plumber clearing blocked gully trap in Scullin Canberra

When a Scullin homeowner noticed slow drainage and water pooling near an outdoor gully trap, they called their local plumber Canberra team they trusted. Within hours, Brayden was on-site, diagnosing and clearing the blocked drains with precision and efficiency, leaving behind another satisfied customer and a 5-star review for professionalism and time management.

“Very professional & appropriate use of time.”


Problem

The homeowner reported a blocked gully trap, the outdoor drainage point that collects wastewater from the laundry and kitchen before it connects to the main sewer line. Over time, this trap had begun overflowing, indicating a blockage somewhere in the drain run. It was a classic blocked drain Canberra scenario that required prompt attention to prevent further damage.

This type of issue, if ignored, can quickly escalate into wastewater backflow or internal flooding, especially during heavy rain. Given the property’s long history of plumbing works, including past downpipe and stormwater repairs, the blockage risked recurring damage and further costs if not handled correctly.

Water Tight Canberra had previously serviced this address, so our records helped us approach the problem with context and efficiency.


Assessment

Upon arrival, Brayden performed a comprehensive inspection of the gully trap and nearby drain lines. Using professional drain cleaning and CCTV inspection equipment, he confirmed that the issue was caused by a fat and debris buildup within the line.

This type of obstruction is common in older Canberra homes where kitchen and laundry waste share the same line, and where slight pipe gradients allow grease to accumulate over time.

To ensure an accurate diagnosis, Brayden used the CCTV drain inspection camera, allowing him to visually confirm that the drain was clear and structurally sound after the blockage was removed, giving the homeowner peace of mind and a three-month warranty on the cleared section.


How Our Plumber Belconnen Team Solved the Issue

This Scullin job required both technical skill and attention to detail.

Here’s how Brayden tackled it step-by-step:

  1. Removed the gully grate and assessed the overflow point.
  2. Used an electric drain eel to break up and remove the blockage.
  3. Flushed the line thoroughly, ensuring all buildup was cleared.
  4. Deployed the CCTV drain camera to verify internal condition and confirm no cracks or root intrusions.
  5. Cleaned the work area and reinstalled the gully cover, ensuring proper water flow and surface drainage.

The entire process was completed within the 1.5-hour timeframe included in the Eel & CCTV Combo service.

Brayden’s clear communication and professionalism, from the first phone call to the final inspection, perfectly reflected our company’s commitment to efficient, transparent plumbing services.


Materials & Standards

Water Tight Canberra’s work always aligns with AS/NZS 3500 Plumbing and Drainage Standards to ensure reliability and safety.

The following professional-grade equipment was used:

  • Electric Eel Drain Cleaner – to mechanically break down and remove blockage material.
  • CCTV Drain Camera – for internal inspection and post-clean verification.
  • PPE & Safety Compliance Tools – for safe handling of wastewater and confined access.

Each section of the cleaned pipe was pressure-tested and flow-checked before completion to ensure compliance and long-term performance.


Results

Before: a partially blocked gully overflowing during use, with slow-draining wastewater pooling at the base.
After: a fully clear and free-flowing drain, inspected and confirmed with CCTV verification.

The result was immediate — improved flow, no overflow, and a happy homeowner who appreciated the professionalism and efficiency of the job.

“Very professional & appropriate use of time.”

That simple 5-star review says it all: another reliable and efficient result delivered by Brayden and the Water Tight Canberra team.


Tips

To prevent future drain blockages:

  • Avoid pouring fats, oils, or food scraps down sinks.
  • Schedule a professional drain clean every 12–24 months for older properties.
  • Keep gully traps free of debris and leaves, especially in storm season.

Location Notes – Scullin ACT

Homes in Scullin are known for their older sewer and stormwater layouts, often with shared gully connections. These setups make blockages more common, particularly from kitchen waste, garden runoff, and tree roots.

Our plumber Belconnen team regularly handles these issues with CCTV inspections and hydro-jetting, ensuring long-term reliability and flow efficiency across Scullin and the Belconnen region.

Contact Water Tight Canberra today on (02) 6195 9991. Whether you need an emergency plumber Canberra or thorough leak detection, we provide fast, reliable solutions across the ACT.


Gallery

Before: Blocked outdoor gully trap with visible water overflow and surface staining.
After: Drain cleared, gully cleaned, and water tested — all flowing freely with no further obstructions.

“Very professional & appropriate use of time.” — 5-Star Google Review

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