Blocked drains are nasty, and they’re not something that you want to leave untreated. If you’ve tried plunging to no avail, it’s time to call a plumber!

From a heavy build-up of hair to faulty pipes, there are many reasons your drains could be blocked. Here are some of the most common:

Hair

Human hair is a common cause of blocked drains in Melbourne. The stringy nature of hair allows it to hide in the nooks and crannies of your pipes and trap other debris, leading to a matted mess that robs your drains of their flow.

Over time, this hair mass starts to slow down your drain and produce a rotten-like smell as it decomposes. It can also attract bacteria and other microorganisms, further slowing down your drains.

You can prevent hair clogs by placing a shower drain cover, available at most hardware stores, over your tub or shower drain. In addition, it’s a good idea to regularly flush your drain with hot water and baking soda. These methods are much more effective than using caustic chemicals that can damage your pipes.

Grease/Fat

Food waste like leftover food scraps, lunches and cooking oil can quickly build up inside drains causing them to become blocked. Fatty substances like butter, margarine, vegetable oils, cooking grease and salad dressings are easily poured down the drain in their liquid form but when they solidify they can block your pipes.

The best way to deal with fatty foods is to scrape off any excess before washing it down the drain and throwing it away in the trash bin. Another problem with greasy food waste is that it attracts other types of waste, including sanitary products, disposable nappies and wet wipes, which can all lead to blockages in the toilet and the septic system. These clogs are also difficult to fix without professional help.

Toys

A small piece of kids’ toy, a baby wipe or even a disposable plastic bag can fall down the drain and cause a blockage. You can help prevent this by installing a strainer in your drain and making sure that toys are kept away from your bathroom and kitchen sinks.

Wet wipes, cotton pads, sanitary products and discarded toys are the most common causes of toilet blockages. It’s important to never flush these items as they will cause a build-up of solids, creating a tough clog. Changing to a bar soap from liquid soap can also help as it’s harder for these tiny pieces of plastic to make their way down your drain. This little change can help you avoid a clog and keep your drains healthy for years to come.

Broken Pipes

Pipes in your home are vital to allow water, sewage and waste to move through smoothly. But if these pipes are broken or cracked they can allow dirt and other items to enter into your drainage system and block drains.

The most common cause of blocked drains is hair. From your wife washing her hair in the bathtub to the kids brushing their teeth over the sink – hair can build up fast and become a serious blockage if left for too long.

General wear and tear can also lead to broken drains. Be sure to check the condition of your pipes regularly and look out for cracks, rust and other signs of wear and tear. Gurgling and hissing noises are a big warning sign and should be addressed promptly.

Food Waste

Many people pour leftover food scraps into their kitchen sink drain. This can cause food to swell and build up in pipes, leading to blockages. This is especially problematic if your drains are older.

If your kitchen is equipped with a garbage disposal, this may not be as big of a problem. However, you should still dispose of food waste properly.

Even “flushable” wipes are not good for your pipes. You should always place these items in the trash instead of flushing them down the toilet. You should also avoid putting eggshells, shellfish, and coffee grounds down your drains, as they don’t decompose well. Lastly, make sure to clean your drain guards regularly! They can collect hair, soap scum and other debris. This will help keep your drains clear and prevent them from clogging.