Introduction
Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues for homeowners and tenants alike. But when they keep happening over and over again, it’s not just frustrating — it could be a sign of something more serious. At Only Drains, we’ve helped hundreds of Napier residents fix recurring drain issues for good.
In this blog, we’ll break down the top 7 reasons your drains keep blocking — and explain what you can do about it.
1. Grease and Fat Buildup
Grease from cooking oil, butter, and food scraps may go down the sink in liquid form, but it quickly solidifies inside your pipes. Over time, this buildup narrows the pipe and traps other debris.
Fix: Never pour grease down the sink. Instead, wipe pans with paper towels and dispose of the grease in the bin. For heavy buildup, hydro jetting may be required.
2. Hair and Soap Scum in Bathroom Drains
In showers and bathroom sinks, hair binds with soap and grime, creating stubborn clogs. These blockages often build up slowly, causing water to drain slower over time.
Fix: Use a drain strainer to catch hair. If it’s already blocked, our team can clear it with safe mechanical tools and provide advice to prevent it in future.
3. Tree Root Intrusion
Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture, making underground drain pipes an ideal target. Once they enter through small cracks or joints, they grow and block the pipe internally.
Fix: Professional root cutting is essential. Our non-invasive equipment removes roots and restores full flow without digging up your garden.
4. Foreign Objects Flushed Down Toilets
Wet wipes, paper towels, sanitary products, and even kids’ toys can easily block toilet drains. Unlike toilet paper, these don’t break down in water.
Fix: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. For stubborn blockages, call our technicians — we’ll clear it without damaging the pipes.
5. Collapsed or Damaged Pipes
Older clay or concrete pipes can crack or collapse due to age, soil movement, or root pressure. This causes ongoing drainage issues that won’t be fixed by just unblocking.
Fix: A CCTV inspection will identify structural issues. We offer pipe relining or replacement solutions depending on the condition.
6. Poor Drainage Design or DIY Plumbing
Improper pipe slope, narrow diameters, or poorly connected joints can cause slow flow and frequent backups. DIY alterations may not comply with drainage best practices.
Fix: We can assess the layout and recommend improvements or corrections that meet code and ensure long-term drainage performance.
7. Build-Up of Scale or Silt in Stormwater Drains
Over time, stormwater drains can collect dirt, leaves, and minerals, creating a thick sediment layer. This is especially common in gully traps and downpipes.
Fix: Our hydro jetting service blasts through silt and clears pipe walls fully — ideal for long-term stormwater maintenance.
Final Thoughts
If your drains keep blocking, don’t just fix the symptom — find and solve the root cause. At Only Drains, we use the latest tools, including CCTV cameras, hydro jetters, and root cutters, to diagnose and resolve issues the right way.Need help today?
📞 Call us