Blocked Drains? Here's What You Can (and Can't) Do Before Calling a Plumber

Blocked drains are one of the most common (and frustrating) plumbing issues Aussie homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining kitchen sink, a smelly bathroom drain, or a full-blown backup, knowing what to do and when to call in the proscan save you time, stress, and money.

At Kennedy's Plumbing & Electrical (KPE), we’ve seen it all. This guide will walk you through simple DIY steps you can try, the warning signs that it’s time to pick up the phone, and how our expert local plumbers can help.

What Causes Blocked Drains in Australian Homes?

Blocked drains usually come down to a few culprits:

🚨 Grease and food scraps in kitchen sinks

🚨 Hair and soap scum in bathroom drains

🚨 Tree roots invading underground pipes

🚨 Wet wipes, sanitary products, or excessive toilet paper in toilets

🚨 Foreign objects (kids toys, jewellery, etc.) accidentally washed down drains

Living in areas like the Hawkesbury, Penrith, or the Hills District? You’re not alone – older pipes and large backyard trees often make these suburbs hotspots for recurring drainage issues.

What You Can Try Before Calling a Plumber

Before calling a professional, there are a few safe things you can try at home:

1. Boiling Water Flush

Boil a full kettle and pour it slowly down the drain. This works best for grease buildup in kitchen sinks.

2. Plunger Action

Use a plunger to dislodge light clogs. Make sure to create a proper seal and give it a few solid pumps.

3. Bicarb + Vinegar Mix

Pour half a cup of bicarb soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz for 10-15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

4. Clean the Waste Trap

If it’s your sink that’s blocked, place a bucket underneath, unscrew the trap, and manually clear it.

These DIY fixes can work for minor blockages but if the problem keeps coming back, it’s time to call in the pros.

When to Call the Experts at KPE

If you notice any of the following, don’t wait:

🚫 Gurgling noises from drains or toilets

🚫 Water pooling around outdoor grates

🚫 Foul smells coming from sinks or bathrooms

🚫 Toilets taking forever to flush

🚫 Multiple drains backing up at once

These symptoms usually point to a bigger problem, like a blockage deep in the pipes or damage from tree roots.

Our licensed plumbers use advanced equipment like CCTV drain cameras and high-pressure water jetters to locate and clear the issue quickly – no guesswork involved.

How KPE Can Help

At Kennedy's Plumbing & Electrical, we offer:

✅ 24/7 emergency plumbing for blocked drains

✅ Upfront pricing and no call-out fees during business hours

✅ Friendly, local tradies who turn up on time

✅ Long-term solutions, not just quick fixes

We also recommend regular drain inspections to prevent future blockages and costly repairs. It’s a smart move, especially for older homes in Sydney’s northwest.

Don’t Let a Blocked Drain Ruin Your Day

If you’re dealing with slow drains, recurring clogs, or a full-blown backup, don’t risk further damage.

📞 Call us today on 0482 070 132 for a free quote!

🌐 Visit wearekpe.com.au to book a service online.

Let’s get your drains flowing again – quickly, cleanly, and stress-free.

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