Precision Plumbing

PRECISION PLUMBING macleod

Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are usually caused by tree roots, or a build-up of debris, and if left unattended can lead to serious damage.

With the latest CCTV camera and locating technology, we’re able to identify the precise location of a blockage down to the millimetre.

Precision Plumbing uses a high-pressure jetting machine to break through even the toughest blockages—quickly, cleanly, and affordably.

Blocked Drains macleod

Why Precision Plumbing for Blocked Drains?

High-Tech Drain Camera

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

Complete Blockage Removal

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

Fix with minimal mess

We repair clogged or damaged pipes cleanly and cost-effectively.

How to Tell If You Have a Blocked Drain

Plumbing and drainage systems in homes and businesses use a network of pipes. Fresh water is brought in through one set, while wastewater is removed through others to a septic or sewer facility.

Blocked drains or pipes can present in different ways depending on the situation. If you observe any of the following signs, it’s best to call in a professional:

  • Noticeably slow drainage from basins, showers, or bathtubs.
  • Gurgling noises during drainage, typically caused by air bubbles forming around a blockage.
  • Foul odours near drains or pipes, often caused by blockages from grease, food, or waste buildup.
  • 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.

Getting in touch with us early improves the chances of catching the problem before it leads to major blockages or costly water damage.

Typical Causes of Drain Blockages

Even if you’ve noticed signs of a blocked drain, you might not be certain about what caused it.

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.
  • A buildup of hair and debris in bathroom pipes and drains, especially sinks and showers.
  • Improper disposal of kitchen scraps like food bits and coffee grounds can lead to blockages.
  • Soap residue may combine with hard water minerals, forming scum that clings to pipe interiors.
  • Non-flushable materials—like cotton buds, tampons or pads, or even toys—can block toilets and drains when flushed.
  • Broken or displaced pipes. If a pipe has a cracked or textured edge, it’s more likely to catch solids and create a buildup of solids and waste.
  • Plumbing installed without care can result in misfitting pipes, where solids are more likely to catch and build up.

The contributing factors may also vary depending on whether your building is residential or commercial.

In residential buildings, we see a lot of issues with low-flow toilets and buildups of soap and hair.

In commercial or industrial buildings, it’s common to see buildups due to grease, particularly where large amounts of food are being prepared, or non-flushable bathroom items, like sanitary products.

Ways to Prevent Drain Blockages

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.

Hot Water macleod

When Should You Call a Licensed Plumber?

You might be asking yourself whether it’s possible to clear a blocked drain on your own or if it’s time to call a plumber.

There are a few DIY steps you can try, particularly if the blockage is caused by a buildup of materials from inside your home or business. For instance, you may be able to use warm water and vinegar to clear grease and fat, or hot water and bleach to clear hair and 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.
  • Their training, licences and expertise. Plumbers have the necessary qualifications to deal with a wide range of blockages and in a range of settings, including residential, commercial and industrial.
  • Plumbers offer full-service solutions—from diagnosing and resolving the current problem to preventing future blockages and repairing infrastructure.
  • And let’s not forget personal safety. Plumbers have the training needed to handle blockages that involve hazardous materials or sewerage lines and facilities.

In the end, fixing a drain yourself can take more time and money than expected—and may even lead to more damage. Choosing a professional plumber ensures faster, more precise, and budget-friendly results.

Precision Plumbing delivers top-tier service that meets all commercial plumbing standards. From blocked drains to broken pipes and everything in between, our expert plumbers are ready to help.

blocked drain repair

Drain clearing experts in Macleod, VIC and nearby suburbs

For any plumbing concerns—whether it’s blocked pipes or general repairs—reach out to Precision Plumbing. We deliver comprehensive plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties across Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs.

Our qualified and experienced plumbers are equipped to handle all types of plumbing work, large or small. You can count on us for trustworthy service, fair fixed pricing, and a friendly approach.