10 Common Causes of Blocked Drains in Lake Macquarie.

Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues for homes and businesses in Lake Macquarie. While they may start as a minor inconvenience, if left untreated, they can lead to flooding, bad odours, property damage, and costly repairs.

At LMN Plumbing, we’ve helped countless locals get their drains flowing again. Here are the 10 most common causes of blocked drains we see in Lake Macquarie—plus tips on how to avoid them.

1. Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are one of the biggest culprits behind blocked drains in Lake Macquarie, especially in older properties with clay pipes. Roots seek out moisture and grow into cracks, causing major blockages or even pipe collapse.

2. Fat, Oil & Grease Build-Up

Pouring cooking oil or grease down the sink may seem harmless, but once it cools, it solidifies and sticks to your pipes. Over time, this creates a sticky mass that traps food scraps and causes severe clogs.

3. Hair Build-Up

Hair mixed with soap and shampoo can easily clog bathroom drains. It collects in U-bends and shower wastes, restricting flow and leading to slow-draining water.

4. “Flushable” Wipes & Hygiene Products

Despite the label, “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. When combined with sanitary products, cotton buds, and paper towels, they can block sewer lines and cause messy overflows.

5. Food Scraps

Dishwashers and kitchen sinks often carry food scraps down the pipes. Even small bits of rice, pasta, and coffee grounds can build up and form stubborn blockages.

6. Soap Scum

Traditional soaps can leave behind a residue that combines with minerals in water, creating a hard, chalky build-up. Over time, this narrows pipes and slows drainage.

7. Foreign Objects

Children’s toys, toothbrushes, or jewellery accidentally flushed or dropped down drains are a surprisingly common cause of plumbing call-outs. These items often get lodged in bends or traps.

8. Broken or Collapsed Pipes

Older or poorly installed pipes can crack, sag, or collapse. This stops water from flowing freely and often requires CCTV inspections and pipe replacement to fix.

9. Poor Drain Installation

Drains that are incorrectly installed may have uneven gradients, sharp bends, or poor alignment. This encourages water pooling and recurring blockages.

10. Heavy Rain & Stormwater Overload

During heavy storms, stormwater drains can become overloaded with leaves, dirt, and debris. This can cause flooding in yards, driveways, and even garages.

How LMN Plumbing Fixes Blocked Drains

We don’t just clear blockages—we find the cause and fix it properly. Our services include:

• ✅ CCTV Drain Inspections – Pinpointing the exact issue inside your pipes

• ✅ High-Pressure Jet Blasting – Clearing grease, roots, and debris safely

• ✅ Pipe Repairs & Replacement – Long-term solutions for cracked or collapsed pipes

• ✅ Preventative Maintenance – Stopping blockages before they start

Need a Blocked Drain Plumber in Lake Macquarie?

Don’t let a small blockage turn into a major plumbing emergency. If you’re noticing slow drains, gurgling noises, or bad smells—it’s time to act.

📞 Call LMN Plumbing on 0431 558 440

LMN Plumbing – keeping Lake Macquarie drains clear, safe, and reliable.