Blocked Drains Townsville
Fast & Professional Drainage & Blocked Drains Service
Second, we use only the best materials for all our installation and repair services. We have contact with the best providers of plumbing materials, and we purchase the items we use in all our projects from them only.
Last, our services are all affordable, and we make sure to work within your budget without compromising quality. For these reasons, you can rely on 1touch Plumbing to give you the best services for all your plumbing needs.
Signs You Have Blocked Drains & Drainage Issues
- The drainage is slow or inconsistent
- Odd sounds, such as gurgling noises, are coming from the pipes
- Unpleasant odours are emanating from the drains
- Water is backing up, or black debris is seeping up from the drains
What Causes Blocked Drains?
Over time, a build-up of hair, grease, soap and food waste can lead to a blockage. When grease binds with hair follicles and soap fragments, it can create a thick and difficult-to-remove obstruction. This is often how blocked drains are formed in your bathroom or kitchen sink.
Toilets are often clogged by household sanitary products, such as wet wipes and menstrual pads. Only toilet paper should ever be flushed down a toilet.
Underground pipes can be blocked or damaged if tree roots intrude into the drain area. It’s advisable to have regular plumbing maintenance inspections to ensure your pipes and drains aren’t compromised by any of these factors.
DIY Fixes For A Blocked Drain Are Not Always The Solution
If a blockage appears to be minor, the use of a plunger might quickly dislodge food particles or other minor causes of the blockage. If this is unsuccessful or for serious drainage concerns, your best option is to rely on an experienced professional. Other DIY fixes can worsen issue, damage and other problems that affect the integrity of your plumbing.
1touch Plumbing has handled jobs both large and small. Our experience ranges from simple toilet blockages and drains repairs to complex troubleshooting involving storm damage, tree roots and other blocked drain emergencies.
Townsville's Professional Drainage Plumber
A blocked drain or sewer left too long can lead to cost-prohibitive repairs or replacement. That’s why it’s best to deal with the problem quickly and efficiently. It’s also advisable to have regular plumbing maintenance to detect problems before they start.
The good news is that our plumbers are professional, friendly and courteous and will provide you with a full cost for approval before they commence any work. That way, there are no surprises, and you can be assured of top-quality service, guaranteed using the most advanced state-of-the-art equipment, tools and machinery.
With several years of experience working with private and commercial property owners in Townsville, 1touch Plumbing is a team committed to delivering the least disruptive and most economical and reliable outcomes to our customers.
Contact Our Blocked Drain Plumbers Today
We’re open for callouts 24/7, so contact the 1touch Plumbing team today for assistance with your blocked drains.
Call us on (07) 4751 7600 or email our team at admin@1touchplumbing.com.au to get started.
Our Latest Blocked Drain Blogs
How to Unblock a Toilet: Safe DIY Methods & When to Call a Plumber
You flush the toilet, the water rises instead of going down, and suddenly, a simple bathroom trip gets messy and stressful. Most of the time, it’s too much toilet paper or a small clog in the bend of the toilet, blocking water from flowing properly. The good news is you can clear out these minor blockages using a few safe DIY methods. But first, you must understand what type of blockage you’re dealing with, so you don’t waste time on the wrong fix. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do right away, how to unblock a toilet using simple methods, and the clear signs that tell you when it’s no longer a DIY job and you need a licensed plumber. TL;DR First: Stop the Toilet From Overflowing The float controls the fill valve. As the tank fills, the float rises, and once it reaches a set height, it shuts off the water supply. If the water is still running, gently lift the float as high as it will go and hold it there. This forces the valve to close and stops more water from entering the tank. Understand What Kind of Blockage You’re Dealing With Before you try to fix anything, figure out what kind of blockage it is. This tells you how serious it is and whether you can handle it yourself or need an expert. Most toilet blockages fall into two types: 1. Simple Clogs A simple clog means the blockage is stuck inside the toilet itself, usually in the S-bend (the curved part inside the base of the toilet). This bend holds a bit of water to stop sewer smells from coming back into your bathroom, but because it’s narrow and curved, it’s the easiest place for things to get stuck. Clogs happen because of: How to spot a simple clog: Because the issue is in the toilet, you can fix it yourself using basic tools. 2. Deep Blockages A deep blockage means the problem is further down in your home’s drainage system, usually in the main sewer line that carries waste out of your house. Deep blockages happen because of: How to spot a deep blockage: If you notice these signs, this isn’t something you can fix yourself because the issue is deep in the system and out of your reach. Also, under Queensland regulations, any work on sewer pipes must be carried out by a licensed plumber. DIY Methods to Unblock a Toilet If you’ve worked out that it’s a simple clog, you can clear it yourself using the methods below. Method 1: Use a Toilet Plunger the Right Way A plunger is the most effective way to clear a toilet blockage, but it only works if you use the right type to create a tight seal. Always use a flange plunger and not a flat plunger when unblocking a toilet. A flat plunger, as the name says, has a flat base designed for surfaces like basins and sinks, so it will not sit and seal properly in the round and recessed toilet opening. A flange plunger is made specifically for toilets. It has a soft rubber cup with an extra fold underneath that sits slightly inside the toilet opening to cover it completely and form a tight seal around the hole, so you can build enough pressure to move the blockage. How to use it: Method 2: Use a Toilet Auger for Stubborn Clogs If the plunger doesn’t work, the clog is likely deeper or more solid, so use a toilet auger (also called a plumbing snake). It’s a long, flexible metal cable designed to reach deeper into the toilet trap and either break the blockage or pull it out. How to use it: Method 3: Try Hot Water and Dish Soap This works well for clogs caused by toilet paper because the soap helps it slide, and the hot water softens it. How to do it: Method 4: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar Carefully This method works by creating a gentle fizzing reaction that helps loosen minor clogs, especially those caused by toilet paper. How to do it: DIY Methods to Use With Caution These are emergency options, so you only use them if you’re stuck without proper tools. The Wire Hanger Trick This is a homemade version of a plumbing snake that only works if the clog is sitting very close to the toilet opening, almost within reach. How to do it: Please know that if you push too hard, the clog can move deeper into the S-bend. And once that happens, a hanger won’t reach it anymore, and it becomes a plumber’s job, which takes more time and higher repair costs. Wet/Dry Vacuum (Suction Method) This method is only for cases where you know for sure that something solid is stuck in the toilet, like a toy, toothbrush, or small object, and you have to take it out. How to do it: This only works with a wet/dry vacuum. A normal household vacuum isn’t designed for water, so it can damage the motor and even create an electrical hazard. Also, the vacuum can accidentally pull in sewer gases or spray dirty water everywhere if the towel seal isn’t tight, which can spread germs and create a health risk, making the situation messier and harder for you to clean up. Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners Most chemical cleaners are made for sinks, where hair and grease sit closer to the surface. In a toilet, the blockage is usually further down and already sitting in water, so the chemical doesn’t always reach it properly or break it apart. These cleaners also create heat when they react inside the pipe. In older or worn plumbing, that heat can put stress on pipe joints and seals, which may lead to leaks or damage over time. If the blockage doesn’t clear, you’re left with a bowl full of strong chemical water. That becomes a problem later because anyone working on the toilet […]
Heat Pump Hot Water Systems: The Complete Australian Guide
When you’re trying to bring down your power bills, heat pump hot water systems easily come up as one of the solutions. And rightly so – they use very little electricity and rely on heat from the surrounding air to warm your water, which works especially well in consistently warm places like Townsville. But whether they’re actually worth it depends on a few things. Performance and cost-efficiency can vary based on the type of system, how it’s installed, and how your household uses hot water. This guide breaks down how heat pump systems work, how different types compare, what they cost to run, and the key pros and cons to consider before making the switch. TL;DR What Is a Heat Pump Hot Water System? It’s an efficient water heater that extracts heat from the air around it and uses it to warm your water. A heat pump almost works like a fridge, but in reverse. Where a fridge removes heat from inside to keep things cold and releases heat into the air, a heat pump takes heat from the air outside and transfers it to the water stored in the tank. So instead of producing heat on its own like a standard electric heater, it simply moves existing heat from outside to inside the water tank, which makes it much more energy- and cost-efficient than other hot water systems. How a Heat Pump Hot Water System Works A heat pump system works in a simple cycle that happens inside the unit in four steps. Types of Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Based on Configuration How a system is built and arranged decides where it can be installed, how much space it takes up, and how much the installation costs. 1. Integrated Systems An integrated system is a single unit where the heat pump sits directly on top of the water tank, which is the most common setup you’ll see in Townsville. Because it’s all in one piece, it doesn’t take up much ground space, as, instead of spreading out, it goes upwards. This makes it easier to fit into outdoor areas like side yards or small utility spaces. Installation is also quicker and cheaper because it’s more of a plug-and-play setup with fewer parts that need connecting. But since these units are quite tall, they might not fit properly if you have a low window, a low roofline, or limited vertical clearance under the eaves. Also, because the fan and motor are fixed on top of the tank, you can’t move the noisy parts away from the installation spot, so placement becomes important. 2. Split Systems A split system, as the name suggests, separates the two main parts. The water tank sits in one spot, while the heat pump unit (the noisy part with the fan and compressor) is placed somewhere else nearby, connected by pipes. This setup gives you more flexibility. If you don’t have enough height for a tall unit, or you want to keep the noise away from a bedroom, window, or outdoor sitting area, you can place the motor further away where it won’t bother you. But it costs more to set up, as installation is complex because your plumber and electrician need to connect two separate units and run extra piping between them. Types Based on Heat Source All heat pump systems do the same basic job – they take heat and move it into your water. The only difference is where that heat comes from, the air or the ground. 1. Air-Source Heat Pumps An air-source heat pump gets heat from the air around your house. Even when the sun isn’t shining, the air holds ample thermal energy. The system pulls that air in using a fan, captures the heat inside it, and transfers that heat into your water. This is why it works so well in Townsville’s warm, tropical climate, where the air stays warm most of the year. With average temperatures around 28°C in summer and even in the coolest month of July sitting around 20°C, the system always has plenty of heat in the air to draw from, so it doesn’t have to work hard to do its job. You don’t need anything special for installation, either; just install it in a well-ventilated outdoor spot where air can freely move in and out of the unit. 2. Ground-Source (Geothermal) Heat Pumps A ground-source system gets heat from the earth underground. A few metres below the surface, the ground stays at a steady temperature all year round, no matter how hot or cold it is above. These systems use long pipes buried underground to collect that stable heat and transfer it into your water. Although these systems are efficient, they are rarely used in Australian homes because you need major digging work to install the underground pipe system, which makes installation expensive and disruptive. They are only used in large or complex builds, like commercial buildings or high-end properties with plenty of space and budget for underground piping. Based on Heating Technology This refers to how heat is actually transferred into your water inside the tank. You can’t see it from the outside, but it plays a big role in how long the system lasts, how efficient it is, and how much maintenance it may need over time, so always ask your plumber or supplier about it before you decide on a system. 1. Wrap-Around Coils In this design, the heating coils sit outside the water tank, wrapped around it like a jacket. They don’t touch the water directly and heat it; instead, they heat the tank wall, and that heat then passes through into the water. Because the coils never touch the water, they don’t get coated with minerals found in the hard water in many parts of Australia, which forms buildup and damages components. And since the heating parts stay clean, the system runs efficiently for longer, often 15 years or more. The only disadvantage is that they can […]
CCTV Drain Inspections: What to Expect & When You Need One
If your sink is draining slowly, your toilet is gurgling, or you notice a strange smell coming from your yard, it’s tempting to just plunge or pour chemicals down the drain. The problem is, these are only temporary fixes, as you can’t solve the issue for good unless you know what’s really causing it, and often, the source is hidden in the pipes beneath your home. A CCTV drain inspection lets you see inside your pipes without digging up your yard, so you can understand why your drains are acting up, catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs, and make smart decisions about maintenance or repairs. In this guide, we’ll explain what a CCTV inspection is, what issues it can uncover, and why it’s worth considering, so you can protect your home and avoid unnecessary stress or expenses. TL;DR What Is a CCTV Drain Inspection? A CCTV drain inspection is a non-invasive method that uses a high-resolution, waterproof camera attached to a flexible cable to look inside the drain in real time. This gives a clear, accurate view of your pipe’s condition and helps identify specific problems like cracks, tree root intrusions, blockages, or even collapsed sections. The setup includes: Most modern systems also include a sonde, which is a small signal-emitting device attached to the camera. As the camera moves underground, the plumber uses a locator above ground to track its exact position and depth so they can pinpoint the exact spot without digging up large areas. What to Expect in a CCTV Drain Inspection Before the Inspection The plumber starts by finding the best entry point into your drain. This is usually an inspection opening, a gully, or an outdoor drain grate. You must make sure these areas are easy to access and not blocked by pots, soil, or debris. If your drain is overflowing or completely blocked with standing water, the plumber may first use a high-pressure water jetter to clear the immediate buildup and remove grease, sludge, and loose debris so the camera can actually see the pipe walls clearly. Otherwise, the footage would just show dirty water instead of the real condition of the pipe. During the Inspection After the Inspection Once the camera is removed, the plumber will go through the footage with you. They’ll show you exactly what was found, explain what it means in simple terms, and suggest the next steps, like a thorough clean or more targeted repairs. You’ll also receive a digital copy of the recording along with a report that outlines the condition of your pipes. This gives you clear evidence of your drain’s condition, which helps you plan repairs or provide proof for an insurance claim. What Problems a CCTV Drain Inspection Can Reveal A CCTV drain inspection can uncover the following issues in your pipes: Signs You May Need a CCTV Drain Inspection If you notice any of the following signs, it is a clear indicator that something is happening beneath the surface that requires a visual check. How Long a CCTV Drain Inspection Takes and What It Costs In Townsville, a residential CCTV drain inspection usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours and costs between $250 and $550, depending on the complexity of your pipes and the inspection required. Both the time on-site and the price can vary based on these factors: 1. Age and Condition of Pipes: Older pipes may have cracks, sagging sections, or partial blockages. Inspecting these carefully takes extra time to ensure every issue is captured, which can also slightly increase the cost. 2. Access and Layout: Inspections are quicker and cheaper when entry points, such as inspection openings, gullies, or boundary traps, are easy to reach and free of grass, debris, or soil. Buried, blocked, or hard-to-reach access points require extra preparation and setup, adding to the time and labour cost. 3. Scope of the Inspection: Checking a single blocked line is faster and more affordable than surveying your entire drainage system. After heavy rain, it’s common for plumbers to inspect both sewerage and stormwater lines, which takes longer and costs more. 4. Blockages or Debris Inside the Pipes: Thick roots, grease, silt, or other debris can slow the inspection. The plumber may need to pause and clear the line with a high-pressure jetter to allow the camera to pass, which adds both time and equipment costs. 5. Type of Inspection: A standard CCTV inspection, which focuses on finding blockages or obvious damage, usually costs around $250–$350. More advanced surveys using a pan-and-tilt camera to view all angles inside the pipe are more detailed and cost more. 6. Pipe Length: Standard fees often cover around 20–30 metres. Longer runs, such as from a distant connection to the main sewer, may incur additional charges based on distance or the extra time needed. 7. Reporting Requirements: Many plumbers include a copy of the footage and report in the standard fee, but some may charge extra for a formal report with annotated photos and a digital copy of the footage for pre-purchase checks or insurance claims. By understanding these factors, you’ll know what to expect in both time and cost before booking a CCTV drain inspection so you can plan your day, budget accurately, and avoid unexpected delays or fees. Final Thoughts A CCTV drain inspection lets you see exactly what’s happening underground, whether it’s tree roots, sagging pipes, or build-up that’s already causing trouble or could cause problems in the future. It is also useful if you’re buying a home, checking the condition of older pipes, or need solid evidence for an insurance claim. With a clear view of your drains, you can make informed decisions and even get the compensation you’re entitled to. Once the inspection is done, your plumber can walk you through what was found and recommend the next step, whether that’s a proper clean, pipe relining, or a targeted repair, so you do not waste time or money trying temporary fixes. If you’re in Townsville and […]
How to Read Your Water Meter & Detect Hidden Leaks
You’ve looked at your water bill, and something doesn’t add up. You know your household isn’t using this much water, and now you’re staring at the metre wondering what it’s actually telling you. What do the numbers tell? How can you tell if there’s a leak? This guide walks you through exactly what to look for. You’ll learn how to read the key numbers, understand what they mean, and spot any unusual water use with a few simple checks. By the end, you’ll be able to check your water usage confidently, identify hidden leaks fast, and take control of your bills. TL;DR Where to Find Your Water Meter In Townsville homes, the metre is installed out the front of the property, typically positioned along either the left or right boundary line. If you live in a unit or townhouse, the setup depends on the building. If there’s only one main metre, you can’t use it to track just your own water use or confirm a leak specific to your unit. It only shows the total water going into the whole building. In that case, leak checks need to be handled at a building level, or you’ll need help from the body corporate (the management group responsible for shared parts of the building) or a plumber who can isolate your unit’s supply. Once you are in the metre area, now look for the metre itself: in most houses, it’s installed in the ground inside a small rectangular box. In units or townhouses, it may be: If it’s in the ground, check for a covered box called a metre pit. The lid is usually labelled “Water Metre” or “TCC” (Townsville City Council), confirming you’ve found the correct metre. How to Read Your Water Meter Step by Step Step 1: Open the Metre Box and Access The Display Once you have found the metre box, lift its concrete or plastic lid. If it feels stuck because of dirt or sand, use a flat-head screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry it open. Once opened, you will see the water metre assembly, which consists of three main parts: Once you can clearly see the metre face, you’re ready to move on to actually reading the numbers. Step 2: Read the Kilolitres (kL) Mechanical metre Digital metre The first set of numbers shows how many kilolitres (kL) of water have passed through your metre since it was installed. One kilolitre equals 1,000 litres. This is the only figure Townsville City Council uses for your quarterly water billing because it represents the total water consumption in large, standard units, making billing easy. Step 3: Record the Litres The second set of numbers tracks individual litres. These move much faster than the kilolitre digits and are useful for spotting small leaks or tracking short-term use like a single shower or load of washing. Step 4: Calculate Your Usage To find out how much water you’ve used over a specific period, like a day, week, or month, you need two readings. For example, if your reading was 342 kL last week and 350 kL today, you’ve used 8 kilolitres, which equals 8,000 litres in seven days. Once you’re done, place the box lid back securely. This keeps dirt and sand from covering the display and protects the metre from heat, weather, and accidental lawnmower damage. How to Detect Hidden Leaks Using Your Meter Hidden leaks can run for weeks or months without being obvious, which increases your water bill and damages your home. Your water metre gives you a quick way to confirm if there’s a leak before you bring in a plumber. Here are two simple ways to detect leaks: 1. The 15-Minute Visual Test (For Active Leaks) This test is for leaks that are happening constantly, like a running toilet, a split pipe, or a fitting that hasn’t sealed properly. Turn off all taps, stop any appliances like washing machines or dishwashers, and let everyone in the house know not to use water for the next 10–15 minutes. Now go to your metre and look at the display. If the metre shows no movement, it means there’s no active leak. 2. The Overnight Consumption Test (For Slow or Hard-to-Notice Leaks) Some leaks are too small to notice straight away, or they don’t run constantly, as a pipe joint might only leak under pressure. So, you need to perform an overnight test to find such leaks. Before you go to bed, take a full reading from your metre. Write down all the numbers, both kilolitres and litres. Then turn off all taps and appliances and make sure no water is used overnight. In the morning, check the metre again before anyone uses water. Now compare the two readings. If the numbers are the same, there’s likely no leak. If they’ve increased, even slightly, something is letting water through. Narrow it Down: Inside or Outside If you found a leak, the next step is figuring out where it’s coming from. Find the main valve that controls water for the inside of your home; it’s usually near your front garden tap or where the pipe enters the house. Turn this handle clockwise until it stops. This cuts off the water to your indoor taps, toilets, and appliances, but keeps the water moving in the underground pipe between the street metre and your house. Now go back to your metre and check it again. Knowing whether the leak is inside or outside helps you explain the problem clearly when you call a plumber, which can reduce time spent diagnosing the issue. It also matters for responsibility. How to Use Your Meter to Check if Your Bill Is Right If from the above tests, your metre showed movement when no water is being used in your home and your latest bill is higher than usual without any obvious reason (like filling a pool or hosting guests), you have a confirmed leak. (We will explain later what […]
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Frequently Asked Questions
There are many warning signs that there is a blocked drain on your property. The most common symptom of a blocked drain is a foul or unpleasant smell emitting from the drain. Additionally, slow drainage or incomplete drainage are also signs that your drain could be blocked. Strange gurgling sounds may also be indicative that there is a draining problem somewhere within your drain system.
A blocked drain can be caused by many things. Whether you suspect you know what the culprit is or you’re completely unsure, the best course of action is to call in a professional plumber. That being said, the most common reason why a drain becomes blocked is due to solid materials or items obstructing the flow of liquid. Items that frequently obstruct a drain include hair, tissue, sanitary towels and more.
If you are going to attempt to clear a blocked drain yourself, it’s important that you follow the correct procedures. The most popular DIY method of clearing a blocked drain is to pour hot water down the drain, followed by some baking soda and vinegar. Wait between 5 and 10 minutes before pouring more hot water down. However, it is advised that you call out a plumber to unclog a drain in order to make sure that it is cleared correctly and safely.
Blocked stormwater drains typically show signs like pooling water around your property, slow drainage during heavy rain or gurgling noises from the pipes. If left unattended, blocked stormwater drains can lead to flooding and property damage. If you suspect a problem, it’s best to consult a plumber experienced in clearing Townsville blocked drains.
To prevent blockages, avoid flushing items like wet wipes, paper towels, sanitary products and excessive amounts of toilet paper. Even items marketed as “flushable" can cause issues, as they don’t break down easily in the pipes. Only flush human waste and toilet paper to keep your drains clear.
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and can invade small cracks in underground pipes. Over time, as the roots grow, they cause significant blockages by obstructing the pipe or even breaking through it. If you have large trees near your home, regular plumbing inspections can help detect root intrusions early. Need blocked drain plumbing solutions? Our experienced team is ready to help!
Blocked shower drains are often caused by a build-up of hair, soap scum and other debris. Over time, these materials can accumulate in the pipes, restricting water flow and leading to slow drainage or standing water in your shower. If you’re facing this issue, it’s essential to contact a plumber who specialises in blocked drain plumbing to resolve the blockage before it worsens.
It’s best to leave clearing blocked drains to professional plumbers. While some home remedies might seem effective, improper attempts can worsen the problem or cause damage to your pipes. A professional plumber will have the right tools and expertise to clear the blockage safely and thoroughly, ensuring no further issues arise. If you notice signs of a blockage, such as slow draining or gurgling sounds, contact a professional as soon as possible to resolve the issue before it escalates.
When multiple drains are blocked simultaneously, it often indicates a more severe issue with your main sewer line. This requires a professional to locate and fix the problem. A professional plumber in Townsville can quickly assess the situation and offer a solution to prevent further damage.
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