Knowing when to stop DIY and call a professional could save your home from serious damage.
Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues in Perth homes. In many cases, a slow sink or minor clog can be resolved quickly. But sometimes what looks like a small blockage is actually a warning sign of a deeper sewer or stormwater problem.
Understanding when a blocked drain becomes serious is critical. Acting early can prevent internal flooding, structural damage, and costly repairs. Below are the seven key signs it’s time to stop DIY attempts and call a professional plumber.
1. Multiple Drains Are Backing Up at the Same Time
If your toilet is slow to flush, the shower fills with water, and the kitchen sink is gurgling — all at once — the issue likely isn’t isolated.
This usually indicates a main sewer line blockage rather than a single fixture clog.
Common causes in Perth include:
- Tree root intrusion into ageing pipes
- Grease and solid waste build-up
- Pipe misalignment or collapse
- Debris lodged in the main drain
When multiple fixtures are affected, the blockage sits deeper in the system and requires specialised equipment to diagnose and clear.
2. Water Is Coming Back Up Instead of Draining
A slow drain is inconvenient. Water reversing direction is urgent.
Warning signs include:
- Water rising in the shower when you flush the toilet
- Bubbling or gurgling noises from pipes
- Overflow at outdoor gully traps
Backflow indicates pressure building inside the sewer line. If ignored, it can lead to sewage entering your home, creating health risks and significant clean-up costs.
3. The Blockage Keeps Returning
If you clear a drain and it blocks again within weeks or months, you’re likely dealing with a structural or recurring obstruction.
Typical recurring causes in Perth properties:
- Tree roots penetrating clay or older PVC pipes
- Cracked underground pipework
- Heavy grease accumulation in kitchen lines
- Poor pipe fall or installation issues
Repeated plunging or chemical treatments may temporarily relieve symptoms but won’t resolve the underlying issue. Persistent blockages require professional inspection.
4. You Notice Strong Sewer Odours
Unpleasant smells inside or outside your home are often an early warning sign of drainage problems.
Possible causes include:
- Sewer line blockages
- Damaged pipe sections
- Blocked vent pipes
- Dried or compromised traps
Sewer gases aren’t just unpleasant — prolonged exposure can pose health risks. If odours persist despite cleaning, it’s time for professional assessment.
5. Chemical Drain Cleaners Aren’t Working
Store-bought drain cleaners are widely marketed but rarely effective for serious blockages.
They can:
- Corrode older metal pipes
- Weaken PVC joints
- Push blockages further down the system
- Create heat reactions that damage pipe interiors
If chemical treatments fail, the obstruction likely requires mechanical clearing or high-pressure water jetting performed by a licensed plumber.
6. Drains Overflow After Heavy Rain
Perth’s winter rainfall can expose hidden drainage weaknesses.
If your drains:
- Overflow during storms
- Gurgle during heavy rain
- Cause water pooling in the yard
You may have a partially blocked sewer or stormwater system. Rain increases flow volume, revealing restrictions that weren’t obvious in dry conditions.
Ignoring this can lead to flooding during major weather events.
7. There’s Visible Water Damage Around Your Property
This is one of the most serious warning signs.
Call immediately if you notice:
- Water pooling around internal floor drains
- Damp patches or mould near walls
- Soggy ground or sinkholes in the yard
- Foundation movement linked to excess water
Underground pipe leaks or severe blockages can undermine soil stability and cause structural damage over time.
What a Professional Plumber Does That DIY Can’t
Professional blocked drain services go beyond basic clearing.
A licensed plumber may use:
- CCTV drain cameras to locate the exact obstruction
- High-pressure hydro jetting to fully clean pipe walls
- Root cutting tools for tree intrusion
- Pipe relining to repair damaged sections
- Drain mapping for long-term preventative planning
These methods address the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Our Complete Plumbing Services in Perth
While blocked drains are a common issue, our Perth plumbing team provides a full range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including:
Hot water system repairs and replacements
Leaking tap and burst pipe repairs
Gas fitting and gas leak detection
Bathroom and kitchen plumbing upgrades
Leak detection and pipe location services
Whether it’s an urgent plumbing emergency or routine maintenance, we focus on long-term, reliable solutions to keep your plumbing system operating efficiently.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my blocked drain is an emergency?
It’s an emergency if sewage is backing up, multiple drains are blocked, or water is overflowing inside your home. These signs usually point to a main sewer line blockage that needs urgent attention.
2. Can I fix a main sewer blockage myself?
No. Main sewer blockages require specialised equipment like CCTV drain cameras and high-pressure jetting. DIY tools rarely reach deep obstructions and may worsen the problem.
3. Are tree roots a common cause of blocked drains in Perth?
Yes. Tree roots are a major cause of blocked drains in older Perth homes, especially where clay pipes are installed. Roots enter small cracks and expand inside the pipe.
4. Is hydro jetting safe for residential pipes?
Yes, when carried out by a licensed plumber. Hydro jetting uses controlled high-pressure water to clear grease, debris, and roots without damaging sound pipes.
5. When should I call a plumber for a blocked drain?
Call a plumber if the blockage keeps returning, affects multiple fixtures, causes strong odours, or leads to water backing up. Early action helps prevent costly damage.
Final thoughts
Blocked drains rarely fix themselves. While minor clogs can sometimes be resolved quickly, persistent or severe symptoms often signal a larger drainage issue.
If you notice warning signs like backflow, recurring blockages, or sewage smells, it’s best to act early. Professional inspection and clearing can prevent property damage, health risks, and expensive repairs down the track.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, contact our Perth plumbing teamtoday for fast, reliable assistance. Call now to book an inspection and get your drains flowing properly again.
