Common Household Habits Causing Drain Clogs in Adelaide

Blocked drains are a common problem for Adelaide households, with many cases related to common everyday habits. While external factors such as tree roots and aging infrastructure contribute to drainage problems, most clogs are caused by improper household waste disposal and neglect of regular maintenance.

Local plumbers report that the main culprits include cooking grease, food scraps, hair and items that cannot be flushed down. These habits may seem harmless, but they can lead to clogs, unpleasant odors, and costly repairs. Understanding these practices and making small changes can save Adelaide residents significant time and money.

Everyday Habits Behind Clogged Drains

Clogged drains often occur in kitchen sinks, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. Experts say normal household activities can quickly cause serious drainage problems if left unchecked.

Pour grease into the sink

Many homeowners pour hot cooking oil or grease down the sink, thinking it will wash away easily. However, as the grease cools, it hardens and sticks to the pipe walls. Over time, this creates a thick layer that traps food particles and other debris, leading to serious blockages.

Local plumbers in Adelaide estimate that grease buildup is responsible for more than 45% of clogged kitchen drains in the city. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, residents are encouraged to collect it in a disposable container and throw it in the trash. Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can also help dissolve small grease residues.

Rinsing leave-in items

Toilets in Adelaide homes often become clogged due to the flushing of items such as wet wipes, sanitary products and paper towels. Although some wipes are labeled as “flushable,” they do not disintegrate like toilet paper and can cause serious clogs in drain systems.

According to a 2021 study by the Australian Water Association, wet wipes are responsible for 75% of blockages in the country’s sewer systems. To avoid this problem, plumbers recommend flushing only toilet paper and human waste. Having a small trash can in the bathroom for other waste can help prevent clogs.

Food waste in kitchen sinks

Food particles, coffee grounds, and tea leaves often wash down kitchen sinks, causing clogs as they clump together and mix with grease or soap residue.

Adelaide plumbers report that food-related clogs are responsible for almost 30% of kitchen drain problems. Using a sink strainer to catch food debris and cleaning it regularly can greatly reduce the risk of clogs. Composting organic waste is another effective and environmentally friendly alternative.

Hair in the bathroom drain

Hair is one of the main causes of clogged bathroom drains. During the shower, hair is washed down the drain and mixed with soap and shampoo residue, forming sticky clumps that impede the flow of water.

The average person sheds 50–100 hairs every day. Without regular cleaning, it can quickly accumulate in pipes, leading to slow drainage and eventually a complete blockage. Installing a hair trap in your shower drain is a simple and effective way to prevent this problem.

Improper use of garbage disposals

For Adelaide residents who have garbage disposals, improper use can lead to clogs. Items such as fibrous vegetables (like celery), eggshells, and large pieces of food are difficult to dispose of, often leading to clogged pipes.

Plumbers recommend running cold water when using a waste disposal unit to make it easier for waste to flush the system and to prevent fibrous or solid materials from getting into the unit.

Neglect of external drains

External gutters are especially prone to clogs during Adelaide’s wet season. Leaves, dirt and debris often find their way into storm drains, clogging them. Additionally, tree roots seeking water can penetrate underground pipes, causing significant damage.

Tree root intrusion is one of the leading causes of clogged outdoor drains in Adelaide, especially in older homes with clay pipes. Regularly cleaning street drains and trimming trees near your property can help prevent these problems.

Consequences of blocked drains

Clogged drains can develop into serious problems if not addressed promptly. Water that gets into sinks, showers or toilets can cause damage to floors, walls and ceilings. Standing water can emit unpleasant odors, attract pests, and create unsanitary living conditions.

Clogged drain cleaning in Adelaide typically costs between $250 and $800, depending on the severity and location of the problem. However, ignoring minor clogs can lead to burst pipes or severe flooding, costing you thousands in repair costs. Early intervention is critical to prevent such costs.

Preventing blocked drains