Precision Plumbing

PRECISION PLUMBING reservoir

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.

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

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Why Choose Precision Plumbing for Your Blocked Drain Needs?

Advanced CCTV Drain Camera Inspection

We use advanced CCTV and location tools to accurately pinpoint where the blockage is.

Thorough Clearing of All Drain Obstructions

We have the expertise to clear all tree roots and stubborn blockages.

Low-Mess, Professional Drain Fixes

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

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 do not flush as they should or that overflow, commonly due to a blockage in the pipe or drainage system.
  • Water gathering or pooling around sinks, shower drains, or near drain covers outside. This may mean water isn’t flowing as it should be.

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

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

Blocked drains often occur due to one or more of the following factors:

  • Tree roots, leaves, and twigs often enter underground drains—roots seek out moisture, while leaves and twigs wash in from gutters and downpipes.
  • Oils and fats from cooking can solidify along pipe walls, gradually restricting water movement.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Sometimes, poor workmanship from plumbers is to blame. If an incorrectly sized or positioned pipe is installed, the flowing water will catch on solid materials and create a blockage.

What causes a blockage can differ based on whether the property is a home or a commercial building.

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

Regular drain servicing can prevent bigger problems—book a yearly inspection with your plumber to keep everything running smoothly.

Being mindful of what goes down your drains—like oils, food waste, or toiletries—can significantly reduce the chance of blockages.

A drain strainer or gutter guard can also stop the materials above, or tree roots and leaves, from infiltrating your drains and pipes and creating a costly blockage.

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When Do You Need a Professional Plumbing Service?

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.

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.

When home remedies don’t solve the issue—or if you’re uncertain—it’s wise to call in a plumbing expert. Professional plumbers offer benefits such as:

  • 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.
  • Their comprehensive service. Plumbers have the ability to diagnose the underlying issue, prevent recurring problems, and avoid further damage, or fix any broken drains or pipes.
  • Plumbers know how to safely address dangerous blockages, including those involving sewerage systems and potentially harmful materials.

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

Blocked drain specialists serving Reservoir, VIC and surrounding suburbs

Having issues with blocked drains or pipes? Contact Precision Plumbing—we offer a full suite of plumbing repair and maintenance services to homes and businesses throughout 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.