Got a blocked Toilet ?

Most Common Causes of Blocked Toilets in Adelaide – What To Do & How To Prevent Them

A blocked toilet is more than just an inconvenience. Left too long, it can cause overflowing water, unpleasant odours, and even health or structural problems. Whether it’s a once-off clog or a recurring headache, knowing why it happens and what to do next makes all the difference.

At Deadshort Services, we’ve been keeping Adelaide plumbing flowing for over 35 years. Our licensed, insured, and police-cleared plumbers know what goes wrong, how to fix it properly, and how to stop it happening again. Here’s our complete guide to blocked toilets in Adelaide.

Common Causes of Blocked Toilets in Adelaide

Toilets block for many reasons, but some are far more common than others.

Too Much Toilet Paper

Thick or excessive toilet paper doesn’t always break down quickly. It clumps in bends, traps other waste, and leads to blockages.

Non-Flushable Items

Wipes, nappies, sanitary products, cotton buds, and dental floss don’t dissolve in water. Even wipes labelled “flushable” can cause serious clogs.

Mineral and Scale Build-Up

Adelaide’s water often leaves mineral deposits inside pipes, narrowing passages over time. This makes it easier for small amounts of waste to block the system.

Tree Roots in Pipes

Older suburbs with clay or earthenware pipes are prone to root intrusion. Roots push into joints and catch debris until the line blocks completely.

Poor Plumbing Venting or Airflow

Blocked vent pipes or poor pipe slope prevent water from draining freely. You may notice bubbling, slow flushing, or gurgling noises.

Weak Flush or Faulty Cistern

Old cisterns, broken valves, or low water pressure mean the flush isn’t powerful enough to clear waste, leading to recurring blockages.

What To Do When Your Toilet Is Blocked

Before calling in a professional, you can try a few safe steps:

1. Use a plunger – A flange plunger can dislodge most soft blockages.

2. Try a toilet auger (snake) – Designed to reach deeper clogs that plunging can’t shift.

3. Avoid harsh chemicals – Many drain cleaners damage pipes and seals.

4. Call a licensed plumber – If the blockage persists, it’s time for expert help. Deadshort Services uses CCTV drain cameras to locate the exact cause and hydro-jetting to clear pipes thoroughly.

How Much Does a Blocked Toilet Repair Cost in Adelaide?

We believe in transparent pricing. At Deadshort Services, there are no call-out fees. Instead, we charge $150, which includes the first 30 minutes of on-site work.

• Simple blockages (toilet paper, wipes, or light debris) are often fixed within this time.

• Moderate blockages may take longer if a toilet auger or jetter is needed.

• Major issues (tree roots, collapsed pipes, or sewer line damage) require extra work or repairs, which we always quote upfront.

With Deadshort, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for: licensed plumbing, done right the first time.

Preventing Blocked Toilets – Long-Term Solutions

Most blockages can be prevented with a few simple habits:

• Flush only toilet paper — no wipes, nappies, or sanitary items.

• Teach kids not to flush toys or foreign objects.

• Keep your cistern in good condition — a strong flush clears waste more effectively.

• Schedule annual plumbing inspections for older Adelaide homes to check pipes and tree root growth.

• Ask us about CCTV drain inspections and preventative maintenance programs.

FAQ – Adelaide Toilet Blockages

Why does my toilet gurgle when I flush?
Usually this points to a venting or airflow issue. Our plumbers can check vents and adjust pipework to restore proper flow.

Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?
No. They rarely clear stubborn clogs and can damage pipes, seals, and the environment. Professional jetting is safer and more effective.

Can tree roots really cause repeated toilet blockages?
Yes. Across Adelaide’s older suburbs, tree roots are one of the most common causes of recurring sewer blockages.

How long does a toilet unblocking take?
Most blockages are cleared within 30–60 minutes. More complex issues in sewer lines take longer but are always quoted before work begins.

Will my insurance cover damage from a blocked toilet overflow?
Insurance usually won’t cover misuse (like flushing wipes). Regular maintenance and using a licensed plumber helps keep your policy valid.

Why Choose Deadshort Services for Blocked Toilet Repairs in Adelaide

• Over 35 years of plumbing experience across Adelaide homes, apartments, and commercial properties

• Licensed, insured, and police-cleared plumbers you can trust

• Total plumbing ans gas coverage for hot water repairs/ replacements, tap repairs , rain water systems, home filtration and more

• Transparent pricing with no call-out fees

• Lifetime workmanship warranty on all workmanship

• Fast emergency response across Adelaide suburbs, check out our suburb coverage here

• One Number. One Call. Multiple Trades. – the Deadshort Services multi trades advantage check us out here. 

Final Word – Don’t Let a Blocked Toilet Ruin Your Day

Blocked toilets won’t clear themselves — and waiting too long risks major water damage. With Deadshort Services, you get a licensed Adelaide plumber who will arrive on time, fix the problem properly, and back every job with a lifetime warranty.

Need help now? Call us today for fast, same-day toilet repairs anywhere in Adelaide.

 Emergency Blocked Toilet Repairs in Adelaide

Toilets never block at a convenient time. Whether it’s late at night, early in the morning, or during a weekend gathering, an overflowing toilet can’t wait.

At Deadshort Services, we provide true 24/7 emergency blocked toilet repairs right across Adelaide. Our licensed plumbers arrive quickly, fully equipped with CCTV drain cameras and hydro-jetting gear to clear even the toughest blockages on the spot.

With over 35 years of experience and a lifetime workmanship warranty, you can rely on us to get your toilet flowing again safely, legally, and without hidden costs.

One Number. One Call. Multiple Trades.