#drain problems

I’m extremely stressed right now, when I really ought to try to get some sleep.

The rain lately really hasn’t helped matters, but this is our patio right now.

This has been a problem for at least a week, with nasty drain water from our kitchen and upstairs’ coming up through the inspection cover thing back there. No clue exactly what might be wrong, but something is obviously blocked up. But, now it’s covering half the patio.

(Which was a wreck even before that, but I really don’t have the spoons to deal with any of the floating debris right now. At least that may drown some of the weeds I have just not been able to deal with this year.)

I’m really not in the best state of mind right at the moment, after finally putting on some boots and dragging waterlogged planters out of the flooded part. My garbage body enjoyed that about as much as you might expect.

Most plumbing and heating problems in West London do not start as emergencies. They begin as small signs—slightly low boiler pressure, slow drainage, minor leaks, or uneven heating. When ignored, these issues often lead to breakdowns that are more expensive and disruptive to fix. Pristine Plumbing and Heating focuses on early detection and proper repair to help avoid these situations.

In many London homes, especially older properties, systems are under constant strain. Boilers work harder during colder months, and ageing pipes are more likely to develop leaks. A boiler running below the recommended pressure of around 1.0–1.5 bar may shut down to protect itself. Blocked drains can slowly worsen until water backs up into sinks or bathrooms. These are common issues that require professional attention before they escalate.

Regular maintenance plays a key role. Routine boiler servicing helps identify worn parts, pressure issues, or potential faults early. This reduces the chance of sudden failure and improves system efficiency. For landlords, it also supports compliance and avoids tenant disruption.

Emergency situations still happen, and quick response is critical. Whether it is a burst pipe, a complete heating failure, or a severe blockage, acting quickly helps limit damage and restore normal conditions.

Pristine Plumbing and Heating provides a complete service—from inspection and diagnosis to repair and system upgrades. The focus is on solving the root cause, not just the visible problem.

If your floor drain gurgles, your basement smells musty, or you’ve seen water pooling near your home after a storm — you’re not alone. Drainage problems in Toronto are more common than most homeowners realize, and they’re a leading cause of sewer backups, flooded basements, and costly water damage every single year.

The culprit? A mix of aging clay pipes, heavy spring rains, tree root invasions, and a citywide infrastructure that’s struggling to keep up. Whether you live in East York, High Park, or North York, Toronto homes face unique drainage challenges — and ignoring the warning signs can lead to major headaches.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most common drain problems Toronto homeowners face, what causes them, and what real solutions work — from hydro-jetting and CCTV camera inspections to sump pump installation and backwater valve systems. We’ll also explain how you could qualify for up to $3,400 in rebates through the Toronto Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program.

Common Drainage Issues in Toronto Homes

Drainage issues might start with a slow-draining sink or a strange gurgling sound, but in many Toronto homes, they end with flooded basements, sewer backups, or thousands of dollars in water damage. The reality is, Toronto’s drainage systems — both inside and outside the home — are often outdated, clogged, or simply not designed to handle today’s water load.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common drainage problems homeowners face in Toronto, and how to spot them before they spiral out of control.

1. Blocked Indoor Drains (Sinks, Showers, Tubs)

Whether it’s your kitchen sink refusing to drain or a shower that leaves you ankle-deep in water, clogged indoor drains are one of the most frequent calls we get. In Toronto homes, especially older ones, buildup from grease, hair, soap scum, and even coffee grounds is a daily enemy.

In some cases, DIY solutions like plungers or drain cleaners might offer short-term relief — but they often miss the deeper clog lodged further down the drainpipe. Left untreated, minor clogs can escalate into complete blockages or even pipe bursts if pressure builds.

2. Sewer Backups

When water starts coming up from your basement floor drain, toilet, or shower — it’s a red flag that your main sewer line may be partially or fully blocked. In Toronto, this often happens during spring thaw, or after a heavy rainstorm when city sewers get overloaded and push wastewater back into your home.

Sewer backups aren’t just disgusting — they’re dangerous, exposing your family to harmful bacteria and pathogens. These problems often stem from root intrusion, collapsed pipes, or poor slope drainage. Many homes in Toronto were built before mandatory backwater valve installation, making them especially vulnerable.

🛠️ Solution: We inspect the sewer using a CCTV drain camera and offer trenchless sewer repair or backwater valve installation if needed.

3. Basement Floor Drain Overflow

Many Toronto homeowners don’t think about their basement floor drain until it’s too late. If it’s clogged or overwhelmed during a storm, it becomes a direct entry point for water to flood into your basement.

This is especially common in homes without a proper sump pump system or a clogged weeping tile. A musty smell, visible puddles, or damp corners in the basement are early signs that your drainage system is underperforming.

🛠️ Solution: We clear the blockage and check for broken lines, then install or service your sump pump to prevent future flooding.

🔧 Service tie-in: 👉 Sump Pump Installation Toronto 👉 Basement Waterproofing

4. Gurgling Drains and Slow Flow

That “blub-blub” sound from your drains isn’t just weird — it’s often a symptom of poor venting or partial blockages in the drain line. In Toronto’s older houses, improper venting or years of buildup inside clay pipes can cause negative air pressure, leading to gurgling toilets, slow sink drains, and foul smells.

This problem typically escalates slowly over time, which is why many homeowners ignore it until things get worse.

🛠️ Solution: We perform a drain camera inspection to locate the exact issue and follow up with drain cleaning or hydro-jetting as needed.

5. Standing Water Around the Property

If you notice water pooling near your foundation, driveway, or in your backyard, it’s a sign that your outdoor drainage system isn’t doing its job. In Toronto, homes often lack proper grading or functional trench drains, which causes surface water to collect and seep into the foundation or basement.

This issue is amplified during spring and early summer, when melting snow and rain saturate the soil. Standing water can also attract pests, cause foundation cracks, and lead to long-term structural damage.

🛠️ Solution: We evaluate outdoor drainage and recommend solutions such as trench drain installation, French drains, or downspout rerouting.

6. Recurring Drain Clogs

If you’ve had the same drain clogged more than once in a short period, there’s likely a deeper issue at play — like pipe damage, root intrusion, or mineral scale buildup inside old cast iron lines. In many Toronto properties, these clogs are a symptom of aging infrastructure rather than just household habits.

Using chemical cleaners repeatedly can corrode your pipes and make things worse.

🛠️ Solution: Schedule a full camera inspection followed by hydro-jetting to restore pipe flow and longevity.

⚠️ Don’t Ignore the Signs

If you’re dealing with any of these drainage problems in your Toronto home — don’t wait for it to turn into a full-blown plumbing emergency. What starts as a slow drain can lead to sewer water in your basement, burst pipes, or even foundation damage.

At Anta Plumbing, we’re Toronto’s go-to experts for everything from minor blockages to full drain system overhauls — with free inspections, 24/7 response, and the latest trenchless technology.

What Causes These Drain Problems in Toronto?

When it comes to drainage problems in Toronto, the causes go beyond the typical hair clogs or grease buildup. Our city’s plumbing infrastructure, climate patterns, and urban layout create a perfect storm of challenges — especially for older homes.

Here are the top reasons why drain and sewer issues are so common in Toronto homes.

1. Old Clay and Cast Iron Drain Pipes

Many homes across Toronto, particularly in neighbourhoods like The Annex, High Park, and East York, were built before 1960. These homes often still rely on clay or cast iron drain lines, which are vulnerable to cracking, corrosion, and collapse over time.

Clay pipes become brittle and shift with soil movement, while cast iron corrodes internally, reducing the flow and eventually leading to complete blockage. We often find layers of rust, mineral buildup, or even pipe fragments during CCTV drain inspections.

🔧 Solution: We recommend trenchless repair or full drain replacement, depending on the damage.

2. Tree Root Intrusion

Toronto is known for its lush, tree-lined streets — but beneath that beauty is a major plumbing headache. Tree roots, especially from large maples or oaks, aggressively seek out moisture and easily break into underground sewer lines through tiny pipe joints or cracks.

Once inside, roots expand and trap debris, causing partial or complete blockages that lead to sewer backups and slow drains. This is one of the most common causes of recurring clogs in older neighbourhoods like Roncesvalles and The Beaches.

🛠️ Solution: We use CCTV inspection to locate root invasions, and hydro-jetting or trenchless pipe bursting to clear or replace affected sections.

3. Toronto’s Heavy Rain and Spring Thaw

Toronto receives its heaviest rainfall in late spring and early summer, right when the frozen ground begins to thaw. This leads to oversaturated soil, clogged storm drains, and increased pressure on both municipal and residential drainage systems.

For homes without backwater valves or sump pumps, this often results in basement flooding or sewage backing up through floor drains.

The city’s aging storm sewer system can’t always handle the volume of water during peak events, which is why many homes in flood-prone areas qualify for the Toronto Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy.

🛠️ Solution: We install sump pumps, backwater valves, and offer full basement waterproofing systems to redirect water away from the home.

4. Poor Drainage Grading Around the Home

Toronto’s older homes often sit on settled foundations where the land slopes toward the house instead of away from it. This allows rainwater or melting snow to pool near the base of the foundation and eventually seep into the basement.

Combine this with blocked gutters or downspouts, and it becomes a recipe for foundation cracks, mould, and chronic basement dampness.

🛠️ Solution: We assess your home’s exterior drainage and can recommend French drains, foundation grading correction, and foundation sealing to stop water before it enters.

5. Lack of Preventive Maintenance

Let’s face it — most homeowners don’t think about their drains until there’s a problem. But in a city like Toronto, where infrastructure is aging and extreme weather is common, preventive maintenance is critical.

Neglected systems quickly build up grease, scale, debris, and roots, causing repeat clogs, foul odours, or worse — a sewer line failure.

🛠️ Solution: Anta Plumbing offers affordable maintenance packages, including annual drain inspections, camera scoping, and hydro-jetting, helping you avoid emergency call-outs.

Drain Solutions We Recommend (What Really Works)

When you’re facing drainage problems in Toronto — whether it’s a slow drain, sewer backup, or standing water in the basement — a quick fix won’t cut it. Pouring a bottle of drain cleaner down the sink might work for a day, but if the underlying issue isn’t addressed, it’ll be back before you know it.

At Anta Plumbing, we’ve been solving drainage problems in Toronto for over 30 years. We don’t guess — we inspect, diagnose, and apply the right solution for the problem, using a combination of proven methods and modern technology.

Here’s what actually works.

1. Drain Snaking for Simple Blockages

For minor clogs caused by hair, soap scum, or food particles, a professional-grade drain snake is often the first line of attack. Unlike store-bought tools, our heavy-duty equipment reaches deeper into your drain lines and breaks through tough clogs without damaging the pipe.

This method works great for kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, and tub blockages — especially in homes with aging pipes where high-pressure solutions might be too aggressive.

2. Hydro Jetting for Heavy Buildup and Grease

In homes with years of buildup — and especially in multi-family properties or restaurants — we often find thick layers of grease, sludge, or scale coating the inside of the drain lines. This can choke your plumbing from the inside, restricting flow and leading to recurring slow drainage.

Hydro jetting solves this by blasting high-pressure water through your pipes, scraping away stubborn debris and flushing it out completely. It’s a powerful, environmentally safe method we use in Toronto homes where regular snaking just isn’t enough.

It’s particularly effective after a CCTV drain inspection, which shows us where the buildup is worst.

3. CCTV Drain Camera Inspections for Accurate Diagnosis

We never dig unless we have to. That’s why every major drain job starts with a CCTV drain camera inspection. We send a small, high-resolution camera into your pipes to identify exactly what’s causing the issue — whether it’s a partial collapse, root intrusion, or buildup.

This allows us to pinpoint the location of the problem and choose the most effective repair method. It also gives you peace of mind — you’ll see the problem for yourself before any work begins.

4. Trenchless Drain Repair and Pipe Replacement

If your pipes are cracked, sagging, or completely broken, we offer trenchless repair solutions that don’t require digging up your yard, driveway, or garden. Using a method called pipe bursting, we insert a new pipe inside the old one, pushing the damaged line outward while seamlessly replacing it.

This method is perfect for tight urban lots, heritage homes, or properties where traditional excavation would cost thousands more and take days longer.

Trenchless drain repair is fast, clean, and long-lasting — and our Toronto team is fully trained in the latest no-dig technologies.

5. Backwater Valve Installation for Sewer Backup Prevention

One of the best ways to protect your home from sewer backups is with a backwater valve. This device allows wastewater to flow out of your home, but slams shut if it tries to flow back in — which happens often during heavy rainstorms in Toronto.

In fact, the City of Toronto offers a subsidy of up to $1,250 to help homeowners cover the cost of installing a backwater valve. We handle both the installation and the paperwork — and our licensed status with the city ensures everything meets code.

6. Sump Pump Systems for Basement Flood Protection

Toronto homes built on low lots or with aging foundations are vulnerable to groundwater intrusion, especially during spring thaw. A sump pump is designed to collect and remove this water before it can flood your basement.

We install and replace sump pumps, test for failures, and provide regular maintenance to ensure your system is ready when you need it most. Many homes qualify for up to $1,750 in city rebates when upgrading their flood protection — and we help make sure you get it.

7. Basement Waterproofing for Long-Term Protection

If you’re constantly fighting dampness or leaks in the basement, chances are your exterior drainage isn’t working properly. We offer both interior and exterior waterproofing solutions, including weeping tile replacement, foundation sealing, and proper grading to divert water away from your home.

Waterproofing not only protects your basement — it protects your foundation, improves air quality, and increases property value.

Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy Program – Are You Eligible?

If you’ve ever dealt with a flooded basement in Toronto, you know how expensive and stressful it can be. Between damaged flooring, ruined furniture, mould, and insurance headaches, cleanup costs can soar into the thousands — and that’s if you catch it early.

But here’s the good news: The City of Toronto offers up to $3,400 in subsidies for homeowners who take proactive steps to protect their properties from basement flooding. The program is called the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy, and it’s available for qualifying homes across the city.

At Anta Plumbing, we not only install approved flood prevention systems — we help homeowners apply for and maximize their subsidy benefits.

Here’s what you need to know.

🏠 What Is the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program?

This subsidy is a financial assistance program offered by the City of Toronto to encourage homeowners to upgrade their private plumbing systems and reduce the risk of sewer backups and basement floods.

The city will cover a portion of the cost for eligible work, including:

Backwater valve installation

Sump pump maintenance or replacement

Foundation drain (weeping tile) disconnection

Depending on the work completed, you may qualify for a subsidy of up to $3,400.

📋 Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the subsidy, you must:

Own a residential property (single-family, duplex, or triplex)

Have a completed plumbing upgrade done by a City of Toronto–licensed plumber (like Anta Plumbing)

Submit the required documents within 1 year of the work being completed

Be up to date on property taxes and not have any active work orders on the property

Important: All installations must meet the City of Toronto Plumbing Code, and a building permit and final inspection are usually required.

💧 Subsidy Breakdown (What You Can Claim)

Eligible WorkMaximum RebateBackwater valveUp to $1,250Sump pump systemUp to $1,750Weeping tile disconnection + sump pumpUp to $400

You can claim up to the actual cost paid, including labour, materials, permit fees, and taxes — as long as all requirements are met and proof is submitted.

🛠️ How Anta Plumbing Helps You Qualify

We’re not just a plumbing service — we help homeowners navigate the entire subsidy process:

Free inspection to assess eligibility

Licensed installation of sump pumps, backwater valves, or drainage upgrades

Proper permitting and compliance with Toronto plumbing codes

Detailed invoices and documentation for your application

Help with filling out the forms and submitting your application on time

Most importantly, we do the work right the first time — so you get peace of mind and your rebate without delays or re-inspections.

📍 Real Homes, Real Savings

We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Toronto — from Scarborough to Bloor West Village — upgrade their flood protection and get approved for the full subsidy amount. If you’re not sure whether your home qualifies, we’ll assess it for free.

Even if you’ve never had a flood before, the city still recommends installing backwater valves and sump pumps as part of your basement flood prevention strategy. It adds value to your home and reduces the risk of catastrophic water damage.

Why Choose Anta Plumbing for Drain Problems in Toronto?

When it comes to drain problems in Toronto, you don’t want just any plumber — you want someone who knows the city’s plumbing inside and out. From the aging clay pipes in East York to the tree-root invasions of Rosedale and the spring floods of Scarborough, drainage issues here follow patterns. And we’ve seen them all.

At Anta Plumbing, we’ve been clearing, repairing, and upgrading drains in Toronto homes for over 30 years. We don’t just show up with a plunger — we arrive fully prepared to solve the problem, no matter how deep it runs.

Here’s why thousands of Toronto homeowners trust us every year.

👷‍♂️ 1. We’re Fully Licensed by the City of Toronto

Not all plumbing companies are created equal — and not all are qualified to perform work that qualifies for city rebates or passes inspection. We are a City of Toronto–licensed plumbing contractor, which means every job we do meets local plumbing codes and is eligible for permits, inspections, and subsidies.

This is especially important for things like backwater valve installations, sump pump upgrades, and trenchless drain repairs, where compliance is mandatory for rebate approval.

🔎 2. We Don’t Guess — We Inspect First

Before we touch a single pipe, we start with a CCTV drain camera inspection. This high-definition camera shows us exactly what’s happening inside your drains — from collapsed pipe sections to tree root blockages to grease clogs — so we can give you a clear diagnosis and solution, not a costly “maybe.”

It also means no digging unless it’s absolutely necessary.

🚚 3. Our Trucks Are Fully Equipped for Any Drain Job

Anta Plumbing doesn’t believe in delays. Our service trucks are stocked with everything needed for drain snaking, hydro-jetting, backwater valve installations, sump pump replacements, and even trenchless sewer line replacement — all on the first visit.

This allows us to solve your problem the same day, whether it’s an urgent sewer backup or routine maintenance.

🛠️ 4. We Use the Latest No-Dig & High-Pressure Equipment

Old-school repairs that dig up your lawn or tear through concrete are often unnecessary. We’re specialists in trenchless technology, which lets us replace or reline your drains without destroying your property.

We also use hydro-jetting machines for deep cleaning and video scoping to map your entire drain system — tools that save time, money, and mess.

💬 5. We’re Transparent, Friendly, and Respect Your Home

Our team believes in treating your home like our own. That means:

Always wearing protective boot covers

Cleaning up after ourselves

Explaining every step of the process

Providing written estimates before any work begins

Offering warranties on our repairs

We believe in clear communication and no-pressure service, which is why much of our business comes from referrals and repeat customers.

🧭 6. We’re Local — and We Know Toronto Neighbourhoods

We don’t just work in Toronto — we live here. We understand the difference between drain problems in a downtown condo and a detached home in North York. We’ve worked with everything from vintage plumbing in The Junction to brand-new systems in midtown developments.

When you call Anta Plumbing, you’re getting a local expert, not a call centre or a fly-by-night crew.

🕐 7. We’re Available 24/7 — Because Drain Problems Don’t Wait

Plumbing problems rarely happen between 9 and 5. That’s why we offer emergency plumbing in Toronto 24/7, including holidays and weekends.

Whether your basement is flooding at 2AM or your toilet won’t flush on a Sunday, we’ll send the first available truck — fully stocked and ready to solve it fast.

📞 Contact Anta Plumbing – Toronto’s Drain Experts

Anta Plumbing – Toronto Office 🧭 364 Munster Ave, Toronto, ON M8Z 3C7 📞 Call Now: 416-231-3331 🕐 Hours: Open 24/7, including holidays 🌐 Website: https://www.antaplumbing.com 📩 Online Booking: Schedule your service today

FAQ: Toronto Drainage Solutions

1. How do I know if I have a serious drainage problem in my Toronto home?

You might not see a full-blown flood, but there are warning signs that your drainage system is failing:

Slow-draining sinks or tubs

Gurgling noises from toilets or floor drains

Unpleasant odours coming from basement drains

Water pooling around your foundation or driveway

Backups after heavy rain or snowmelt

In Toronto, many of these issues are linked to old clay pipes, tree root invasions, or collapsed sewer lines. At Anta Plumbing, we use CCTV drain camera inspections to diagnose these problems without guesswork or digging.

If you’ve noticed these symptoms, it’s best to schedule an inspection before minor issues turn into costly repairs.

2. What causes frequent sewer backups in Toronto homes?

Toronto’s sewer backups are often caused by a mix of:

Tree roots breaking into underground pipes

Collapsed or misaligned clay drain pipes

Heavy rainfall overwhelming the city’s combined storm/sewer system

Lack of a backwater valve, which allows sewage to flow back into your home

Backups typically happen in basements, especially in older homes across East York, High Park, or Scarborough. Installing a backwater valve and maintaining your drains through regular cleaning and inspection is the best way to prevent future backups.

Anta Plumbing is licensed to install backwater valves that qualify for the Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy — and we’ll even help with the paperwork.

3. What’s the difference between snaking and hydro-jetting a drain?

Both are effective tools for clearing clogs, but they work differently:

Drain snaking involves using a cable with a cutting head to dislodge clogs and pull debris back

Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to scrub the inside of pipes, removing grease, scale, roots, and sludge

In most Toronto homes, we start with snaking for minor blockages. If the problem is deeper or recurring — such as grease buildup in older cast iron pipes — we recommend hydro-jetting for a deeper clean that restores full flow and extends pipe life.

We’ll determine the right method after a camera inspection, so you never pay for services you don’t need.

4. How much does it cost to fix a drainage issue in Toronto?

The cost of drain repair depends on the scope of the issue:

Basic snaking starts around $150–$250

CCTV drain camera inspections range from $200–$400

Hydro-jetting may cost $400–$900, depending on line length

Trenchless sewer line repairs start around $2,000+, depending on the size and condition of the pipe

Backwater valve installation (rebate-eligible) averages $1,500–$2,500

We always provide a written quote upfront, with no hidden fees. Plus, if your home qualifies for the City of Toronto rebate, we’ll walk you through the application so you can recover up to $3,400 for flood protection upgrades.

5. Does Anta Plumbing offer 24/7 emergency drain service in Toronto?

Yes — we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all drain and sewer emergencies in Toronto. If your floor drain is backing up, toilet won’t flush, or your basement is flooding, our team is ready to dispatch with the tools and experience to handle the job — fast.

Our trucks are fully stocked for:

Drain snaking and augering

Sewer camera inspections

High-pressure hydro-jetting

Emergency sump pump repairs

Backwater valve failures

Call 416-231-3331 anytime, and we’ll send help. We’re local, licensed, and standing by across all Toronto neighbourhoods.

Conclusion: Stop Drain Problems Before They Drain Your Wallet

If there’s one thing Toronto homeowners can count on, it’s that drain problems never fix themselves. Whether it's a slow-draining sink or a sewer backup after spring rain, small issues often point to bigger problems lurking underground — especially in homes with old clay pipes, tree roots, or no backwater valve protection.

At Anta Plumbing, we’ve been solving drainage issues across Toronto for over 30 years. From CCTV drain inspections and hydro-jetting to sump pump installations and trenchless repairs, we provide the right solution — not a temporary fix.

If you’re tired of guessing what’s wrong with your plumbing, let our licensed team show you exactly what’s happening and fix it for good. No mess. No stress. No hidden fees.

Facing blocked drains and want to know about the cost of hiring a drain plumber? Dive into our cost guide as we've got the breakdown, from call-out fees to hourly charges. Explore the details on the causes, costs, and expert solutions to keep your drains flowing smoothly.

👉Learn More - https://bit.ly/3tyaCOB

Check out new post published on https://www.greenplanetplumbing.com.au/5-most-common-drain-problems/

5 Most Common Drain Problems

Plumbing issues are common not only in households but also in commercial buildings. People constantly use water, some businesses even relying on it to operate,which is why drain problems are a home or business owner’s concern. A simple leak may result in a bigger problem in the future. If you don’t want to be shocked when you receive your utility bill, you should check if you are experiencing plumbing issues at home.

Showers, laundry tubs, sinks, and toilets are connected to a sewerage system under the ground. The pipes are not always visible because some parts of it are in between walls, while some are found under the ground. This is why it is not easy to determine the specific plumbing issue. The only way to find out if you have a problem with your drain system is to observe while you use water in the kitchen and bathroom.

5 of the most common drain problems

If you have been staying in the same building for a few years now, you should check different parts of the building, including pipes, to ensure your plumbing isn’t causing any issues.. Problems related to plumbing are not easy to identify but there are some symptoms that indicate that you need a plumber.

Here is a list of the most common problems in the drain that most households experience:

1.      Stubborn clogs

Whenever you need to use the shower or the bathtub, you cannot avoid the strands of hair that are washed down the drain. This is something that can cause clogging. Even if you are frequently clearing the floor from dirt, you will not be able to totally eliminate the small items that cause clogging problems.

You can regularly clean the drain to avoid clogs. If you still continue to experience the same problem, however, then you are not successful in eliminating the entire clog. In situations like this, the best thing that you can do is to get the help of a plumber. Hire a plumbing expert who uses advanced tools to eliminate clogs completely and solve the problem.

2.      Flooding

Flooding may happen as an effect of clogging. This is one of the worst problems that may happen to your drain. If you notice any signs of flooding, you should call for a plumber right away. This kind of problem should not ignored because it may spread contamination. It is not enough to eliminate the contaminated water; you should address the cause of the flooding.

This type of drainage system issue requires the experience of an expert plumber.

3.      Slow drain

One of the simplest problems that most people choose to ignore is slow-moving drains. This is easy to recognise especially if you know the normal flow of water in your sink, toilet, shower, or bathtub. It may look simple but you should never underestimate the possible seriousness of this problem.

Most of the time, a slow drain is a symptom for a more serious drainage problem. It can be an indication that there are clogs. It can also be due to grease and mineral build-up in the pipes. If you’ve tried eliminating the hair and other small items that may have caused the slow drain but the problem still persists, call a licensed Newcastle plumber to help you identify the real cause of the problem.

4.      Multiple clogs

You know that you have a serious problem with your drains if there are multiple clogs. If more than one of the drains is not working well, there must be a clog in the main drain system. This is a problem that needs professional expertise. A plumber has to reach into the system to eliminate the clog that’s causing problems to the sink or toilet.

5.      Persistent sewer odour

There are many different reasons why there could be a persisting foul odour coming from your drains. Usually, this is caused by the build-up of pollutants in the pipes. If you observe this at home, you need to let a plumber check the drainage system. The foul odour is a sign that there is a major drain problem that needs to be fixed.

What’s causing your clogged drains?

A blocked drain is a problem that should be dealt with immediately. This plumbing issue should be fixed as soon as the problem arises. If you cannot solve the problem even after trying to clear the drain and you do not have the plumbing equipment required, you should get the help of a drain expert!

Knowing the usual causes of blocked drains is a great way to avoid the problem from happening in your home. Here is a list of the most common causes of clogged drains and how you can prevent them:

·       Hair and foreign objects

Hair washing and shaving are just two activities that can block the drain. The hair build-up can be a reason for a bigger problem for the homeowners. If it is combined with some other foreign objects such as soap, tissue paper and other sanitary items, it is likely to cause a serious clog.

You can use some products in the market to prevent hair and other small objects from being washed down the drain hole. You may not completely filter everything but you can at least avoid serious clogging problems.

·       Grease

Food residue is the main contributor of grease and fat. Whenever you dispose of dirty water down the drain, grease may solidify and turn into a sticky obstruction in the pipe wall.

Clogging caused by grease is easy to remove. All you need to do is to drain hot water whenever you are cleaning the sink. You can also use any drain cleaner that can easily melt the grease build up.

·       Leaves and tree roots

If your home is surrounded by trees or other plants, you will definitely experience blocking problems caused by the falling leaves. The moment leaves are washed down the drain, the build-up can cause a problem on the sewer line. Regular cleaning outside can help you avoid this problem.

A more serious problem can be caused by tree roots that may get into the drain. This can lead to the cracking of pipe. There are some chemicals that can be used to kill the tree roots. This way, you can prevent its growth and the damage it can cause on the pipe.

·       Poor quality drain system

The materials used for your pipes and the quality of the workmanship in building the drain system can also be blamed for clogs. Fragile pipes are prone to damage, and this can lead to clogging. The best way to deal with this problem is to employ the best plumber and to get the best materials for your drain system.

Tips to help you unclog drains

There are warning signs that will help you determine if your drains are clogged. The unpleasant odours and the pool of water whenever you take a shower are just two signs that will give you an idea about the condition of your drains and pipes.

Before you experience any problems caused by blocked drains, you have to do something to prevent small clogging issues. Here are some simple tips that can help you unclog drains:

1.      Mixture of baking soda and vinegar

Clogs that are caused by small objects and grease can be solved easily. Just combine a cup of soda and vinegar, and pour it down the affected drain. You can do this during the night after making sure that no one will be using water in the kitchen or the bathroom.

Let the solution sit overnight. On the next day, you can flush it with hot water. If the problem is not solved, then you are dealing with a problem that is not caused by hair, grease, or foreign object build-up. Ask for the help of a Newcastle plumbing company instead.

2.      Boiling water

If you are experiencing drain problems in the kitchen, you do not really have to go far to look for solutions. You can use boiling water to deal with this kind of problem. Just pour the hot water until the drain is cleared and the water is flowing normally. You can do this several times in an interval of few seconds. This is one of the simplest hacks that can save your pipes from grease build-ups.

3.      Sodium Hydroxide

If you have used the boiling water method but you are still experiencing the same clogging issue, you can consider this other option. Sodium Hydroxide can cause chemical burns. With this, you need to use it with caution. You should use rubber gloves and wear something that can help protect your eyes.

Sodium Hydroxide is available in the local hardware store. You can add 3 cups of the product to 2.8 litres of cold water. You can use a mop bucket for this. Just pour the solution into the clogged drain and let it sit for at least 20 minutes. Lastly, pour hot water into the drain.

4.      Dish soap

Dish detergent acts as a lubricant that can help in breaking up the grease build-up in the drain. All you need to do is pour enough amount of dish detergent into the clogged drain. After that, you can reinforce it by pouring hot water before you start plunging.

5.      Salt and baking soda solution

With the mixture of ½ cup of salt and the same amount of baking soda, you can create a solution that can dissolve blockages. To make it more effective, flush it using hot water after letting it sit for 30 minutes. Baking soda is known to be one of the most effective ingredients in eliminating blockages. Adding salt and hot water can add to the strength and effectiveness of the product.

Ask for a plumber’s assistance in cleaning the pipe and drains

There are a lot of plumbing activities that homeowners cannot do on their own. This is because of some tasks that require the equipment and tools that only a professional plumber can use. Instead of doing something for the first time and incurring more damage on the drains and pipes, we recommend you get the help of someone more than familiar with plumbing and sewerage works.

Cleaning the pipes and drains from mineral build-up after many years should be left only to a licensed plumber. If you are not sure about the location of the damage but you observed that there is a drain problem, you can always ask for assistance. Plumbers can do different jobs that are not limited to fixing leaks, repairing faulty pipes, identifying parts that need replacement, and many more.

We recommend homeowners undertake maintenance checks. This can be done annually or as frequent as you need it. Water and drain systems are quite important in maintaining the cleanliness of your home and in ensuring the safety and health of your family. A good drain system will help you eliminate toxic and contaminated water from your kitchen and bathroom.As years pass by, pipes and other essential parts may experience problems caused by outside forces. With this, you have to make sure that you are addressing the small problems to prevent it from escalating.

Contact a licensed plumber in Newcastle today

Green Planet Plumbing provides assistance in repairing, replacing, and maintaining pipes and drains. With our reputation in the plumbing industry, you can expect the best quality of work from our plumbers. The safety and health of your family is our priority.