Top 7 Causes of Blocked Drains in Melbourne Homes

Few things are more disruptive to a Melbourne household than a blocked drain. Whether it’s the kitchen sink refusing to empty or the shower pooling with water, it’s a problem that stops your day in its tracks. From heritage homes in Fitzroy and Brunswick to new builds in Point Cook and Clyde North, blocked drains Melbourne-wide are a common frustration.

At Fast Direct Plumbing, we specialise in professional drain cleaning services Melbourne homeowners trust to get things flowing again—safely and effectively. Understanding what causes blockages is the first step to prevention, saving you money, stress, and potential property damage.

1. Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)

The number one culprit behind kitchen blockages is grease. When washed down the sink, cooking fats and oils cool and solidify inside pipes, narrowing the passage over time. This sticky residue traps food scraps and creates a stubborn clog.
Prevention tip: Avoid pouring oil down the drain—collect it in a container and dispose of it responsibly.

2. Foreign Objects

Even “flushable” wipes aren’t as safe as they claim. Toilet paper breaks down in water, but wipes, cotton buds, and feminine hygiene products do not. These can accumulate and block main sewer lines.
Prevention tip: Only flush human waste and toilet paper—nothing else.

3. Tree Root Intrusion

Older Melbourne suburbs like Kew, Camberwell, and Ivanhoe have mature trees with extensive roots. These roots naturally seek water and can infiltrate small cracks in underground pipes, growing into thick blockages.
Solution: Schedule regular CCTV drain inspections to detect early signs of intrusion.

4. Hair and Soap Scum

In bathroom drains, hair tangles with soap residue to form sticky blockages. Over time, this reduces water flow and leads to slow drains or foul odours.
Prevention tip: Use a drain strainer and clear it weekly.

5. Corroded or Collapsed Pipes

Pipes in older Melbourne homes may be decades old, often made from galvanised steel or clay. These materials degrade, leading to corrosion, cracks, or collapse.
Solution: A licensed plumber near you can assess and recommend pipe relining or replacement to prevent further issues.

6. Heavy Rainfall and Stormwater Overload

Melbourne’s unpredictable weather often leads to heavy downpours. When stormwater systems are outdated or clogged, they can back up into internal drains.
Prevention tip: Keep gutters and outdoor drains free from leaves and debris.

7. Mineral and Scale Buildup

In areas with hard water, mineral deposits (calcium and magnesium) accumulate inside pipes, restricting flow.
Solution: Periodic descaling or professional hydro-jet cleaning can restore full capacity.

When to Call Fast Direct Plumbing

If DIY methods aren’t solving your drain issue—or you suspect a deeper blockage—call Fast Direct Plumbing, your trusted blocked drain plumber in Melbourne. Our team uses CCTV cameras, electric eels, and high-pressure hydro-jetters to clear blockages fast and prevent future clogs.

👉 Contact us today for expert drain cleaning services Melbourne homeowners rely on, available 24/7 for emergencies.