Service
Blocked Drains in Cairns
Blocked drains in Cairns often mean tree roots. Ryan clears the blockage, films the pipe, and tells you exactly what's going on underground.
Blocked drains in Cairns often mean tree roots. The tropical climate and older clay pipe networks across the region make root intrusion one of the most common plumbing issues Ryan deals with. He clears the blockage, films the pipe, and tells you exactly what's going on underground.
What's covered
- Drain clearing (electric eel & jetter)
- CCTV drain camera inspections
- Root intrusion solutions
- Stormwater drainage
- Sewer repairs
Common issues
Issues Ryan sees across Cairns
Slow draining sinks & showers
Water pooling around your feet in the shower or a kitchen sink that takes minutes to empty usually means a partial blockage building up. Catching it early prevents a full blockage and potential overflow.
Tree root intrusion
Cairns' tropical trees are aggressive root growers. Fig trees, poincianas, and mango trees are notorious for finding their way into clay and PVC pipe joints. Ryan uses CCTV and jetting to clear roots and assess pipe condition.
Gurgling or bad smells
Gurgling pipes when you flush or run water indicate a venting issue or partial blockage. Sewer smells inside the house mean a drain seal has failed or a blockage is forcing gas back up the line.
Stormwater flooding
Cairns' wet season dumps serious rainfall. If your stormwater drains can't keep up, water pools around foundations and can enter sub-floor areas. Ryan clears blockages and checks capacity before the wet hits.
The process
How Ryan helps
Locate & clear the blockage
Using an electric eel or high-pressure water jetter, Ryan clears the immediate blockage and restores flow. The method depends on the type and severity of the block.
CCTV drain inspection
A camera goes down the pipe to show exactly what caused the blockage — tree roots, collapsed pipe, grease buildup, or foreign objects. You see the footage yourself so you know what's happening.
Recommend a permanent fix
If the blockage is recurring (root intrusion, pipe damage), Ryan recommends the right long-term solution — pipe relining, replacement, or root treatment. No band-aid fixes.
FAQ
Common questions
Why do my drains keep blocking?
Recurring blockages almost always mean an underlying issue — tree root intrusion, a cracked or collapsed pipe section, or a bellied pipe that traps debris. A CCTV inspection reveals the cause so Ryan can fix it permanently rather than just clearing the symptom each time.
What is a CCTV drain inspection?
A small waterproof camera is fed into the drain pipe. It records real-time footage of the pipe's internal condition — showing cracks, root intrusion, blockages, and joint failures. Ryan shows you the footage and explains what he finds. It takes the guesswork out of drain problems.
Are tree roots a big problem in Cairns?
Yes — it's one of the most common plumbing issues in the region. Cairns' tropical trees grow fast and their roots actively seek out moisture in pipe joints. Older homes with clay pipes are especially vulnerable. Regular CCTV checks can catch root intrusion before it becomes a full blockage.
What's the difference between an electric eel and a jetter?
An electric eel uses a rotating cable to cut through blockages — effective for tree roots and solid obstructions. A high-pressure water jetter blasts water at up to 5,000 PSI to scour pipes clean — better for grease, scale, and flushing debris. Ryan uses whichever method suits the blockage.
Should I get my drains checked before the wet season?
Absolutely. Cairns' wet season puts heavy demand on stormwater and sewer drains. A pre-wet-season check ensures your drains are clear and can handle the volume. Ryan recommends an annual CCTV inspection for properties with mature trees nearby.
Need blocked drains? Call Ryan.
Call 0420 909 405 or book online for a free quote. Licensed, insured, and trusted by Cairns locals.