Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our daily life. While many of us try to tackle the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains need professional assistance. In this article we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be removed with simple techniques at home
- Before beginning any work make sure you have the right tools on hand: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to remove a blockage from a drain?
A few minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you notice any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water is not going down the drain in the same speed like it ought to, there may be a slight blockage. Use a plunger to eliminate any debris clogging up the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into the bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Gurgling noises
If air is trapped in your pipes due to an obstruction, it can cause noises that bubble as water flows through into the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water solution as well as vinegar to unblock any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are the most common DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions, make sure you have the right tools on fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will help melt off solids such as soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove obstructions that are more severe when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the blockage still persists, then it’s time to seek out a professional. Here are a few scenarios that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The root of the blockages could not have been properly addressed. Hiring a team of professionals makes sure that they find and correct any underlying problems.
The age of the Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage due to wear and environmental factors. The experts can help you determine whether your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler solutions like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you do not want to risk injury or damage to your pipes, consider giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always better to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as refraining from flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV examinations can stop blockages completely.
Why should you 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 techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure excellent results, with no issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water at specific angles suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us the insider’s view of the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues properly.
Our certified experts will efficiently work on site while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the task 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 |
FAQ
What can I do to determine if I need professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you have tried basic DIY techniques like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results is it the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from drains, sounds of gurgling, and water backup.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners for the removal of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is best to test other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
Unblocking drains can cause long-lasting damage like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods that plumbers employ to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting through or cutting up particles.
What is the cost to employ a plumbing service like Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors such as how severe the blockage is, which kind of technique is required for unblocking (e.g. hydro jetting or snaking) and how easily to your drains are. It is recommended to call our team at Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for an initial review over the phone or make an appointment to ensure we can figure out what methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain problem unsolved, call Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Plumbers' Secrets for Clearing Clogged Drains: An In-Depth Guide
- Top Tips for Keeping Your Drains Clog-Free
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Self-Help Approaches for Unclogging Clogged Drains in Your Home
- Why Your Business Needs Periodic Drain Inspection and Cleaning
- Investigating and Verifying a Blocked Pipe: Measures to Take
- Top Plumbing Services to Keep Your Pipes Running Smoothly
- Discover the ideal plumber for your clogged drain situation
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Tips & Solutions
