Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing emergencies we attend across the Sutherland Shire and St George areas. But most blockages don’t happen overnight — there are usually warning signs days or even weeks before a full blockage occurs.
1. Slow Draining Water
If your sink, shower or bathtub is taking longer than usual to drain, it’s a clear sign that something is building up inside the pipe. Hair, soap scum, grease and food waste are the most common culprits in residential properties.
2. Gurgling Sounds
Hearing bubbling or gurgling noises coming from your drains? This happens when air gets trapped in the pipe by the blockage. As water tries to push past, it displaces the air and creates that distinctive gurgling sound.
3. Unpleasant Odours
Bad smells coming from your drains are a telltale sign that organic matter is decomposing inside the pipe. If you notice a persistent sewage smell in your bathroom, kitchen or laundry, don’t ignore it — it will only get worse.
4. Water Backing Up
When water starts coming back up through the drain or appearing in unexpected places (like your shower draining when you flush the toilet), you’ve got a partial blockage that’s close to becoming a full one.
5. Multiple Fixtures Affected
If more than one fixture is draining slowly or making gurgling sounds at the same time, the blockage is likely in your main sewer line rather than an individual drain. This requires professional attention immediately.
What Should You Do?
If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait for a complete blockage. Call EKORP Plumbing on 02 8667 5354 for a fast diagnosis. We use CCTV drain cameras to locate the exact cause and position of blockages, so we can fix the problem efficiently with minimal disruption.
Our $0 call-out fee policy (with completed work) means there’s no reason to delay. Early intervention almost always costs less than an emergency call-out after a full blockage has caused water damage.
