Top 7 Causes of Blocked Drains in Liverpool Homes

Top 7 Causes of Blocked Drains in Liverpool Homes

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Top 7 Causes of Blocked Drains in Liverpool Homes (and How to Fix Them)

If you're living in Liverpool, especially in one of its many charming old terraced houses, chances are you've dealt with a blocked drain more than once. I certainly have — and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve poured boiling water down my kitchen sink hoping for a miracle.

But let’s be honest: hoping won’t fix it. Knowing what’s causing the problem? That’s where the real power lies.



So let’s break down the top 7 causes of blocked drains in Liverpool, what they look like, how they affect your plumbing, and when it’s time to call in a professional drain unblocker Liverpool.

Flushing the Wrong Stuff Down the Toilet

It may sound obvious, but wipes (even the "flushable" ones), sanitary products, cotton pads, and even paper towels don’t break down properly.

Over time, these build up in your pipes, especially if your plumbing is decades old (like many homes around Wavertree or Allerton).

Tip: Only flush the 3 P’s — pee, poo, and (toilet) paper.

Grease, Fat, and Food Waste in the Kitchen Sink

You know that leftover oil you rinse off your frying pan? It cools, hardens, and sticks to your pipes like glue.

One of the most common calls drain companies in Liverpool get is for blocked kitchen sinks — and fatbergs are often the culprit.

Tip: Wipe pans with a paper towel before washing and pour grease into a jar, not the sink.

Tree Roots in the Drain Line

This one caught me off guard in my own home. A CCTV survey revealed a small tree root had found its way into a crack in the pipe. Within a year, it had blocked half the drain!

Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can infiltrate even tiny cracks in old clay or concrete drains.

Tip: If you have trees near your home, especially older properties, get a CCTV drain survey every few years.

Soap Scum and Hair in Bathroom Drains

Ever pulled a hairball out of the shower drain? Now imagine what’s deeper down the pipe.

Soap scum binds hair and debris together, creating stubborn clogs. Over time, this narrows the pipe and slows drainage.

Tip: Use a drain guard and clean it weekly. For slow drains, try a vinegar + baking soda flush.

Poor Pipe Installation or Old Plumbing

Some older homes in Liverpool still have Victorian or mid-century drainage systems. These weren’t built for modern use, and they wear out.

Also, DIY or unqualified installations can lead to misaligned or sagging pipes that trap debris.

Tip: If you’ve had multiple blockages in a short time, call a professional for a full inspection.

Heavy Rain and Drain Overload

Liverpool’s weather doesn’t always play nice. During storms, surface water can overwhelm your drains — especially if you have leaves and debris in your gutters.

The result? Overflow, gurgling sounds, and blocked outside drains.

Tip: Clear gutters and outside drains regularly. Consider adding a drain cover to catch debris.

Lack of Regular Maintenance

Drains need TLC. Many people don’t act until it’s too late.

What starts as a slow drain can become a full-on blockage requiring drain repair in Liverpool — and those aren’t cheap.

Tip: Use safe drain maintenance products (like enzyme cleaners) monthly, and don’t ignore warning signs.

What to Do When the Drain Won’t Budge

Sometimes, DIY just doesn’t cut it. That’s when calling a local drain unblocker in Liverpool is your smartest move.

Here’s what a pro might do:

• Use a CCTV camera to locate the blockage


• Apply high-pressure water jetting or manual rodding


• Recommend minor drain repairs if there’s pipe damage

Pro Tip: Reputable drain unblockers in Liverpool will give you a fixed price before they start.

Real Feedback from Liverpool Locals

“After two blocked sinks in a month, I finally called a local company. They found a tree root issue and fixed it without digging — worth every penny.” — Susan D., Anfield

“I didn’t realise pouring pasta water down the drain was a problem. Turns out the starch hardens and clogs over time. Learned the hard way!” — Mark, Kensington

FAQs: Blocked Drains in Liverpool Homes

1. Why are blocked drains so common in Liverpool?

A mix of older plumbing systems and heavy rain makes Liverpool particularly vulnerable to blockages.

2. How much does a drain unblocker in Liverpool cost?

Usually between £80–£150, depending on the issue and urgency.

3. Can I use chemical drain cleaners?

It’s best to avoid them — they can damage pipes and aren’t eco-friendly.

4. What’s the best DIY way to clear a minor blockage?

Try a mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by boiling water. Use a plunger or drain snake if needed.

5. How do I know if I need a drain repair?

If blockages keep returning or you hear gurgling noises, a repair or inspection may be needed.

6. Are outside drain blockages my responsibility?

If it's within your property line, yes. Shared or public drains are handled by United Utilities.

7. Do Liverpool landlords have to fix blocked drains?

Yes, unless the tenant caused it through misuse. Always check your tenancy agreement.

8. Are CCTV drain surveys worth it?

Absolutely. They give clear visibility into what’s going on underground.

9. How can I prevent drain blockages?

Avoid flushing non-flushables, don’t pour grease down the sink, and clean drain covers regularly.

10. Can I call a drain company for a minor clog?

Yes. It’s often cheaper (and safer) in the long run to let a pro handle it.

Final Word

Blocked drains can be a nightmare — but they don’t have to be. Once you understand what causes them and how to prevent them, you're already ahead of the game.

So whether it’s a simple clog or a bigger issue, don’t wait until water’s pooling around your ankles. Call a trusted drain unblocker in Liverpool and get peace of mind.

Your pipes (and your sanity) will thank you!

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