Precision Plumbing

PRECISION PLUMBING saint helena

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?

CCTV drain camera

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

Clear all blockages

Our team is skilled in removing tree roots and even the most persistent blockages.

Low-Mess, Professional Drain Fixes

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

Common Warning Signs of 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.

There are several signs that may indicate a blocked pipe or drain. If you experience any of the issues below, we suggest getting expert help promptly:

  • 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 do not flush as they should or that overflow, commonly due to a blockage in the pipe or drainage system.
  • 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.

What Causes Blocked Drains?

You may have identified one or more of the above signs of a blocked drain, but you’re unsure how the blockage happened.

Drain blockages happen for one or more of these reasons:

  • Tree roots, leaves, and twigs often enter underground drains—roots seek out moisture, while leaves and twigs wash in from gutters and downpipes.
  • 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.
  • Improper disposal of kitchen scraps like food bits and coffee grounds can lead to blockages.
  • Soap scum and residue can build up in pipes, particularly when these substances mix with minerals in the water and solidify.
  • Non-flushable materials—like cotton buds, tampons or pads, or even toys—can block toilets and drains when flushed.
  • Cracked or misaligned pipes can trap solids, increasing the risk of frequent blockages.
  • 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.

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.

Tips for Avoiding a Blocked Drain

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.

Installing a strainer or gutter guard helps block leaves, roots, and debris from entering your drains and causing major clogs.

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Knowing When to Contact a Professional 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:

  • With access to advanced tech such as drain cameras and hydro-jets, plumbers can locate and clear blockages swiftly and with minimal disruption.
  • Their formal training and certification equip them to handle complex blockages across residential, commercial, and industrial sites.
  • Plumbers offer full-service solutions—from diagnosing and resolving the current problem to preventing future blockages and repairing infrastructure.
  • 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.

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 team is here to assist.

blocked drain repair

Drain clearing experts in Saint Helena, VIC and nearby 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.