The Top Signs That Indicate You Have a Drain Blockage

Name: Blocked Drain Adelaide
Brand: Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber
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Posted by Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber on 23 Nov 2025

A blocked drain can cause frustration and should be addressed immediately. We have compiled a list with signs to watch for when you are dealing with blocked drains.

Slow Draining

Blockages can occur when your bathtub or sink drains slower than usual. This is the most obvious sign of a blocked drain. It could be caused by something as simple as a buildup of hair, soap, or grease.

Foul Odors

Foul odors coming from drains can indicate that there’s a blockage somewhere in your pipes. This could be due to rotting food in your sink or organic matter in your bathroom’s drain.

Strange Noises

Gurgling noises coming from your pipes is another clear sign that you may have a blocked drain. These sounds are often heard when water drains from toilets and sinks. These noises are often caused by trapped air trying to escape from the blockage.

Water backing up

A blocked drain is when water backs up in other fixtures, such as sinks or toilets, or when you use appliances like washing machines or dishwashers. If left untreated, water backup can lead to further issues such as flooding.

What To Do About A Blockage

We’ve already covered the signs of a blocked drain, but let’s now look at what to do if yours is causing problems.

Use A Plunger To clear small blockages in your pipes, a plunger is a good choice.
Pour Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water down your drain can help break down soap scum and melt away any grease or fats.
Try A Store-Bought Drain Cleaner: Be careful when using these as some can damage pipes over time. Alternatively, you can make your own homemade drain cleaner by mixing baking soda and vinegar.

If none of these solutions work it is time to call a professional plumber. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to locate and effectively remove any blockages in your pipes.

Conclusion

Blocked drains are frustrating and can cost you money. However, catching them early will help prevent future damage. You’ll quickly be able to identify the signs that we have discussed and take appropriate action.

Key Takeaways

Slow draining is a common sign of a blocked drain caused by a buildup of hair, soap or grease.
Foul odors emanating from your drains could indicate blockage caused by organic matter stuck in your pipes.
Gurgling noises coming from your pipes are usually heard when water is draining from sinks or toilets – they may denote trapped air trying desperately to escape through the blockage.
Water backing up into other fixtures indicates that there might be an issue with your drainage system.
Solutions range from using a plunger