainage systems and large, mature trees. Older pipes, often made from materials more susceptible to cracking and breaking, can become prime targets for root intrusion. When combined with the natural growth of tree roots, this can lead to frequent and severe blockages.
Our team at Prorec Plumbing has extensive experience in dealing with these complex situations, employing a range of techniques from root cutting to pipe relining to ensure your drains are clear and functional.
Signs Of Drain Blockages
Recognizing the signs early can save you frustration and costly repairs. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Foul Odor: Unpleasant smells coming from your drain could indicate a blockage. Buildup of food particles, fat, or other waste can cause a bad smell.
Slow Drainage: This is one of the most apparent signs of a blockage. If your sink, bathtub, or shower takes longer than usual to drain, it may be due to a clog.
Gurgling Sounds: Unusual noises coming from the drains, especially gurgling sounds, can indicate a blockage further down the line.- Water Backup: If water starts coming back up out of the drain, this is a very clear sign of a drain blockage.
- Frequent Plunging Needed: If you find that you’re regularly needing to use a plunger to clear a toilet, this could indicate a deeper blockage in the pipes.
- Overflows: Toilet bowl overflow, even when not in use, could be a symptom of a sewer drain clog.
- Pooling Water: Water pooling near shower drains or any unusual gathering of water around household drains can be a hint that the drainage is not functioning correctly due to a blockage.
- Changes in Flush: Inconsistent or weak toilet flush could be an indicator of a blockage in the waste pipes.
- Raised Water Levels: If the water level in your toilet bowl is noticeably higher or lower than normal, this might indicate a sewer drain blockage.
- Fruit Flies or Drain Flies: If you notice an infestation of small flies or gnats, particularly around your kitchen or bathroom sink, it could suggest a lingering blockage causing organic material to decay, which attracts these pests.
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At Prorec Plumbing, we encourage homeowners to be vigilant and to contact us at the first sign of trouble. Early intervention can save time and money and prevent potential damage to your property.
Problems With Storm Water
Blockages aren’t confined to your home’s internal plumbing; they can also affect your stormwater systems. Stormwater blockages can lead to significant issues, especially during heavy rainfall. These blockages can cause water to back up, leading to flooding and potential damage to your property’s foundation and landscaping. Debris, leaves, and even tree roots can obstruct stormwater drains. Our team is equipped to handle these challenges. We use high-pressure water jets to clear your stormwater system, ensuring it’s ready to handle the next downpour.
Our Equipment & Solutions
At Prorec Plumbing Solutions, we’re equipped with the latest technology and tools to address any blockage, no matter its cause or complexity. From high-pressure water jets capable of cutting through the toughest blockages to sophisticated camera systems for inspecting pipes, our arsenal is designed to tackle blockages efficiently and quickly.
Our commitment to using the best tools for the job means that we resolve issues with minimal disruption to your property and your life.
For a closer look at how we tackle some of the toughest plumbing challenges, here is a quick video where Ricky from Prorec Plumbing shares insights from on-site experiences, highlighting the common issues we encounter and the effective solutions we provide.
From tree root invasions in drains to emergency blocked toilets, Ricky covers the essentials of maintaining a smooth-running plumbing system, emphasising the importance of quick action and professional intervention.
Keeping Your Water Flowing: The Prorec Plumbing Promise
Blockages can be a nuisance and a plumbing nightmare at worst, but with Prorec Plumbing, you’re in capable hands. Whether you’re dealing with a minor toilet block or a root intrusion in your drainage system, our team is ready to provide swift and effective solutions.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs of a blockage or just want to ensure your plumbing is in top condition, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Remember, the sooner a plumbing issue is addressed, the easier and less costly it is to resolve. Let’s work together to keep your water flowing smoothly and your home free from plumbing worries.
Emergency? Call us your local plumber! 0421 411 146
