5 Surprising Things That Might Be Causing Blockages in Your Drains

Drain blockages are a common household nuisance, but many homeowners might be surprised to learn that it's not always the usual suspects causing the issue. While food scraps, hair, and grease are often the main culprits, a range of unexpected things can also sneak into your pipes and cause trouble. A lot of these items are harmless in appearance, too, yet they can cause significant damage over time.



To that end, this article will explore some of the lesser-known causes of drain blockages so that you can recognise and deal with them before they lead to costly plumbing issues.

Rust

Rust may not immediately come to mind when considering drain blockages, but if left unaddressed, it can become a significant issue for your plumbing system. When pipes made from materials like iron or steel begin to corrode, they start accumulating rust and mineral deposits inside. This gradual build-up can make the pipes narrower, restricting water flow and making it harder for waste to pass through. As the blockage worsens, water drainage slows down and the pipes become more susceptible to further damage.

If your home has iron or steel pipes, you can periodically clean them using a vinegar solution to dissolve smaller rust particles. Installing a water softener can also help combat the effects of hard water. This fixture reduces the concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium in your water, which can help slow down the build-up of rust and debris inside the pipes.

Having your plumbing systems regularly inspected by professionals is another key step in maintaining your plumbing. Expert plumbers Dunedin citizens trust can detect early signs of rust and corrosion, preventing the issue from worsening. In severe cases, professional plumbers can also replace the pipes with more modern materials like PVC, which don’t rust and better resist corrosion. Mains Plumbers offers reliable drainlaying services in Dunedin and the greater Otago region, so you can count on us to ensure your plumbing system is durable, efficient, and built to last.

Coffee Grounds

It’s easy to think that washing away the remnants of your morning brew is harmless, especially when you see the tiny bits. However, coffee grounds don’t dissolve in water. Instead, they clump together and create a dense paste that sticks to the inside of your pipes. What makes coffee grounds particularly troublesome is their texture. Unlike liquids or easily breakable materials, these coarse particles tend to stick to the sides of pipes. They tend to accumulate particularly in places where water flow is slower, such as pipe joints or bends, where the flow is naturally restricted. Once coffee grounds start to accumulate, they form a solid mass that can lead to slow drainage or even complete blockages, requiring professional intervention to clear.

To avoid blockages caused by coffee grounds, the most effective solution is to never wash them down the sink. Instead, dispose of them in the rubbish or compost bin. Using a sink strainer can also help catch any stray ground that may accidentally make its way down the drain. If you’re already experiencing a build-up of coffee grounds, try flushing your pipes with boiling water to help dislodge the clog. For more persistent blockages, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help break down the build-up and restore your pipes to normal function.

Chalky Cleaning Products

Some cleaning products, particularly those with high calcium content, can silently contribute to blockages in your plumbing system over time. These cleaners leave behind a chalky residue that’s difficult to wash off and accumulates inside the pipes, slowly building up and narrowing the path for water flow. Common cleaning products that contain calcium are bathroom cleaners, descalers, and powdered detergents. 

To prevent pipe blockages, choose non-calcium-based cleaners or opt for eco-friendly alternatives that are gentle on both your plumbing and the environment. Additionally, regular maintenance can help break down minor build-up and keep your pipes clear.

Flushable Sanitary Products

It may come as a surprise, but flushable sanitary products, like wipes, nappies, and feminine hygiene items, are one of the leading causes of drain blockages in many households. Despite being marketed as “flushable,” these products don’t break down in water as toilet paper does. Instead, they retain their structure and can clump together inside pipes, creating stubborn blockages. While some products are designed to be flushed away for convenience, the reality is that they don’t decompose and can cause significant plumbing issues, especially in older homes with narrow or more complex piping systems. Thus, it's best to dispose of these “flushable” items in the bin instead of flushing them. To help minimise the risk of clogs, educate everyone in your household about proper disposal.

Tree Roots

Tree roots naturally seek out water. If your pipes have small cracks or leaks, the moisture can attract tree roots that may eventually infiltrate your plumbing. Once tree roots have invaded your pipes, they can cause severe blockages and even complete obstructions. In addition to blocking the flow of water, tree roots can also damage the structural integrity of the pipes, which results in costly repairs or even complete replacement.

If your pipes run near trees with aggressive root systems, consider transferring the trees and replacing them with ones that are less likely to invade underground pipes. Another helpful measure is to install root barriers, which can prevent tree roots from growing toward your pipes. If tree roots have already entered your plumbing, you need to seek professional help ASAP to remove them and repair any damage done to the pipes.

Preventing drain blockages often comes down to being mindful of what goes down your pipes. When you become familiar with items that can cause clogs—even the unexpected ones—you can take proactive steps to maintain your plumbing.

If you’re looking for qualified plumbers who can tackle blockages and keep your pipes in top condition, contact Mains Plumbers today. Our team is experienced and fully equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Give us a call at 03-488-6000 or 027-436-6058 and our customer service representatives will be ready to assist you. Our emergency plumbing services are available 24/7.