Blocked Drain Services
We work across Adelaide Hills, the Eastern Suburbs, and the Upper South East, SA.
Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues faced by homeowners and businesses. What often starts as a slow-draining sink or a gurgling sound can quickly turn into unpleasant smells, overflowing drains, or wastewater backing up into the property if left untreated. At APM Plumbing, we provide prompt and reliable blocked drain services across Adelaide Hills and surrounding areas. As a family owned and operated business, we focus on safely clearing blockages, identifying the cause, and helping prevent the problem from returning.
Signs You May Have a Blocked Drain
Blocked drains do not always happen suddenly. In many cases, there are warning signs before the blockage becomes severe. Common signs include:
Gurgling or bubbling sounds from drains
Slow-draining sinks, showers, or floor wastes
Unpleasant odours coming from inside or outside the property
Toilets that are slow to flush or frequently block
Water backing up into showers, basins, or outside drains
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to have the issue addressed early before it leads to further plumbing damage or health risks.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
Drain blockages can develop for many different reasons depending on the age of the plumbing system, the type of property, and what enters the drains over time. Common causes include:
Tree roots growing into underground pipes
Grease, fat, and food waste build-up in kitchen drains
Hair, soap residue, and bathroom products
Non-flushable items such as wipes, paper towels, and sanitary products
Broken, collapsed, or misaligned pipes
In properties with septic systems, blocked drains may also indicate issues within the septic tank or surrounding absorption area.
Drains and Areas We Clear
We clear blockages across a wide range of residential and light commercial drainage systems, including:
Kitchen and bathroom sinks
Showers and floor waste drains
Toilets
Sewer and main drain lines
External drains and overflow relief gullies
No matter where the blockage occurs, we have the experience to locate the issue and clear it safely.
How We Clear Blocked Drains
We use professional drain clearing methods designed to remove blockages effectively while minimising unnecessary disruption to your plumbing. This may involve specialised drain clearing equipment and diagnostic tools to locate the blockage and identify whether there is an underlying issue affecting pipe performance. Where needed, we can also assess pipe condition and advise if repairs or longer-term solutions are required to reduce the risk of repeat blockages.
Blocked Drains and Septic Systems
For homes connected to septic systems, blocked drains can sometimes be an early sign of a larger drainage problem. Because wastewater movement relies on both the internal plumbing and septic system functioning correctly, a blockage may indicate:
Septic tank overload
Drainage line restrictions
Absorption area issues
We have extensive experience working with septic tanks and drainage systems and can help determine whether the issue is an isolated blockage or part of a broader septic concern.
When to Call a Plumber
If you are dealing with repeated blockages, sewage smells, water backing up, or multiple drains blocking at once, professional assistance is important. Attempting DIY fixes can sometimes push the blockage further into the system or damage pipework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a blocked drain cause bad smells?
Yes, trapped waste and stagnant water often create unpleasant odours.
Are recurring blocked drains a sign of a bigger problem?
Yes, repeated blockages can indicate pipe damage, root intrusion, or drainage issues.
Can tree roots block drains?
Yes, roots are a common cause of underground pipe blockages.
Should I use chemical drain cleaners?
They can sometimes damage pipes and may not remove the actual cause of the blockage.
Can blocked drains affect septic systems?
Yes, drainage problems can sometimes indicate septic system issues.
