Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our daily lives. While we tend to try to tackle the issue on our own, some stubborn blockages require professional help. In this post, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be eliminated using simple techniques at home
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
How do you clear a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the signs below, you could try using these methods before calling in professionals:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water isn’t going down the drain in the same speed that it would, then there could be a small blockage. Make use of a plunger push out any debris blocking the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink could indicate food debris or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Noises of gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes due to a clog, it causes noises that bubble as water flows down to the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project ensure you have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring 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 the mixture of Baking Soda and Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to prevent more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the blockage by suctioning the material out of the drain directly.
When is it time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the issue persists the issue is time to seek out the help of a professional. Here are a few scenarios which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of the blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. The hiring of a professional team makes sure that they find and correct any underlying problems.
The age of the Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and external factors. Experts can determine if your pipe requires replacement or if simpler solutions like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specialized care. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, consider confiding this task to qualified experts.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Routine maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making lifestyle changes such as not flushing hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspections, can avoid obstructions completely.
Why Should You Choose Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for Professional Assistance?
Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We employ the most advanced techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee excellent results, with no problems.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us an inside view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, allowing us to tackle specific issues effectively.
Our fully licensed experts will work on-site efficiently while maintaining social distancing during these Covid times while cleaning up after the job 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 |
FAQ
What can I do to determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a drain?
If you have tried basic DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning products but have not had any success Then it’s time to get professional assistance. Other indicators include sinks that aren’t draining as fast, foul odors coming from the drains, sounds of gurgling, and water backup.
Can you safely use chemical drain cleaners for the removal of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY techniques before using potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
The truth is that blocked drains could cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage leaky pipes, the growth of mold, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods used by plumbing professionals to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down the obstructions.
How much does it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon 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 to your drains are. Contact one of our representatives at Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for an initial review over the phone or book an appointment so we can figure out what methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation in the dark, contact Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Locate the most reliable plumber for your backed up drain issue
- Say Goodbye to Clogged Drains: Straightforward Tricks to Follow
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
- Discover the Best Pipe Relining Materials for Your Plumbing Needs
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- From Jammed to Clear: A Step-by-Step Manual to Unblock Your Bathroom Drain
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally
- DIY Methods for Clearing Blocked Drains at Home