Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our daily life. Although most of us attempt to resolve the issue by ourselves, some stubborn blockages require professional assistance. In this article we will discuss the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home
- Before you attempt any solution ensure you have the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
How do you clean a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be removed using simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these techniques prior to calling professionals:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water isn’t going down the drain as swiftly as it should, there may be a slight blockage. Make use of a plunger get rid of any debris blocking the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub can suggest trapped food or hair, causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar into the bathtub or sink to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows down in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water followed by vinegar can unclog any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the proper tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will help melt away solids like soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda and Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to remove obstructions that are more severe when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning the material out of the drain directly.
When is it the best time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the problem persists the issue is time to engage professionals. Here are some instances where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of your blockages may not have been fixed correctly. Engaging a team of experts guarantees that they will be able to find and correct any underlying problems.
The age of the Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. The experts can help you determine whether your pipeline needs replacement, or if more simple options like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you don’t wish to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always better to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. A regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes like refraining from flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages completely.
Why should you choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We use the most modern techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure excellent results, with no problems.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with the insider’s view of the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues effectively.
Our certified experts will efficiently work on site while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid times while cleaning up after the work is done.
| Signs of Minor Blockage | DIY Methods | Instances Requiring Professional Assistance |
|---|---|---|
| Slow draining sinks or bathtubs | – Boiling Water – Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture – Drain Snake or Auger – Wet/Dry Vacuum |
– Recurring Blockages – Age of Plumbing System – Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials |
| Unpleasant odors | – Boiling Water mixed with Vinegar | |
| Gurgling noises | – Baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar |
FAQs
How can I tell whether I require professional assistance to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY methods like plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success is it time to seek professional help. Other indicators include sinks that don’t drain as quickly as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, loud gurgling sounds as well as water back-up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to removing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY techniques before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. A professional plumber can ensure that you get the most effective and safe solutions, without exposing yourself or your environment to danger.
Are blocked drains causing any permanent damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage cracking pipes, growth of mold as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are some methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams as well as drain snakes that clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking down pieces of debris.
What is the cost to contract a plumbing company like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear the drain that is blocked depends on the severity of the blockage is, what kind of process is needed to clear the blockage (e.g. hydro jetting or snaking) and how easily your drainage system is. It’s best to contact us at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial review over the phone or schedule an appointment so that we can determine what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Say Goodbye to Blocked Drains: 10 Preventive Measures for Your Home
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- Expert Best Picks for Clearing Pipes: A Comprehensive Manual
- Uncovering the Main Causes of Blocked Drains
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Expert Tips on Choosing the Best Pipe Relining Material
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Discover the perfect plumber for your clogged drain crisis
- Effective Tips for Unclogging Your Drains and Keeping a Blockage-Free Home
- How to Detect a Blocked Drain in Your Home or Business
- Self-Help Methods for Unclogging Clogged Drains in Your Home
