Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our daily life. While most of us try to solve the problem on our own, some stubborn blockages need professional assistance. In this post we will discuss the pros and cons of clearing blockages on your own or hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple techniques at home
- Before you attempt any solution make sure you have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains include Boiling water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the signs below, you could try using these techniques before calling experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain in the same speed that it would, then there might be a tiny blockage. Make use of a plunger remove any debris blocking the drain.
Odors that are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your sink or bathtub could be a sign of food particles or hair which is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to dissolve any residue buildup.
Noises of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes because of obstruction, it creates bubbling sounds as water goes down the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project, make sure you have the right tools on hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to your sink can help melt away solids like soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques but the problem 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 root cause for the blockages could not have been addressed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals makes sure that they find the root of the problem and address it.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to wear and environmental factors. Experts can determine if your pipe requires replacement or more straightforward solutions such as the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals that require special attention. If you don’t want to risk injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is always better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. The regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes like eliminating the flushing of hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances in sinks, and having a 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 within Sydney . We use the most modern technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure quality results with no future problems.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water at specific angles suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside view of what’s causing the problems within pipes, allowing us to tackle specific issues properly.
Our fully licensed experts will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping a social distance throughout these Covid times, while 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know that I require help from a professional to unblock a clogged drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY techniques like plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success It’s time to consult a professional. Other signs include sinks that don’t drain as quickly or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from drains, gurgling sounds, and water backup.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before using potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you will receive the most effective and safe solutions, without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
The truth is that blocked drains could result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage, burst pipes, mold growth, sewage backup or even foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time will prevent costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting into or breaking down debris.
How much does it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon the severity of the blockage is and what kind of method is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g. Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easily the drainage device is. Contact one of our representatives at Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for an initial review over the phone or book an appointment so that we can determine what alternatives are the most effective for your particular situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged issue untreated, call Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Prevent Blocked Drains Now: Know the Common Causes
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
- Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally
- A Complete Handbook to Finding and Diagnosing Congested Drains
- Natural Remedies for Unblock Clogged Drains
- From Jammed to Clear: A Step-by-Step Manual to Unblock Your Bathroom Drain
- The Dangers of Neglecting a Blocked Drain and What You Should Do
- DIY Methods for Clearing Blocked Drains at Home
- Learn How to Effortlessly Unclog Your Clogged Drains with the Do-It-Yourself Guide
