Simple Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Avoid Costly Plumbing Problems
Blocked sewers can cause bad smells, slow drains, unexpected overflows, and major damage. especially in Perth, where older pipework and tree roots are common.
Below are the most effective ways to prevent blocked drains Perth wide and keep your home’s plumbing system flowing as it should.
1. Avoid Flushing Wipes and Foreign Objects
Even “flushable” wipes don’t break down properly in sewer pipes. When they mix with oils, grease, and debris, they form stubborn blockages that need professional removal.
These clogs start small but quickly compact into a solid mass that restricts water flow, so keeping wipes out of the toilet is one of the easiest ways to protect your plumbing.
Items that commonly cause blockages include:
- Baby wipes – they stay intact inside the pipes and trap other debris as they move along.
- Cleaning wipes – their thick fibres resist breaking down and easily snag inside bends.
- Sanitary items – they absorb water and expand, making them one of the fastest ways to block pipes.
- Paper towels – they’re designed to stay strong when wet, so they don’t break apart like toilet paper
If flushing issues have already started, it may be time to call a licensed plumber Perth for an inspection.
2. Keep Fats, Oils, and Grease Out of the Sink
Pouring oils or food scraps down the sink is a major cause of sewer blockages. As oils harden, they stick to the inside of pipes and trap debris.
Over time this creates a thick layer inside the pipe that gradually narrows the opening, making it harder for wastewater to flow through.
Better options include:
- Scraping plates into the bin – this removes leftover food before it can settle in your sink or drains.
- Letting oils cool before disposing – cooled oils can be thrown away easily without coating your pipes.
- Using a sink strainer – the strainer catches small scraps and prevents them from entering the drain in the first place.
If your kitchen sink is draining slowly, arrange drain cleaning before the issue spreads further into your sewer line.
3. Use Drain Strainers Throughout Your Home
Drain strainers are an inexpensive and highly effective way to stop unwanted debris entering your plumbing.
They act as a simple barrier that catches everyday waste before it can travel deeper into your sewer line.
They help block:
- Hair in showers – hair naturally binds together and creates long, stringy blockages inside bathroom drains.
- Food scraps in kitchens – food particles tend to settle in pipe bends and eventually form solid build-ups.
- Fabric fibres in laundries – tiny fibres from clothes wash down the drain and combine into dense lint balls.
This simple habit prevents long-term sewer issues.
4. Watch for Tree Roots in Older Perth Suburbs
Tree roots are one of the biggest causes of blocked sewers Perth wide especially in areas with older clay or earthenware pipes.
Roots naturally seek moisture and can enter:
- Small cracks – even a thin opening is enough for roots to begin spreading.
- Loose joints – gaps between older pipes are ideal entry points for root systems.
- Damaged pipe sections – roots thrive in areas where the pipe has already weakened or collapsed.
If your property is in suburbs like Fremantle, Mount Lawley, or Subiaco, consider booking a CCTV drain inspection to identify root intrusion early.
5. Fix Slow or Gurgling Drains Immediately
Slow drainage is the earliest warning sign that a blockage is forming. The longer it’s ignored, the higher the risk of complete sewer failure.
Warning signs include:
- Gurgling toilets – the sound indicates that trapped air is struggling to escape through the pipes.
- Water pooling around floor drains – this means wastewater isn’t moving freely through the system.
- Bad smells coming from sinks – odours usually point to waste accumulating somewhere in the line.
If you notice any of these, call emergency plumbing Perth before the blockage becomes severe.
6. Be Careful With Landscaping Around Sewer Lines
Large trees with aggressive root systems can damage sewer pipes. Avoid planting large species directly above your sewer line.
Common problem species include:
- Jacarandas
- Figs
- Bottlebrush
- Paperbarks
If these are already on your property, regular plumbing checks help prevent surprises.
7. Schedule Yearly Preventative Plumbing Maintenance
Annual maintenance helps Perth homeowners stay ahead of sewer issues. A routine check-up can identify:
- Small cracks
- Sediment buildup
- Pipe misalignment
- Early root intrusion
A licensed plumber Perth can advise whether cleaning, repairs, or pipe relining is needed.
Plumbing Services We Offer Across Perth
Perth Local Plumbing & Gas provides fast, reliable, and professional services for homes and businesses, including:
- Sewer and blocked drain clearing
- CCTV drain inspection Perth
- Pipe relining and repairs
- Emergency plumbing Perth (24/7)
- Hot water repairs and installations
- Residential and commercial plumbing
Services Typically Offered by Commercial Plumbers in Perth
A professional commercial plumbing service provides far more than just repairs. Services often include:
- Preventative maintenance plans
- CCTV drain inspections
- Hot water system servicing
- Backflow testing and prevention
- Leak detection and repairs
- Commercial fit-outs and upgrades
FAQs – Commercial Plumbing in Perth Offices
1. Why do blocked sewers happen so often in Perth?
Perth has older clay pipes, sandy soil, and lots of large trees — all of which make sewer lines more prone to cracks, shifting, and root intrusion.
2. Can I clear a sewer blockage myself?
No. Sewer blockages sit deep in the system and need specialised equipment. DIY methods often make the problem worse or damage the pipes.
3. How often should I get my drains inspected?
Once a year is ideal, especially for older homes or properties with established trees. Regular checks help catch issues before they become emergencies.
4. What’s the first sign of a sewer blockage?
Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or bad smells from sinks or outdoor drains are early warning signs that a blockage is forming.
Final Thoughts
Preventing blocked drains Perth homes experience is easier than most people realise — it just takes good habits and knowing the early warning signs.
If you’ve noticed any slow drains or unusual smells, Perth Local Plumbing & Gas is here to help with fast, reliable service anytime.
Call us today or book online for same-day assistance.
