Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. While we tend to try to resolve the issue by ourselves, some stubborn blockages require professional help. In this post we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be eliminated using simple home remedies
- Before beginning any work, make sure you have the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling the water Baking Soda
How do you unblock a drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you could try using these methods prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If the water isn’t moving down the drain as swiftly as it should, then there might be a tiny blockage. You can try using a plunger push out any debris that is clogging the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A strong smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could indicate food debris or hair, causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to dissolve any residue buildup.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes because of obstruction, it creates the sound of bubbling as water flows through in the drain. Baking soda and a hot water and vinegar, you can clear any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project, make sure you have the right tools on hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mix Baking Soda along with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate 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 all DIY methods, and the problem persists It’s time to engage a professional. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The root of your blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. Hiring a team of professionals makes sure that they find and fix any underlying issues.
Older Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to wear and external factors. Professionals can assess whether your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions such as Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you do not want to cause injury or damage to your pipes, consider giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Routine maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as not flushing toiletries in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages altogether.
Why choose Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for Professional Assistance?
Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We use advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an inside look at the root of the problem within pipes, allowing us to deal with specific issues properly.
Our licensed professionals will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping a social distance throughout these Covid times while cleaning up after the work has been 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 do I determine if I need professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning solutions with no success It’s time to consult a professional. Other signs include slow draining sinks and odors that smell foul coming from drains, noises of gurgling or water back up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in removing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY strategies before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you are getting reliable and safe solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Could blocked drains cause permanent damage to my home?
The truth is that blocked drains can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage cracking pipes, growth of mold as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can prevent costly damage.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down the pieces of debris.
How much is it to contract a plumbing company similar to Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on factors like how serious the blockage is, which kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g., the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how accessible to your drains are. We recommend contacting one of our representatives at Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for an initial assessment over the phone, or set up an appointment so we can figure out what alternatives are the most effective for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Why Your Business Needs Periodic Drain Inspection and Cleaning
- The Complete Handbook to Effortlessly Unclogging Your Clogged Drains DIY Style
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Investigating the Main Sources of Drain Clogs
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Regular Maintenance Routine
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
