Dealing with Blocked Drains? Here’s What to Do
Blocked drains or sewer plumbing blockages can be a major inconvenience, quickly throwing your day off track. At Alfa Plumbing in Cairns, our team use plumbing camera inspection technology to pinpoint drain blockages with precision.
This allows us to identify and address the root cause of the problem quickly, minimising disruption to your home or business. Once diagnosed, we efficiently unblock drainage and perform maintenance to help prevent future issues. With Alfa Plumbing, you can count on a smooth, reliable drainage system tailored to your needs.
Some common causes of blocked drains are listed below.
Tree Roots
As trees grow, their roots can extend deep into the ground and infiltrate your drainage system causing blocked drains. It’s important to regularly carry out drain and pipe cleaning to prevent tree roots from causing major issues.
Hair & Soap Residue
When we shower or wash, hair and soap particles can go down the drain and build up over time. This can result in either a clogged bathroom sink or clogged shower drain.
Foreign Items
Small toys, jewellery and dental floss can easily find their way into drains by accident. If a foreign item does get stuck in your drain, it is best to call Alfa immediately.
Heavy Rain or Storm
Excessive rainfall may lead to flooding, straining your pipes and causing backups. Storms can also cause sudden pressure changes in your plumbing system, leading to unexpected blockages like a blocked storm water drain.
Mineral Deposits
Mineral deposits are natural occurrences of various types of minerals and metal ores that have accumulated within pipes over time. These deposits can significantly reduce the diameter of your pipes, hindering water flow and eventually cause a blocked drain.
Leaves & Debris
Leaves and debris can cause clogs and blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. Debris build up can very quickly become the typical blocked drain pipe outside which can overflow and cause extended damage.
Grease & Fats
Grease and fats from cooking oils, animal fats and plant oils can cause blockages if disposed of incorrectly. When these substances solidify, they can build up in your pipes leading to clogs and slow drainage.
Poor Workmanship
Poorly installed pipes, joints or fixtures can result in leaks, misaligned connections or even structural issues like blocked drains. Our expert licensed plumbers ensure every installation is done right, preventing future problems and giving you peace of mind.
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Identifying a Blockage
Common signs of a blockage include water draining slower than usual, gurgling sounds coming from pipes or water backing up into sinks, showers or toilets. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid more significant complications. This is where the Alfa Plumbing team is ready to provide the best plumbing solutions for you.
With the help of advanced diagnostic tools, including specialised cameras, we precisely locate the source of the issue. This approach allows us to deliver a targeted resolution for you. Whether it is to clear a sewer pipe blockage or a clogged kitchen sink drain, our experts are here to help. We focus on maintaining efficiency while minimising any risk of further damage to your pipes or system.
We may recommend using our water jetter as the best approach for your unique situation. Either way, with Alfa Plumbing expertise and advanced tools, you can trust us to resolve the problem quickly and professionally.
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When To Call A Licensed Plumber
Calling Alfa Plumbing is the smartest and safest choice in any circumstance. Here are some clear signs it’s time to reach out.
Drainage Worsening – such as water pooling around in a sink or shower for longer than normal and increasing over time. Avoid chemical drain cleaners as they can cause expensive damage.
Multiple Drains Are Backing Up – a toilet is gurgling while you run a load of laundry, or both your kitchen and bathroom sinks aren’t draining. This could be a severe blockage in the main sewer line that only a plumber can fix.
Clogs in High Traffic Areas – kitchen and bathroom sinks are some of the most frequently used fixtures in your home, making them essential to your daily routine. A clog in these areas can disrupt cooking, cleaning and personal hygiene.
You’ve Tried DIY Solutions Without Success – it’s better not to take the risk of making a problem worse. Instead, call Alfa first up!
Stormwater Drains Are Overflowing – these can lead to serious flooding after just one heavy downpour in the Cairns area. If water pools around your property or runs over the drain grate, contact our professional Alfa plumbers before the next heavy rain makes the issue worse.
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How We Fix Clogged Drains
At Alfa, we know how frustrating blocked drains can be, which is why our team is committed to delivering fast, reliable solutions to tackle any drain issue.
When you contact us about a blockage, we begin with a detailed inspection using advanced tools like drain cameras. This cutting edge technology allows us to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the clog, enabling us to craft a solution tailored specifically to your needs.
When a blockage is detected, we employ advanced techniques to clear it quickly and with minimal disruption. Our high pressure water jetter offers a fast, non invasive solution. Alternatively, specialised mechanical drain cleaning tools are available when better suited to the task. Your satisfaction and the long term efficiency of your drainage system remain our highest priorities.
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Simple Ways to Keep Your Pipes Clog Free
Oils – Don’t pour grease, oil, coffee grounds or food scraps down the sink.
Strainer – Use a strainer to catch solids & throw them in the bin or compost.
Screens – Use screens over bathroom & shower drains to catch hair, soap residue & debris that can cause clogs. Clean them regularly.
Chemicals – Don’t use chemical drain cleaners as they can damage pipes.
Hot Water – Flushing drains with hot water occasionally can clear minor grease & soap buildup, keeping pipes clear.
Regular plumbing maintenance is key to keeping your home’s system running smoothly and lasting longer. By following a few simple tips and checking for blocked drains, you can save on expensive repairs and unexpected headaches. With the right care, your plumbing can keep working flawlessly for years. However, if in doubt call Alfa any time for some advice, maintenance or inspection.
Got blocked drains or other plumbing problems? Alfa Plumbing Gas Services has you covered. From expert advice to reliable maintenance and repairs, we’re here to take care of all your plumbing needs with care and precision.
Alfa Plumbing Gas Services provides local & affordable emergency plumbing, hot water systems, renovations & more in Cairns.
From emergency repairs and routine maintenance to installations and renovations, we prioritise your satisfaction and peace of mind.
Call us today! Or fill out our contact us form.