A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our exploration into the top 10 causes of blocked sewers in Melbourne. As we dive deep into the world of plumbing, we'll shed light on why this important piece of infrastructure can malfunction. Understanding these causes can help us in maintaining cleaner sewers and a healthier environment.

"The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." - John F. Kennedy

This quote, though not directly about plumbing, perfectly encapsulates the proactive approach we need to adopt to keep our sewers running smoothly. Hence, what are the most common culprits that Melbourne residents should be aware of when it comes to sewer blockages?

In this article, we will be detailing the top ten causes, listed in no particular order, of blocked sewers in the iconic city of Melbourne. Some of them might be expected, while a few might surprise you. Each entry will include a brief description of the issue, along with practical tips to avoid the same. So, let's dive in and learn together.

1. Flushing Non-Degradable Materials

One of the most prevalent causes of sewer blockages in Melbourne is the indiscriminate flushing of non-degradable items down the toilet. Items such as wipes, pads, tampons, diapers, plastic bags often find their way into the sewage system.

Practical Tip: Adopt a 'Toilet isn't a trash can' mantra. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down. Dispose of non-degradable waste in trash cans or recycle them appropriately.

2. Dumping Grease Down The Sink

washing fat and grease down the kitchen sink drain

Another enemy of the sewage system is grease. When you wash grease, fats, and oils down the kitchen drain, they solidify and make a sticky mess within the pipes causing significant blockages.

Practical Tip: Instead of washing grease down the sink, it’s best to collect it in a can or jar and dispose of it in your regular garbage. .

3. Tree Root Invasion

Determined tree and plant roots can damage and invade sewer lines, causing catastrophic obstructions. Roots are drawn towards the moisture and nutrients in sewer pipes, leading them to grow and eventually penetrate the pipes.

Practical Tip: Plant trees and large shrubs at least 10 feet away from sewer lines to prevent root intrusion.

4. Heavy Rain and Storms

With Melbourne's erratic weather, heavy rain and severe storms often overwhelm the sewer systems causing overflows. Extreme surges in water flow can restrict the regular functionality of the sewer system and cause backflows in homes.

Practical Tip: Install a sewer backup valve at your home to prevent sewer water from flooding back into your house during heavy rainfalls.

5. Incorrectly Installed or Damaged Pipes

Poorly installed, damaged, or collapsed pipes can significantly contribute to sewer blockages. It's imperative that pipes are correctly installed and routinely maintained to ensure smooth operation.

Practical Tip: Seek the help of a professional plumber to ensure your pipes are correctly installed and well maintained.

Let's take a quick look at the mentioned first five causes in the table below:

Let's unwrap the other five culprits behind Melbourne's blocked sewers!

6. Poor Waste Disposal Habits

Just like non-degradable materials, solid wastes also stand among the top causes of sewer blockage in Melbourne. Thoughtlessly discarding fruit peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, or household garbage into the sink has led to many a dented sewer. This habit turns even more damaging when combined with fats and grease which solidify and clamp onto the waste, causing a stubborn clog.

What to do? Think twice before you toss anything into the sink. Try composting organic waste or binning it, instead.

7. Outdoor Debris

autumn leaves that could end up in your drains

Outdoor elements like leaves, twigs, mud, and other miscellanea often find their way into sewers, particularly in the autumn season. Over time, they accumulate and obstruct sewage flow.

How to prevent this? Make sure you clean your outdoors regularly and install grate seals over your outdoor drains.

8. Hair and Soap Scum

Ever wondered where the hair you lose during a bath or the slippery layer of soap accumulating on the bathroom floor ends up? Right in your sewage line, causing blockages and backups. When they bind together, hair and soap scum create one messy, hard-to-dislodge clog.

Bottom line? Brush your hair before showering to reduce hair loss, and regularly use drain cleaners to dissolve soap build-up.

9. Rodents and Pests

Rodents and pests might sound like an issue for pest control, but truth be told, they also have a role in sewer blockage. Rats, for instance, can nibble on pipes causing damage and blockage. Insects and bugs can build nests, obstructing the free flow of wastewater.

Remedy? Regular pest inspections and prompt actions can keep this issue at bay.

10. Aging Infrastructure

Lastly, get involved in local and national policies about water conservation. Public support can greatly influence decision-making in water management. Your voice matters in enforcing laws and regulations that protect water and biodiversity

What's the solution? With regular inspections and timely replacement, you can certainly prolong the life of your sewage system.

Now that you're armed with knowledge, adopt the correct habits to keep your sewers free-flowing and your headaches to a minimum!