Beating blocked toilets and drains
Blocked drains are a common cause of tenant debt, as residents may not always be aware of what shouldn’t be flushed or washed down kitchen, bathroom, and toilet drains. While Housing Choices is responsible for repairing burst pipes or naturally occurring blockages, residents may be charged if the blockage is caused by resident’s actions.
Toilet blockages Toilet paper is the only thing that you should flush down the toilet. Don't flush the following as they can cause blockages:
Kitchen drain blockages Many food items can cause blockages by being washed down the sink. Make sure these go in the bin instead:
Shower/bathroom sink blockages Some everyday things we wash down bathroom drains can cause blockages. Keep these out of your drains:
Sanitary/hygiene products and nappies. Baby, make up or disinfectant wipes – even those that say flushable!
Grease, oil and cooking fat that solidifies in pipes. Starchy food scraps like rice, pasta and flour that expand and stick together. Coffee grounds and tea leaves which don’t break down.
Human and pet hair - which mats together causing blockage. Body scrubs and exfoliants like sugar and coffee scrubs. Dental floss - which can tangle and create a net that traps other materials.
Tissues or paper towel.
TIP: Use a drain cover to catch food debris and regularly clean your kitchen drains to dislodge any build up that may occur. Pour 1 cup of bicarbonate soda, 1 cup of warm water and 1 cup vinegar in and around the drain and leave for 20 minutes then pour warm water down and around the drain.
A slow or weak toilet flush often means that a clog is forming in your toilet drain. Use a plunger to try move small blockages before they become a more serious issue. TIP:
TIP:
Drain covers can help prevent hair going down shower drains. If you notice water pooling or draining slowly, a drain snake from bunnings can help remove hair clogs and restore proper flow.
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