Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While most of us try to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional help. In this article we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the appropriate tools at fingertips: plunger, gloves baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
Some minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you notice any of these signs You can try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water is not going down the drain as fast as it should, then there may be a slight blockage. Try using a plunger to get rid of any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Infuriating odors
A bad smell emanating from your tub or sink may indicate that food or hair causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to dissolve any residue buildup.
Noises of gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes because of obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows down to the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solutions, followed by vinegar can unclog any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution, make sure you have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will help melt away any solids, such as soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mixing Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers for larger blockages if 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 time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques but the problem persists It’s time to involve professionals. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of the blockages might not have been addressed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals makes sure that they find and correct any underlying problems.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions such as the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes confiding this task to qualified experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Routine maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV examinations can stop obstructions completely.
Why choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We employ the most advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an insight into the issues that are causing problems in pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues effectively.
Our experts who are licensed will be on-site quickly and efficiently, maintaining social distancing during these Covid times while cleaning up once 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
How do I determine when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning products but have not had any success, then it’s time to seek professional help. Other signs include slow draining of sinks and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, gurgling sounds, and water backup.
Can you safely use chemical drain cleaners for clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are hazardous and harmful to both you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY techniques before using potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you will receive reliable and safe solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to harm.
Can blocked drains cause any long-term damage to my property?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could result in serious long-term damage such as water damage the growth of mold, burst pipes, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are some techniques used by plumbers to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking up particles.
How much is it to hire a plumbing company similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors such as how severe the obstruction is, what kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easily you are to the drain system. We recommend contacting one of our representatives at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone or set up an appointment so we can figure out what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged issue untreated, call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- Uncovering the Main Causes of Blocked Drains
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Self-Help Methods for Unclogging Clogged Drains in Your Home
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- Ways to Confirm & Detect a Obstructed Pipeline
- Discover the perfect plumber for your clogged drain crisis
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- The DIY Guide: Clear Your Clogged Drains in No Time Flat
