Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners experience. While many of these issues can be prevented by practicing good habits, some require professional help to get back on track. 

From children’s toys to sanitary products, electronic waste and more, there is a wide variety of objects that can block your drains. Learn more about these issues and how you can prevent them in the future. 

Damage to Pipes 

A drain that is blocked will not only slow down water flow and cause a stink, it could also cause damage to your pipes. This is because when water and waste are trapped in the pipe, it can start to corrode and break down the material. If you need help with a blocked drain a plumber in Melbourne has the experience and knowledge to help you without damaging your plumbing system. 

Over time, this can lead to a hole in the pipe which can cause wastewater to leak out into the ground. This can then seep into your home's foundation and cause damage which can be expensive to fix. 

If you have a blocked drain, you should take some steps to try and prevent it from happening again. Things you can do include using natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar which can help to clear minor blockages. You can also use commercial chemical products which can be found at most hardware stores to deal with more serious blockages. You should also avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and waste in your drains. This includes wipes, sanitary items and even dental floss as these can clog your drains. 

Water Damage to Your Home 

When water and other materials are unable to flow through the drains, it will start backing up into your home. This can cause flooded floors, warped floorboards and damaged drywall. It also creates an ideal environment for mold growth, which can lead to health issues for the occupants of the home. 

Food, hair, waste and gunk can all go down the drains, but if they clog, these substances will accumulate inside the pipes and create bacteria. This will give off a bad smell, and it could also attract pests. Mosquitoes are particularly attracted to clogged drains, as they like to lay their eggs in the stagnant water. Other common pests include cockroaches, drain flies and phorid flies. 

The best way to prevent drain blockages is to take preventative measures. Taking regular hot showers, not throwing things down the drain and using natural cleaners can help keep your drains clear. However, if you do encounter a blocked drain, don’t try to fix it on your own. Calling a plumber right away will save you money and stress in the long run. 

Health Issues

Blocked drains often occur because people flush things down the toilet that they shouldn’t. This can include everything from food scraps to baby wipes and more. In addition, blockages can be caused by a build-up of hair and other gunk in the drains. If you have a blocked drain, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage and other health issues. 

The waste and bacteria that are trapped in your drains can spread diseases and germs when they can’t be washed away. This contaminated water can cause diarrhea, respiratory infections, and even hepatitis A and typhoid fever. 

In addition, a clogged drain can also attract pests such as flies and gnats that can be dangerous to your family’s health. These pests love to breed in standing water and can be a major nuisance in your home. They can also contribute to mold and mildew growth, which can lead to severe health issues. 

Damage to Your Foundation 

While it might be tempting to try to fix a blocked drain yourself, it can quickly turn into a far bigger issue. Aside from the obvious problems of backed-up sinks and foul odors, drain line leaks can damage a foundation and cause structural issues. 

Leaking drain lines can soak the soil surrounding a structure, causing it to swell and shift. This can lead to foundation cracking, settlement and even collapse in severe cases. 

The first sign of a blockage is water pooling in your yard or backyard. If this occurs, it’s time to call in the experts. While you can use commercially available cleaners and boiling water to help clear minor clogs, severe blockages will require professional help. A plumber will be able to assess the situation and recommend the right course of action. They’ll also have the equipment and skills to handle a variety of blockages, including tree roots, sewage backups and mineral build-up.