Why Are Your Drains Blocked? A Gold Coast Plumber Explores The Causes

Your drains are a crucial part of your plumbing system, and when they become blocked it can be an inconvenience. But why do drains get blocked in the first place? Gold Coast plumbers, from AJB Plumbing, takes a look at the most common causes of blocked drains.

Tree Roots

Did you know that tree roots can become a major issue for drainage systems? Tree roots are a common cause of blocked drains and pipes in the Gold Coast area, particularly during periods of heavy rain or drought, when trees search for moisture underground. In fact, in their growth and search for moisture, tree roots can often crack drain pipes, and even start to grow down the length of the drain. It’s important to contact a licensed plumber right away if you suspect that tree roots have impacted your plumbing system.

Build-Up Of Grease 

How do you dispose of great, oil, and fat when you cook? Hopefully, not by pouring it down your drains! Grease and fat can easily build up in your pipes, particularly when you pour it down the sink. Over time, these fats can cause blockages that are hard to shift without professional help. To avoid this problem, it is recommended to dispose of fat, oil, and grease in a sealed container in the garbage. While washing dishes, scrape any leftover food scraps into the bin rather than flushing them down the sink. Even though food bits are biodegradable, they can still cause a build-up in your drains.

Flushable Wipes 

It can be tempting to flush wipes down the toilet, especially when you’re in a rush. However, these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper does and can cause blockages that are difficult to clear without professional assistance. To avoid this problem, it is best to throw wet wipes into the rubbish bin rather than flushing them away. To be safe, the only products you should be flushing is human waste and toilet paper!

Toiletries 

Other bathroom items such as cotton buds, tooth floss, tampons and sanitary towels should not be flushed down the toilet either, even if they’re small. Besides potentially blocking your drains, these items can also cause environmental damage if they make their way into waterways. It is important to dispose of them properly to avoid any plumbing problems.

If you have a blocked drain in the Gold Coast area, AJB Plumbing can help. Our experienced plumbers have been helping locals with their plumbing needs for over 40 years and can quickly identify the cause of your blocked drain and provide a solution that is both cost-effective and reliable. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book an appointment.