Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can cause disruption to our daily life. While we tend to try to fix the issue on our own, some stubborn blockages need professional help. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be eliminated using simple methods at home
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY techniques for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the signs below, you could try using these techniques prior to calling experts:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If the water isn’t moving through the drains as quickly that it would, there may be a slight blockage. You can try using a plunger eliminate any debris blocking the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could indicate food debris or hair that is causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to dissolve any residue buildup.
Noises of gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes because of an obstruction, it can cause the sound of bubbling as water flows through in the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water solutions, in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure to are equipped with the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by the mixture of Baking Soda along with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers for obstructions that are more severe when plungers or boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the obstruction by sucking this material from the drain directly.
Is it time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques, but the issue persists you need to involve the help of a professional. Here are a few scenarios where you need the help of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The cause of your blockages may not have been properly addressed. The hiring of a professional team ensures that they can uncover and correct any underlying problems.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and external influences. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler solutions such as hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you do not want to cause injury or damage to your pipes giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is better to maintain drains than fixing them. The regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV examinations can stop blocking completely.
Why choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We utilize the latest equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues properly.
Our experts who are licensed will be on-site quickly and efficiently, ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the work is completed.
| 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 can I tell when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a drain?
If you have tried basic DIY techniques like plunges and drain cleaning solutions with no success, then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include sinks that don’t drain as quickly, foul odors coming from the drains, gurgling sounds, along with water backup.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners for the removal of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you will receive safe and effective solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains could result in serious long-term damage like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines that eliminate blockages by cutting into or cutting up pieces of debris.
What is the cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is and what type of procedure is required to clear the blockage (e.g. hydro jetting or snaking) and how accessible to your drains are. 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 specific situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged problem unsolved, call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- How CCTV Drain Inspections Help Avoid Water Damage and Health Hazards
- Warning Signs You May Need a CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Commercial Property
- Becoming Proficient in Plumbing Remedies for Stubborn Clogged Drains
- Get rid of a Clogged Shower Drain with The subsequent Step-by-Step Tutorial
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Expert Best Picks for Clearing Pipes: A Comprehensive Manual
- How to Detect a Blocked Drain in Your Home or Business
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- Stop clogs easily with these incredible remedies
