The Top Signs That Indicate You Have a Drain Blockage

Name: Blocked Drain Sydney
Brand: Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers
Rating: 5 (3 reviews)

Posted by Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers on 16 Jan 2026

Dealing with a blocked drain can be frustrating, and it’s always best to catch the problem early. We have compiled a list with signs to watch for when you are dealing with blocked drains.

Slow draining

If your sink or bathtub takes longer than normal to drain, you may have a blockage. This is one of the most common signs of a blocked drain. It could be caused by something as simple as a buildup of hair, soap, or grease.

Foul Odors

A blockage in your pipes can cause foul odors from your drains. This could be due to rotting food in your sink or organic matter in your bathroom’s drain.

Strange Noises

Gurgling noises coming from your pipes is another clear sign that you may have a blocked drain. These noises are usually heard when water is draining from sinks or toilets. These noises are often caused by trapped air trying to escape from the blockage.

Water backing up

If water backs up into other fixtures like toilets or sinks when you’re using appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers, it’s very likely that you have a blocked drain. Water backup can cause flooding if left untreated.

How to Deal with a Blockage

Now that we’ve covered some of the signs of blocked drains let’s take a look at what you should do if you suspect there’s an issue with yours:

Use A Plunger To clear small blockages in your pipes, a plunger is a good choice.
Pour Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water down your drain can help break down soap scum and melt away any grease or fats.
Try A Store-Bought Drain Cleaner: Be careful when using these as some can damage pipes over time. You can also make your own drain cleaner with baking soda and vinegar.

If none of these solutions work it is time to call a professional plumber. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to locate and effectively remove any blockages in your pipes.

Conclusion

Blocked drains can be frustrating to deal with, but catching them early can save you money and prevent further damage. You’ll quickly be able to identify the signs that we have discussed and take appropriate action.

Key Takeaways

Slow draining can be a sign of a blocked drain. This is usually caused by hair, soap, or grease.
Foul odors emanating from your drains could indicate blockage caused by organic matter stuck in your pipes.
When water drains from toilets or sinks, you will hear gurgling sounds coming from your pipes. This could indicate trapped air trying to escape.
If water is backing up in other fixtures, it could indicate a problem with your drainage system.
There are many solutions, starting with a plunger