6 Tips to Prevent Blocked Drains
Blocked drains giving you grief?
If you’ve ever dealt with a sink that won’t drain or a toilet that keeps backing up, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. The good news is most blockages can be avoided with a few simple habits at home. Our local plumbers in Newcastle have put together these handy tips to help you keep your drains clear, save money, and avoid those messy emergencies.
1. Pop in a Drain Strainer
One of the easiest ways to stop blockages is by using a drain strainer. These little mesh covers sit on top of your sink or shower drain and catch food scraps, hair, and other nasties before they sneak into your pipes. They’re cheap, easy to find at Bunnings or the local hardware store, and can save you a world of hassle.
Just remember to give them a quick clean regularly to keep water flowing freely.
2. Don’t Tip Cooking Grease Down the Sink
Hot oil and fat might seem harmless when they’re liquid, but once they cool down, they harden and stick to your pipes. Over time, this creates a thick, sludgy mess that traps food scraps and leads to blockages.
Instead, pour leftover cooking grease into an old jar or tin and pop it in the bin once it’s full. Your drains (and your plumber) will thank you for it.
3. Run Cold Water with the Garbage Disposal
Got a garbage disposal installed under the sink? Make sure you run cold water every time you use it. This helps flush scraps through the pipes and stops grease from gumming up the blades.
Hot tip: toss in a few ice cubes every now and then. The ice helps scrape off built-up gunk inside the unit and keeps it running smoother for longer.
4. Flush Your Sink with Boiling Water
Even when you’re careful, tiny bits of food or grease can still sneak into the drain. An easy fix is to pour a kettle of boiling water down your sink once a week. This helps melt away small build-ups before they turn into a bigger problem.
Be careful when handling boiling water pour slowly and safely.
5. Only Flush the Three P’s
Your toilet is only designed to handle three things: pee, poo, and (toilet) paper. Flushing nappies, wipes, pads, or anything else down the loo is a recipe for disaster.
These items don’t break down like toilet paper instead, they swell, snag inside your pipes, and can cause a full-on sewer blockage. And trust us, you don’t want to deal with that mess.
6. Book a Professional Drain Inspection
Not all plumbing problems are visible straight away. Tree roots, cracked pipes, or hidden blockages can build up over time without you knowing. That’s why it’s smart to book a drain inspection every 2–3 years.
At The Plumbing & Electrical Doctor, our licensed plumbers use advanced drain cameras to spot issues early, saving you money on major repairs down the track. Plus, we always provide upfront pricing with no hidden costs, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
At the end of the day, it’s much easier (and cheaper) to prevent blocked drains than to fix them once they’ve clogged up. A few small changes to your daily habits like straining scraps, disposing of oil properly, and scheduling regular checkups can make a huge difference.
Already dealing with a stubborn blockage? Don’t stress. Our expert plumbers are on call 24/7 across Newcastle, the Hunter, and the Central Coast.
Call us today on 131091 or book online and save $50 on your first service (use code WEB-50).
Blocked Drain? Need Help Fast?
Don’t wait for a small blockage to turn into a big headache. Our local plumbers are on call 24/7 in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Central Coast & beyond.
- Upfront Pricing – No Hidden Costs
- Free Drain Inspection With Every Job
- 40+ Years of Trusted Local Service
Call 131091 now or Book Online and get $50 OFF your first service (Code: WEB-50).
Frequently Asked Questions About Blocked Drains
We get it—blocked drains can be a real headache, and sometimes it’s hard to know if you should try a DIY fix or call in the pros. To make life easier, here are answers to a few of the most common questions our customers ask:
What’s the best home remedy for a blocked drain?
A mix of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water can help clear light build-ups. But for stubborn blockages, you’ll want a plumber with the right gear.
Is boiling water safe for all pipes?
Pouring boiling water down the drain works well for dissolving grease in metal pipes, but it’s not recommended for older PVC pipes as the heat may cause damage.
When should I call a plumber instead of fixing it myself?
If you’ve tried a home remedy and the blockage keeps coming back, or you notice bad smells, gurgling, or water backing up, it’s time to call a licensed plumber.
How often should I get my pipes inspected?
We recommend every 2–3 years, especially if your home has older pipes or you’ve had repeated blockages. Regular check-ups can save you a lot of hassle (and money) down the track.
THE DOCTOR GETS IT DONE
