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How to Unblock a Drain: Signs, DIY Fixes & When to Call a Plumber

Blocked drains can cause serious damage if left unchecked. Learn how to recognise early signs, safely unblock your drains using DIY methods, and know when it’s time to call in the professionals. Get practical tips to prevent plumbing emergencies at home or work.

How to Spot a Blocked Drain
Blocked drains often start small, but catching the issue early can prevent larger problems down the track. Here are the most common signs to watch out for:
- Slow-Draining Sinks or Showers: If water is draining slower than usual, there’s likely a blockage somewhere.
- Unpleasant Smells: Foul odours from your drain are usually a sign of trapped waste.
- Gurgling Noises: If you hear strange noises coming from the pipes, it’s often air trapped behind a clog.
- Water Backing Up: If water rises up through your sinks or toilets, this could indicate a serious blockage.
If you notice any of these, don’t wait. Call us at (02) 9139 8003 before the problem worsens.
What You Can Do About Blocked Drains
If the issue seems minor, there are a few things you can try before calling a plumber:
- Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: These can damage your pipes, especially older systems.
- Try boiling water or baking soda and vinegar: These natural remedies can break down small clogs.
- Plunge or Snake the Drain: If the clog isn’t too deep, a plunger or drain snake might help.
- Call a Licensed Plumber: If the blockage persists or keeps coming back, it’s best to get professional help to prevent further damage.
If you’re not sure or the issue persists, don’t hesitate to contact Mint Plumbing & Relining.
Emergency Plumbing for Blocked Drains
A blocked drain can quickly become an emergency, especially if it’s causing water to back up or flooding your home or business. If you’re experiencing a sudden blockage, it’s important to act fast. Mint Plumbing & Relining offers emergency plumbing services for blocked drains, ensuring you get quick, professional help when you need it most. Our team is on call to provide immediate solutions and prevent further damage to your property.
Take Action Before It Gets Worse
Ignoring blocked drains can lead to bigger issues, such as burst pipes or flooding. If you’re dealing with frequent blockages, bad smells, or water backup, it’s time to get professional help. Early intervention can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Don’t wait until the problem worsens. Call Mint Plumbing & Relining for fast and reliable assistance. We’ll clear your drains and ensure everything is running smoothly.
Why Choose Mint Plumbing & Relining?
At Mint Plumbing & Relining, we understand how frustrating plumbing issues can be. Our expert team offers quick, reliable solutions for everything from drain inspections to pipe relining. Whether you’re dealing with a minor blockage or a major drainage issue, we have the expertise to get the job done right.
We’re trusted by homeowners and businesses across Sydney, including those with older plumbing systems in the Eastern Suburbs. Our goal is to help you avoid costly repairs by addressing issues early. Let us solve your plumbing problems quickly and efficiently.
Get in touch with our expert team today before your blocked drain turns into an emergency!

Service Areas
Our team proudly serves Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, from Watsons Bay to Maroubra, Randwick to Rose Bay, and everywhere in between.
Whether you’re in Bondi, Coogee, Paddington, or Potts Point, you can rely on Mint Plumbing & Relining for fast, local service, with a $0 call-out fee throughout the Eastern Suburbs.
Wherever you’re located in the east, we’ve got your plumbing needs covered.

Customer Testimonials
EXCELLENT Based on 297 reviews Richard Philip11 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mint provide a much appreciated, and very timely (i.e. prompt and on time) service tending to blocked pipes and then redirecting/reconnecting pipes to address long term problems. Liam, Yvan and George were all very nice, helpful and professional. Many thanks. Gary Williamson10 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mint plumbing were quick to organise there appointment.They prompt and very efficient with their service.I thoroughly recommend Mint Plumbing. Susan Lee5 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks for responding and fixing our leaks so promptly and honestly! Highly recommend Liam and the Mint team! Caroline E4 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional service, communication and result. Mint Plumbing saved me from pulling up two bathrooms and did it over one weekend. If I could give them 10 stars I would. Ryan Johns2 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Company is very professional & easy to work with. Honest & highly recommend! Chris Bennett1 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jamie could not be more helpful. Reviewed the sewer main Junction on the proper and is organising a quote to reline the pipe. Will get the job. Rachael Frazer28 May 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What an amazing team! Liam was very prompt with his visit and quote and Jamie installed the next day! Very pleased with result, promptness and price. Thank you so much! Seb Walden28 May 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Quick, efficient and personable. Highly recommend Huiling Yu27 May 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Arrived within 30 minutes for emergency call, accurate diagnosis, and prompt action. Job was done immaculately, and site was left clean.