Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue which can affect our daily lives. Although most of us attempt to fix the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains require professional assistance. In this post we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be cleared with simple methods at home
- Before you attempt any solution, make sure you are equipped with the proper tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY techniques for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
What is the best time to remove a blockage from a drain?
A few minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you notice any of these signs then you can try these methods before calling in experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water is not going down the drain as swiftly the way it is supposed to there may be a slight blockage. Try using a plunger to eliminate any debris clogging up the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A strong smell emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes as a result of the blockage, it produces popping sounds as water flows down the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water as well as vinegar to unblock the food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the proper tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when the mixture of Baking Soda along with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the obstruction by sucking the blockage material out of the drain directly.
Is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY strategies, and your blockage is still there, then it’s time to seek out the help of a professional. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of your blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. Engaging a team of experts ensures that they can uncover the root of the problem and address it.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipe requires replacement, or if more simple options like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances such as broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to cause injury or damage to your pipes, think about the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. A regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from forming. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspections, can avoid obstructions completely.
Why Choose Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for Professional Assistance?
Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We use the most modern technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause problems.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water at specific angles suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues correctly.
Our fully licensed experts will be on-site quickly and efficiently, ensuring social distancing throughout 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 and Answers
What can I do to determine if I need professional help to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY solutions like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results It’s time to get professional assistance. Other indicators include sinks that aren’t draining as fast and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, noises of gurgling as well as water back-up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before using potentially harmful chemicals. A professional plumber can ensure that you receive safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains could cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage the growth of mold, burst pipes and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time will avoid costly damages.
What are the methods that plumbers employ to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting into or breaking down obstructions.
How much does it cost to hire a plumbing company similar to Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on aspects like how bad the blockage is, which kind of technique is required for clearing the obstruction (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easy access your drainage system is. It is recommended to call one of our representatives at Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for an initial assessment over the phone or book an appointment so that we know what alternatives are the most effective for your situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Self-Help Approaches for Unclogging Clogged Drains in Your Home
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Regular Maintenance Routine
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- Maintain Your Pipes Flowing: Effective Tricks to Try Right Now
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- From Clogged to Clear: A Detailed Tutorial to Unblock Your Shower Drain
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Save You Money in the Long Run
- Top Plumbing Services to Keep Your Pipes Running Smoothly
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- Plumbers' Secrets for Clearing Clogged Drains: An In-Depth Guide
