Blocked drains are a common problem in many Adelaide homes. They're messy, annoying, and can cause serious damage if left alone. The good news is, most drain blockages can be avoided with a little care and attention. Whether it's the kitchen sink, bathroom shower, or outdoor drains, knowing what to do (and what not to do) makes a big difference.
In this guide, we'll explain the everyday habits that lead to blocked drains and share simple tips to help you prevent them. It's not complicated, just easy steps to keep your plumbing flowing freely.
1. Watch What Goes Down the Kitchen Sink
One of the main reasons for blocked drains is what we put down the sink. Food scraps, cooking oil, grease, and even coffee grounds can build up over time and clog the pipes.
To keep your kitchen drain clear:
- Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing.
- Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps.
- Avoid pouring oil or fat down the sink, put it in a container and throw it in the bin instead.
Even small bits can stick to the inside of your pipes and slowly create a blockage.
2. Be Careful in the Bathroom
Hair, soap, toothpaste, and even shampoo can cause drain trouble in your bathroom. These things can stick together and form a clog in the pipes under your shower or basin.
Here's what helps:
- Use a drain cover or hair catcher in your shower.
- Remove built-up hair from the cover after each shower.
- Try not to flush things like baby wipes, cotton pads, or tissues down the toilet, they don't break down like toilet paper and can block the system.
Remember, only three things should go down the toilet: pee, poo, and toilet paper.
3. Clean Your Drains Regularly
You don't need harsh chemicals to keep your drains clean. In fact, some store-bought cleaners can damage your pipes over time. Instead, try these simple home remedies:
- Hot water rinse: Once a week, pour a kettle of hot (not boiling) water down the sink to help dissolve minor grease build-up.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Every few weeks, pour half a cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it bubble for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
These natural methods can help keep smells and slow drainage at bay.
4. Keep an Eye on Outdoor Drains
Outdoor drains can also get blocked, especially during storms or windy weather. Leaves, mud, sticks, and even litter can block the grates and lead to pooling water or flooding.
To avoid this:
- Sweep up leaves and debris around your yard.
- Clear garden waste away from outdoor drain covers.
- Check gutters and downpipes for blockages a few times a year, especially in autumn.
If you notice water draining slowly from outdoor areas, don't wait, it's a sign something is stuck.
5. Teach the Family Drain-Safe Habits
If everyone in the house knows what not to put down the drains, you're halfway there. Even kids can learn to scrape plates before washing or put hair in the bin instead of the sink. Make a habit of checking drains together once a month. It's a small task that saves you time and money in the long run.
6. Know the Signs of a Blocked Drain
Even with good habits, things can still go wrong. That's why it helps to know what to look out for:
- Water is draining slowly from sinks or showers
- Gurgling noises from drains
- Bad smells are coming from the pipes
- Water backs up from one drain when you use another.
If you notice any of these, it's best to act fast. In many cases, calling a professional early can prevent bigger problems. For serious issues, like tree roots in pipes or stubborn clogs, only a qualified, blocked drains plumber Adelaide can properly inspect and fix the problem using tools like CCTV and hydro jets.
7. Schedule a Drain Inspection
Just like you service your car, it's smart to have your drains checked once in a while—especially if you live in an older home or have had blockages before. A regular inspection can spot small issues before they turn into emergencies. Many plumbers now offer camera inspections, which can show exactly what's going on inside your pipes without digging anything up.
Final Thoughts
Blocked drains are a hassle, but they're also one of the easiest home problems to prevent. With simple daily habits, a bit of cleaning, and knowing the warning signs, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home running smoothly. And if things do get messy, don't worry. Help is just a call away. When you need expert advice or emergency support, Distinct Plumbing is here to help. Their friendly and professional team is trusted across Adelaide for clearing and preventing drain problems of all kinds.
