Blocked drains are the #1 plumbing call-out in Caloundra. These simple habits keep your pipes clear.
The #1 Cause of Blocked Drains in Caloundra
In our experience servicing thousands of Caloundra properties, the most common cause of blocked drains is not tree roots or collapsed pipes — it's what homeowners put down the drain themselves. Cooking fat, 'flushable' wipes, hair, and food scraps cause the majority of blockages we attend.
Kitchen Drain Tips
Never pour cooking oil or fat down the sink. Let it cool, pour into a container, and bin it. Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps. Run hot water after using the sink to flush any residual grease. Coffee grounds are surprisingly damaging to drains — bin them instead.
Bathroom Drain Tips
Install hair catchers on shower and bath drains — they cost $3 and save hundreds in callout fees. Never flush wipes, cotton balls, or sanitary items — even those labelled 'flushable.' Only toilet paper should go down the toilet.
Outdoor Drain Maintenance
Caloundra's sandy soil means tree roots frequently seek moisture in drain pipes. Have your drains CCTV inspected every 2–3 years if you have large trees near your home. Keep gutters clear to prevent stormwater overload during our summer storms.
When to Call a Professional
If your drain is slow but not blocked, it's the perfect time for a professional clean — before it becomes a complete blockage and overflow. PumiFlow's high-pressure jetting service starts from $99 and can extend drain life by years.