Common Causes of Blocked Drains in NZ

Understanding the common culprits behind blocked drains is crucial for homeowners to prevent and address these issues effectively. From the bathroom to the kitchen, various substances can cause blockages, leading to inefficient drainage and potential plumbing disasters. This article explores these common causes and provides advice on how to deal with them.

Hair

Hair is a primary cause of shower and bathtub drain blockages. It binds with soap scum and other debris, creating clogs.

Solution: Use a drain guard to catch hair, and regularly remove accumulated hair from drains.

Grease and Fat

Grease, oils, and fats from cooking can solidify inside kitchen drains, causing significant blockages.

Solution: Never pour grease down the drain. Instead, dispose of it in the trash and use a grease-fighting dish soap to help minimise buildup.

Food Waste

Certain types of food waste, like coffee grounds and eggshells, are particularly problematic for drains.

Solution: Compost food waste when possible and use sink strainers to catch particles.

Foreign Objects

Small objects can accidentally fall into drains, leading to blockages. In toilets, flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper can cause issues.

Solution: Be mindful of what goes down your drains and toilets. Install childproof locks on toilet lids in homes with young children.

Mineral Buildup

In areas with hard water, minerals can accumulate inside pipes, narrowing the passage for water to flow through.

Solution: Install a water softener to minimise mineral buildup. For existing buildup, a descaling agent or professional plumbing service may be required.

Tree Roots

Tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines, causing blockages. They're attracted to the moisture and nutrients in sewer pipes.

Solution: Regularly inspect the landscape around your sewer lines. If roots are a problem, a professional can remove them and repair any damage.

Toiletries

Products like paper towels, sanitary products, and wet wipes, even those labelled as flushable, can clog drains.

Solution: Dispose of these items in the trash, not the toilet. Educate all household members about what can and cannot be flushed.

Preventing and Addressing Blockages

Prevention is key to maintaining clear drains. Regular cleaning, mindful disposal practices, and the use of drain guards can significantly reduce the risk of blockages. For existing clogs, a plunger, plumber's snake, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can offer a DIY solution. However, for persistent or severe blockages, professional assistance is recommended to avoid further damage to your plumbing system.

Understanding the common causes of drain blockages empowers homeowners to take proactive steps in prevention and ensures efficient, timely solutions are applied when issues arise. Keeping drains clear not only maintains the functionality of your home’s plumbing system but also prevents the inconvenience and potential costs associated with plumbing repairs.