Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. Although most of us attempt to solve the problem on our own, some stubborn blockages need professional help. In this post we will look at the pros and cons of clearing blockages on your own or hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home
- Before beginning any work, make sure you have the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling water, Baking Soda
What is the best time to unblock a drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you observe any of the signs below then you can try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing through the drains as quickly that it would, there might be a tiny blockage. Make use of a plunger eliminate any debris blocking the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your tub or sink could indicate food debris or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar into your sink or bathtub to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Gurgling noises
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, followed by vinegar can unclog the food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure to have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into your sink can help melt away solids like 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 larger blockages if plungers or boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain directly.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the blockage still persists you need to call in an expert. Here are a few instances that require seeking professional expertise:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of your blockages might not have been fixed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals will ensure that they are able to identify the root of the problem and address it.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipeline needs replacement or more straightforward options like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances such as broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you don’t want be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes, consider giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is better to maintain drains than fixing them. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes such as refraining from flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blocking completely.
Why Choose Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for Professional Assistance?
Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We employ the most advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside look at the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues efficiently.
Our experts who are licensed will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments, and cleaning up once 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 |
FAQs
What can I do to determine that I require help from a professional to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY techniques like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results is it time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining sinks as well as odors of foul smells emanating from the drains, loud gurgling sounds along with water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in removing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY methods before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you get safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to risk.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could cause long-lasting damage such as water damage leaky pipes, the growth of mold in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time will avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods that plumbers employ to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines, which eliminate blockages by cutting into or breaking up particles.
How much will it cost to engage a plumbing firm similar to Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing a blocked drain depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is, what kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g. Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easy access to your drains are. It is recommended to call one of our representatives at Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for an initial evaluation over the phone or make an appointment to ensure that we know what options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Exploring the Factors that Result in Blocked Drains
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Solutions and Tips
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- Experience these tried and tested remedies for unclogging your drain
- Say Goodbye to Clogged Drains: Straightforward Tricks to Follow
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- A Comprehensive Overview of CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Home
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
