While there are several different reasons for drain blockages, starting with easier ones like hair or soap build-up, to more complicated and expensive issues such as tree root blockages that can not only block drains but burst pipes as well, there's always a way to tell which issue you're dealing with before you take any measures.

Proper inspection and diagnosis of the issue will allow you or your plumber to address the issue using the proper methods and supplies rather than shooting in the dark. 

Whether you have a blocked kitchen sink drain, a blocked toilet, or issues with other drain pipes, here are some of the ways you can use to tell whether or not you're having a drainage problem.

These common signs will help you learn how to do a proper drain inspection so you can catch the problem before it escalates and does any further damage.

1.  Slowly draining

If your sink or tub drains slowly and fills up with water much easier, this could be one of the first signs of a blocked drain. The primary culprits in this situation are most commonly soap scum, hair and oily substances which can easily build-up in your drains and block them.

2. Gurgling sounds

If you hear a gurgling sound when water passes through the drains this may indicate a build-up in the drain that's trapped air somewhere within the drainage system. This might be a more serious issue than a simple clog and might require the use of professional tools such as a jetter or a snake depending on what's causing the problem.

3. A bad smell

If you notice an unpleasant smell coming through in your kitchen or bathroom, you may be dealing with a clog.

4. Your toilet backs up

If your toilet backs up when you flush it, you are probably dealing with a blockage somewhere along the drainage system. This may be caused by flushing feminine products, baby wipes, or even larger items such as children's toys, diapers, dead pets (ex. goldfish) and so on.

If your drainage problem is more severe and requires the use of a drain camera, a jetter or a drain machine, you should consider hiring professional plumbing services especially if the situation calls for specialized equipment and drain repairs. Our experienced plumbers will be able to address any type of drain issue using the latest technology and their unmatched expertise and knowledge.

Continuous learning and years of experience in the field have given our plumbers the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose and locate drainage problems, burst pipes, blocked sinks, and other problems related to drainage systems.

However, if you want to try resolving the problem yourself, before you turn to our plumbers for help, here are a few ways you can use to clear a blocked drain safely and effectively.

1. Boiling water

The simplest and quickest way to dissolve a blockage is to pour boiling water into the drain (use hot, not boiling water for PVC pipes). This will help break down any built-up food, grease or soap scum, but will not be quite as effective on solid blockages.

2. Vinegar and baking soda

Another effective way to dissolve a blockage is to pour baking soda and white vinegar down the drain. Let the solution sit for a while so it can mix and react, bubbling out of the pipe and clearing the blockages along the way. You should repeat the process a few times before it completely clears the blockage, then flush it out with hot water.

3. Plunger

A plunger is your go-to tool for blockages before you have to resort to other tools or employ the help of a professional. Once you get a good seal, use the up and down motion repeatedly so you can loosen up the blockage. This method is mostly used for solid blockages, and it's not very suitable for grease and mineral build-ups.

4. Drain snake

If you can't seem to dissolve or loosen up the blockage using the methods above, your last resort would be to use a drain snake to locate the blockage and remove it. Be careful when using a drain snake as you could accidentally damage or crack a pipe which can lead to a more costly and extensive issue.