Behind the Blockage: Understanding the Causes of Clogged Drains
From Grease to Hair: Identifying the Culprits of Blocked Pipes and Preventing Future Blockages
Sewer line blockages
This can cause the pipes to crack and become blocked with debris. Broken or collapsed pipes can also lead to blockages as water and waste cannot flow through the damaged areas. Additionally, flushing items such as flushable wipes can also cause blockages as they do not break down as easily as toilet paper. It’s important to address a blocked sewer line promptly to prevent further damage to your plumbing system.
Drain overflowing, slow drains and gurgling noises from drains? Blocked sewer line could be caused by tree roots, broken pipe or flushable wipes
Kitchen sink blockages
One of the most common causes of kitchen sink blockages is the buildup of food particles and oil. When cooking, it’s easy for small bits of food to make their way down the drain and eventually build up over time. This is especially true for homes that use a garbage disposal unit, as even small bits of food can cause blockages if not disposed of properly. Oil is another culprit, as it can easily solidify and stick to the walls of pipes, creating blockages that become increasingly difficult to remove.
To prevent kitchen sink blockages, it’s important to avoid pouring oil down the drain and instead dispose of it in a separate container for disposal. Additionally, using a drain strainer can help catch food particles before they make their way down the drain. If a blockage does occur, it’s important to address it promptly to avoid further damage to your plumbing system.
Most of the time kitchen sinks back up from food particles and oil. Over time oil will build up get blocked
Toilet blockages
Toilet blockages are a common plumbing issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. One common culprit is flushable wipes, which can cause blockages even if they are marketed as “flushable”. While these wipes may go down the toilet easily, they do not break down like toilet paper and can cause blockages in the pipes. Additionally, using an excess amount of toilet paper can also cause blockages, as too much paper can clog the pipes and prevent water and waste from flowing properly.
Toilet air fresheners can also cause blockages as they can get stuck in the pipes and prevent water and waste from flowing through. Finally, some water-saving toilet cisterns may not have enough water pressure to effectively flush away waste, leading to blockages. To prevent toilet blockages, it’s important to avoid flushing non-degradable items such as wipes or excessive amounts of toilet paper. Additionally, using a plunger to address blockages as soon as they occur can help prevent them from becoming more severe.
Toilets sometimes get blocked by flushable wipes, excess amount of toilet paper, toilet air fresheners and water-saving toilet cistern
Stormwater blockages
Blocked stormwater lines are a common issue that can cause significant damage to properties and the surrounding environment. There are several reasons why stormwater lines can become blocked, including the buildup of dirt, mud, and leaves over time. These materials can accumulate and form blockages that prevent water from flowing freely through the pipes. Additionally, tree roots can also grow into the pipes and cause blockages as they search for water and nutrients.
Broken pipes can also cause blockages as water and debris can become trapped in the damaged areas. Blocked stormwater lines can cause flooding and erosion, which can damage properties and the surrounding environment. To prevent stormwater line blockages, it’s important to regularly clear gutters and remove any debris that may be obstructing the flow of water. Additionally, ensuring that trees and shrubs are not planted too close to stormwater pipes can help prevent roots from damaging the pipes. Regular inspections and maintenance of stormwater systems can help identify and address blockages before they become a more significant issue.
Blocked stormwater lines can happen for multiple reasons. Dirt, mud, leaves, tree roots or broken pipes
Bathroom blockages
Bathroom drains and shower drains can easily become blocked due to a variety of factors. One of the most common culprits is hair, which can easily accumulate and cause blockages if not removed. Additionally, soap scum, body oils, and other gunk can also build up over time and create blockages that prevent water from flowing freely through the pipes. Broken pipes can also contribute to blockages as debris can become trapped in the damaged areas.
Blocked bathroom and shower drains can be frustrating to deal with and can even lead to water damage if left unaddressed. To prevent blockages, it’s important to regularly clean and maintain bathroom and shower drains. Using a drain strainer can help catch hair and other debris before it enters the drain. Additionally, regular cleaning with vinegar and baking soda can help dissolve buildup and prevent blockages from forming. If a blockage does occur, it’s important to address it promptly to avoid further damage to your plumbing system.
Bathroom drains and shower drains can block up from hair, gunk and broken pipes
About Us
SalCo Plumbing are your local Plumber for the Norwest Area. We serve the most competitive plumbing. We are the number one blocked drain specialist in the Hills and Western Sydney area offering professional service. We also specialise in a range of other plumbing services including; blocked toilets, blocked drains, CCTV drain camera inspections, jet blasting, Pipe repair and Re-lining, leaky pipes and maintenance plumbing. Based in West Pennant Hills we service the surrounding area including; Castle Hill, Pennant Hills, Baulkham Hills, Bella Vista, Glenwood, Kellyville, Glenhaven, Westleigh, Hornsby, Cherrybrook, Thornleigh , Beecroft