What Causes Blocked Drains?
Slow draining water. Gurgling pipes. Bad smells. If your drains aren't flowing properly, something is building up inside. Here are the most common causes we see across Auckland and what you can do about it.
We provide fast and reliable residential & commercial drain unblocking services across Auckland. Whether it's a minor clog or a major blockage, our expert team is ready to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently saving you time, stress, and money.
Storm Water Drains
Sewer Drains
Gulley Traps
Toilets
Showers
And more!
Why is my drain blocked?
Most blocked drains don't happen overnight. They build up gradually until one day the water stops flowing. Understanding what causes blockages helps you spot the early signs and avoid a bigger problem down the line.
Auckland's mix of older clay pipes in established suburbs like Remuera and Ponsonby, newer plastic systems in developing areas and mature trees right across the city means we see the full range of drainage issues. Here are the most common causes we deal with every week.
Fat, Oil and Grease Build-Up
A common kitchen issue, fat and oil may seem harmless when hot, but they harden as they cool. Over time, this greasy build-up sticks to the inside of your drains and catches food scraps. We see this often when providing kitchen drain unblocking services. It’s one of the easiest causes to prevent but one of the most common reasons people need a drain unblocker.
Tree Roots Growing Into Pipes
Tree roots are a leading cause of blocked drains, especially in older Auckland properties. Roots are drawn to moisture and can slip into cracks or joins in underground pipes. Over time, they grow inside the pipe and restrict water flow. Our drain unblockers often find these during CCTV inspections and use root-cutting equipment to remove them without digging.
Wet Wipes, Tissues and Sanitary Products
Many of our Auckland drain unblocking callouts are due to non-flushable items. Wet wipes, paper towels, nappies and sanitary products don’t break down in water like toilet paper does. These items often get stuck and block the drain entirely, especially in toilet systems.
Hair and Soap Scum in Bathroom Drains
In bathroom drains, hair and soap scum are the usual suspects. They slowly build up in showers, baths and vanities, forming clumps that clog your pipes. Our drain unblockers commonly deal with these blockages in homes across Auckland, and we recommend regular cleaning to prevent recurring issues.
Foreign Objects in the Drain
It’s more common than you’d think! Small objects like toys, cotton buds or bits of food get accidentally flushed or washed down the sink. These can get stuck in bends or joins in the pipes and cause a major blockage. When we’re called out for drain unblocking, these are often the trickiest to remove without the right tools.
Stormwater Overload During Heavy Rain
Heavy rain can overwhelm your stormwater system, especially if drains are already partially blocked. Leaves, dirt and debris can build up around grates or inside pipes, stopping water from draining properly. In these cases, you’ll need a professional Auckland drain unblocker to clear the system and stop flooding around your home.
How do we unblock drains?
As experienced drain unblockers in Auckland, we don’t guess, we get straight to the source of the problem. Our team uses professional-grade equipment to quickly identify what’s causing the blockage and clear it safely and thoroughly. Whether you’re dealing with a blocked toilet, kitchen sink, or an overflowing stormwater drain, our drain unblocking service is designed to fix it properly the first time.
We don’t believe in temporary fixes. That’s why we use a combination of diagnostic tools and high-powered equipment to make sure your drains stay clear for the long run. Every job starts with an assessment so we can choose the right method — and in most cases, we can unblock your drain then and there.
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Why Choose Drain Unblockers?
We’re not just another drainage company – we’re a team that truly cares about delivering long lasting results.
Here’s why Aucklanders trust us:
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Areas We Service
We’re proud to be the go-to experts for drain unblockers Auckland, serving customers across the region, including South Auckland, North Shore and East Auckland.
Auckland Central
Drain Unblocking in Ponsonby
Drain Unblocking in Mount Eden
Drain Unblocking in Parnell
Drain Unblocking in Freemans Bay
Drain Unblocking in Grafton
North Shore
Drain Unblocking in Devonport
Drain Unblocking in Takapuna
Drain Unblocking in Torbay
Drain Unblocking in Albany
Drain Unblocking in Browns Bay
West Auckland
Drain Unblocking in Green Bay
Drain Unblocking in Riverhead
Drain Unblocking in Hobsonville Point
Drain Unblocking in Te Atatu Peninsula
Drain Unblocking in Laingholm
Drain Unblocking in Hobsonville
Drain Unblocking in Oratia
Drain Unblocking in Waitakeres
Drain Unblocking in Kumeu
Drain Unblocking in Ranui
Drain Unblocking in Kelston
Drain Unblocking in Henderson
Drain Unblocking in Royal Heights
Drain Unblocking in Glen Eden
Drain Unblocking in Massey
East Auckland
Drain Unblocking in Orakei
Drain Unblocking in Mission Bay
Drain Unblocking in Howick
Drain Unblocking in Kohimarama
Drain Unblocking in St Heliers
Drain Unblocking in Glendowie
Drain Unblocking in St Johns
Drain Unblocking in Stonefields
Drain Unblocking in Meadowbank
Drain Unblocking in Wai-O-Taiki Bay
Drain Unblocking in Glen Innes
Drain Unblocking in Remuera
South Auckland
Drain Unblocking in Manukau
Drain Unblocking Papakura
Drain Unblocking Clover Park
Drain Unblocking Chapel Downs
Drain Unblocking Flat Bush
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about our drain services.
Fat, oil and grease build-up is the number one cause in kitchen drains. For bathroom drains, it's hair and soap scum. For outdoor drains, tree root intrusion is the most common culprit in Auckland.
No. A blocked drain will only get worse over time. Even if water starts flowing again temporarily, the build-up is still there and will cause another blockage. Better to clear it properly now than deal with an emergency later.
A CCTV drain inspection is highly recommended if you're experiencing recurring blockages, slow drainage, or unpleasant odours. It provides a non-invasive way to identify the exact cause of the issue, such as cracks, tree root intrusion, or debris buildup, allowing for a targeted and efficient solution.
Recurring blockages in the same drain, gurgling sounds and slow drainage that gradually worsens are common signs. The only way to confirm is with a CCTV drain inspection. We can show you the footage so you can see exactly what's happening inside the pipe.
To unblock an outdoor drain (Sewer drains, gulley traps etc.), first remove any visible debris, then use a drain rod to break up deeper blockages. Flush the drain with a garden hose or pressure washer, and for grease buildup, pour baking soda and vinegar before rinsing with hot water. If the blockage persists, call Drain Unblockers for high-pressure jetting or a CCTV inspection to check for tree roots or pipe damage.
Yes, CCTV drain inspections are completely safe for your drains. The cameras are specifically designed for plumbing use, ensuring they won’t cause any damage to your pipes. They help identify blockages, cracks, or other issues without invasive digging, making them one of the best ways to diagnose drain problems efficiently.
Our pricing varies based on the service required and the complexity of the job. See our rates below:
Drain Unblocking (Hydro Jetting): $150 – $245 per hour
CCTV Drain Inspection: $200 – $300 per hour
Hydro Jetting & CCTV Combo: $295 – $385 per hour
For a precise quote tailored to your situation, contact our team today
Contact Us Today About Your Drainage Needs
Need urgent drain assistance? We provide a 2-hour emergency callout to quickly resolve your issues. Call us before midday for our same-day service guarantee. Whether you know what needs fixing or require expert guidance, reach out today for fast, reliable solutions.
