Blocked drains are a common household issue that many of us encounter from time to time. Whether it’s a sink that’s draining slowly, a shower that won’t drain at all, or a toilet that seems to be constantly clogging, most of us have tried some form of DIY fix—whether it’s a plunger, a store-bought drain cleaner, or even calling a plumber as a last resort. However, what you might not realise is that a blocked drain can often be more than just an annoying inconvenience; it could be a sign of a much larger and potentially expensive problem with your plumbing system.
In this blog, we’ll explore why a blocked drain could be more than what meets the eye and why it’s essential to call a professional plumber to properly diagnose and resolve the issue before it escalates.
1. Blocked Drains Can Indicate Deeper Plumbing Issues
At first glance, a blocked drain might seem like a simple case of hair, soap scum, or food particles building up in your pipes. However, persistent or recurring blockages can often point to more serious issues lurking deeper in your plumbing system.
Common causes of deeper plumbing problems include:
- Tree Root Infiltration: In older homes or areas with large trees, tree roots can penetrate your pipes and grow into the system, causing serious blockages. These roots tend to grow in search of water and can slowly block your pipes over time, leading to significant damage.
- Pipe Corrosion: Older pipes, particularly those made from metal, can corrode over time, creating narrow spaces inside the pipes where debris and waste can easily accumulate, leading to blockages.
- Broken or Collapsed Pipes: If a pipe has broken or collapsed, it can obstruct the flow of water and cause persistent clogs. This is often caused by external pressure, ground movement, or poor pipe installation.
- Sewer Line Issues: Blockages in your main sewer line can lead to issues that affect all the drains in your home. If multiple drains are clogged at once or if you notice sewage backups, the problem might be in your sewer line rather than individual drain pipes.
In all of these cases, a simple plunger or drain cleaner won’t be enough to fix the problem. It’s crucial to get a professional plumber to assess the situation and determine the root cause of the blockage before it worsens.
2. Risk of Further Damage to Your Plumbing System
Ignoring a blocked drain, or trying to fix it yourself with improper tools or techniques, can cause even more harm to your plumbing system. While a DIY approach might clear the immediate blockage, it often only provides temporary relief.
For example, using harsh chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes, especially if used frequently. The chemicals in these cleaners can erode and weaken pipes over time, leading to leaks and even burst pipes in some cases. Even using a plunger or drain snake improperly can cause pipes to crack or burst if too much force is applied.
Moreover, if you leave the problem unresolved, the pressure from the blockage can lead to a backup in your pipes, which can cause serious water damage to your home. Flooded bathrooms or kitchens and waterlogged carpets are not only costly to repair but can also result in mould growth and other health hazards.
3. Health Risks Associated with Blocked Drains
Blocked drains don’t just affect your plumbing system—they can also pose serious health risks to you and your family. When waste and water are unable to flow freely through your pipes, it can result in:
- Foul Odours: Standing water and rotting organic matter in blocked drains often lead to unpleasant smells that can permeate your home. These odours can be a health hazard, especially if they’re caused by bacteria, mould, or decaying organic matter.
- Bacterial Growth: Stagnant water in a blocked drain is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and other harmful pathogens. These bacteria can spread through the air, contaminating surfaces and causing health problems such as gastrointestinal infections, skin irritations, and respiratory issues.
- Sewage Backups: If the blockage is severe enough to cause a sewage backup, the risks to your health are even greater. Sewage water contains harmful pathogens and viruses that can cause serious illness if they come into contact with your skin or are inhaled.
If you notice foul smells or a blockage that persists despite DIY attempts to fix it, don’t take chances—call a professional plumber right away to avoid these health risks.
4. The Cost of Delaying Professional Help
While it might be tempting to try and resolve a blocked drain on your own, delaying professional help can often end up being more expensive. The longer you leave a drainage issue unresolved, the more likely it is that the blockage will worsen and cause additional damage to your plumbing system. This can lead to:
- Increased Repair Costs: What might have been a simple fix can turn into a costly repair if the issue is left unchecked. For example, tree roots that invade your pipes might not just cause blockages but can eventually damage the pipes to the point where they need to be replaced.
- Water Damage: A blocked drain that causes flooding or sewage backups can result in significant water damage to your home. Water damage can lead to costly repairs, including replacing carpets, repairing drywall, and replacing furniture or appliances.
- Higher Water Bills: If your plumbing system is clogged or compromised, it can cause a reduction in water flow or leaks, leading to higher water bills. Fixing the issue early can save you money in the long run.
5. Professional Drain Cleaning Services Are the Best Solution
A professional plumber will have the right tools and expertise to properly diagnose and resolve your blocked drain issue. At Drain Divers, we use advanced technology like CCTV drain cameras to inspect your pipes and locate the cause of the blockage. We also use hydro-jetting technology, which clears blockages using high-pressure water without damaging your pipes.
Our team can also provide advice on maintaining your plumbing system to prevent future blockages, saving you time, money, and hassle.
Call Drain Divers for Expert Drain Cleaning
If you have a blocked drain, don’t wait until it turns into a bigger, more expensive problem. At Drain Divers, we offer professional, reliable, and fast drain cleaning services across Perth. Our expert plumbers are ready to handle any type of blockage, big or small, and ensure your plumbing system is in top condition.
Don’t let a blocked drain become a bigger problem than you think. Call Drain Divers today and let our experts take care of the issue before it escalates.
