Emergency Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can be caused by a variety of factors, with some of the most common culprits being:

Hair: Over time, hair can accumulate in drain pipes, causing blockages that prevent water from flowing freely.

Grease: When grease or oil is poured down a drain, it can solidify and stick to the inside of pipes, eventually causing blockages.

Food scraps: Food waste, such as coffee grounds, eggshells, and vegetable peelings, can also build up in pipes and cause blockages.

Foreign objects: Non-flushable items, such as wipes, sanitary products, and dental floss, can get stuck in pipes and cause blockages.

Tree roots: Roots from trees and shrubs can infiltrate drainpipes and cause blockages by growing inside or around the pipes, eventually leading to pipe damage or collapse.

Damaged or collapsed pipes: Pipes that are damaged or collapsed due to age, corrosion, or ground movement can cause blockages or even complete pipe failure.

It's important to note that some of these causes may be more prevalent in certain areas or types of buildings. For example, hair and soap scum may be more likely to cause blockages in shower drains, while tree roots may be more common in older buildings with clay or concrete pipes. Regular drain cleaning and maintenance can help prevent blockages from forming and identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Blocked drains can cause a range of symptoms that can indicate a problem, including:

Slow draining: If water is slow to drain from your sink, shower, or bathtub, it could be a sign of a blocked drain.

Standing water: If water is standing in your sink, shower, or bathtub, it could indicate a blockage in the drain.

Gurgling sounds: If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains or toilet, it could be a sign of a blockage in your pipes.

Bad smells: Unpleasant odors coming from your drains or toilet can be a sign of a blockage or a sewer backup.

Overflowing toilet: If your toilet overflows when you flush it, it could indicate a blockage in the drain or a problem with the sewer line.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse. In some cases, attempting to fix the problem yourself can cause further damage or be dangerous, so it's best to call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue. A qualified plumber will have the tools and expertise to locate the blockage and clear it safely and effectively.

While there are some DIY methods for clearing blocked drains, such as using a plunger or drain snake, it's generally best to leave it to the professionals. Attempting to clear a blocked drain without the proper equipment or knowledge can cause further damage to your pipes.

The time it takes to clear a blocked drain can vary depending on the severity of the blockage and the type of equipment needed to clear it. In general, most blockages can be cleared within an hour or two.

To prevent blocked drains in the future, it's important to avoid flushing inappropriate materials down the toilet or pouring grease or food scraps down the sink. Regularly cleaning your drains with a mixture of hot water and vinegar can also help prevent blockages from forming.

Professional plumbers have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to diagnose and fix blocked drains quickly and effectively, often with less disruption to your property. They can also identify and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the blockage, preventing future problems.

The cost of clearing a blocked drain can vary depending on the severity of the blockage, the location of the blockage, and the type of equipment needed to clear it. In general, most professional plumbers will offer a fixed-price quote based on an assessment of the problem.

The time it takes to clear a blocked drain can vary depending on the severity of the blockage and the type of equipment needed to clear it. In general, most blockages can be cleared within an hour or two, but more complex blockages may take longer to clear.