Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our daily life. While we tend to try to resolve the issue by ourselves however, there are some blockages that require professional assistance. In this article we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe are easily cleared by simple methods at home
- Before attempting any solutions ensure you are equipped with the proper tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling water, Baking Soda
How do you clear a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you are noticing any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these techniques before calling experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as fast like it ought to, there may be a slight blockage. Try using a plunger to push out any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A strong smell emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair which is causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Noises of gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows through in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solutions, and vinegar, you can clear the food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure that you have the right tools on disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some proven methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into the sink will help melt off solids such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to clear larger blockages if plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking this material from the drain in a direct manner.
When is it the best time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and the blockage still persists the issue is time to involve a professional. Here are a few situations that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The root cause for the blockages could not have been addressed correctly. Employing a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Older Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and external factors. Experts can determine if your pipe requires replacement, or if more simple solutions such as hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t wish to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is always better to maintain drains than fixing them. Routine maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making lifestyle changes like eliminating the flushing of hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspections can help prevent obstructions completely.
Why Should You Choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We use advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an inside look at what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues properly.
Our licensed professionals will be on-site quickly and efficiently, maintaining social distancing during these Covid times, while cleaning up after the job is complete.
| 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
How do I know if I need professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY techniques like plunging or using drain cleaning products but have not had any success is it time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from drains, noises of gurgling and water backup.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY methods before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you will receive safe and effective solutions without you or your family members to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any permanent damage to my home?
In fact, water drains that are blocked can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods employed by plumbing professionals to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate blockages by cutting through or breaking up obstructions.
How much will it cost to hire a plumbing company like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing a blocked drain depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is and what kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes), and how accessible your drainage system is. Contact the team of Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or set up an appointment so that we can determine what solutions are most appropriate for your particular situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- Effective Tips for Unclogging Your Drains and Keeping a Blockage-Free Home
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Wave Goodbye to Blocked Pipes: Simple Tricks to Apply
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- Stop clogs easily with these incredible remedies
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- Uncovering the Main Causes of Blocked Drains
- Becoming Proficient in Plumbing Remedies for Stubborn Clogged Drains
