Precision Plumbing

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Blocked Drains

Tree roots and accumulated debris are common causes of blocked drains, and ignoring them can result in significant plumbing damage.

Our high-tech CCTV drain inspection tools allow us to locate blockages with near-millimetre precision.

With our high-pressure jet machine, Precision Plumbing can clear even the most stubborn of blockages, no matter what the cause. We ensure that all blockages are repaired with minimal mess and at a very competitive price.

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What Makes Precision Plumbing the Right Choice for Blocked Drains?

Advanced CCTV Drain Camera Inspection

Using our CCTV drain camera and locator, we can identify the precise location of the blockage.

Thorough Clearing of All Drain Obstructions

We’re fully equipped to handle tree root intrusions and tough drain blockages with expert precision.

Fix with minimal mess

Clogged or damaged pipes can be fixed with minimal mess and at the best price.

How to Tell If You Have a Blocked Drain

Every home or business relies on a plumbing and drainage system made up of pipes and drains. Clean water flows in through supply pipes, while wastewater is directed out through drains to a septic tank or the sewer system.

The signs of a blocked drain or pipe can vary based on a number of factors. We recommend seeking out professional assistance if you notice one or more of these signs:

  • Sinks, showers, or bathtubs draining more slowly than usual.
  • Strange gurgling noises when water is flowing. These noises are often caused by the trapped air bubbles created by a blockage.
  • Bad smells coming from your sink or drain pipes, possibly due to trapped debris or a partial blockage.
  • Toilets that overflow or don’t flush properly. Malfunctioning toilets may either signal a blockage in the toilet pipe or in a drain.
  • Standing water around sinks, showers, or outside drains—a potential sign of improper drainage or blockage.

The earlier you contact us, the more likely it is we can diagnose the issue and help prevent bigger blockage problems or water damage later on.

Common Reasons Drains Become Blocked

You could be seeing the symptoms of a blocked drain but still be unclear about how the blockage occurred.

Drain blockages happen for one or more of these reasons:

  • Leaves, twigs, and tree roots are common culprits—roots grow into underground pipes, while debris flows through roof gutters and downpipes into stormwater drains.
  • Grease, fats, and cooking oils harden inside pipes, forming blockages that slow or stop water flow.
  • Bathroom drains can clog with hair and debris over time, particularly in showers and basins.
  • Bits of food, coffee grounds, and other kitchen waste not disposed of properly.
  • Scum from soap and minerals can collect in pipes over time, gradually leading to restricted flow.
  • Foreign objects flushed down toilets and drains. These non-flushable items include face wipes, tampons and pads, cotton buds, and children’s toys.
  • Damaged or shifted pipe sections tend to snag waste material, causing buildup and drainage problems.
  • Improper installation—like misaligned or wrong-sized pipes—can lead to flow issues and recurring blockages.

Factors leading to blockages often vary between residential and commercial properties.

Common residential plumbing problems often involve low-flow toilets and the accumulation of soap scum and hair.

Commercial and industrial buildings commonly experience drain issues from grease buildup in food service areas and the disposal of non-flushable items such as sanitary products.

How Do You Avoid a Drain Blockage?

Preventing future drain blockages is possible by following practices like:

Frequent drain cleaning and maintenance. If in doubt, arrange an annual appointment with your plumber to make sure your plumbing and drainage system is in good working order.

The responsible disposal of waste. Where possible, avoid pouring or flushing grease, food scraps, fallen hair, toiletries, or other foreign objects down drains and pipes.

Drain strainers and gutter guards are effective at preventing solid materials, including roots and leaves, from entering your plumbing system.

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When Should You Call a Licensed Plumber?

It’s a common question: should you try to unblock the drain yourself, or is it best left to a professional plumber?

If the blockage is due to internal build-up, there are a few do-it-yourself methods you can attempt. Warm water with vinegar can help break down grease, while hot water and bleach might clear hair or toiletries.

If DIY solutions fail or you’re unsure what to do next, it’s best to get in touch with a licensed plumber. Here are some key advantages of hiring a professional:

  • Their cutting-edge equipment, including CCTV and high-pressure jetting tools, allows plumbers to pinpoint and resolve issues efficiently.
  • Licensed and highly skilled, plumbers are trained to manage various blockages in different environments with confidence and precision.
  • Their all-in-one service includes identifying root causes, preventing future issues, and repairing any damaged pipes or drains.
  • Safety is key—plumbers are trained to manage hazardous waste and sewer-related issues without risking health or property.

DIY drain fixes often come with hidden costs and risks, including recurring issues or accidental damage. Professional plumbing services offer a more reliable, efficient, and economical solution.

We’re committed to providing high-quality service at Precision Plumbing, fully compliant with commercial plumbing needs. Whether it’s a blockage, burst pipe, or another issue, our plumbers in research are here to assist.

blocked drain repair

Blocked drain specialists serving Research, VIC and surrounding suburbs

If you’re experiencing plumbing problems, including blocked drains and pipes, give us a call at Precision Plumbing. We proudly provide a wide range of plumbing repair and maintenance services for residential and commercial clients across Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs.

No job is too big or too small for our skilled, licensed plumbers. We pride ourselves on offering dependable, honest service with straightforward, competitive pricing.