Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While many of us try to resolve the issue on our own however, there are some blockages that need professional help. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling the water Baking Soda
What is the best time to clean a blocked drain?
Some minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you spot any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these methods before calling in experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water isn’t going down the drain in the same speed the way it is supposed to there could be a small blockage. Make use of a plunger eliminate any debris blocking the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
A strong smell emanating from your bathtub or sink may indicate that food or hair that is causing the obstruction. Pour boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Noises of gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes due to the blockage, it produces the sound of bubbling as water flows through into the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solutions, followed by vinegar can unclog any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to clear more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning the blockage material out of the drain directly.
When is it time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques, but the blockage still persists It’s time to seek out professionals. Here are some instances where you need the help of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The root cause of your blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. Engaging a team of experts will ensure that they are able to identify and resolve any issues that are underlying.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and external influences. A professional can tell if your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler solutions like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials like broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, consider confiding this task to qualified experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV examinations can stop blocking completely.
Why should you choose Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for Professional Assistance?
Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We use advanced techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause problems.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues effectively.
Our certified experts can be on site efficiently, while maintaining social distancing during these Covid times while cleaning up once the job is done.
| 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 Question
How can I tell if I need professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY techniques like plunging the drain and using cleaning products but have not had any success Then it’s time to seek professional help. Other indicators include sinks that don’t drain as quickly, foul odors coming from drains, gurgling sounds, and water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY strategies before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you will receive secure and efficient solutions that aren’t exposing yourself or your environment to risk.
Can blocked drains cause any lasting damage to my property?
In fact, water drains that are blocked can cause long-lasting damage like water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snakes that clear obstructions by cutting or breaking up debris.
How much will it cost to hire a plumbing company like Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on aspects like how bad the obstruction is, what kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g., Snaking or hydro-jetting), and how accessible you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call our team at Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for an initial assessment over the phone or make an appointment to ensure that we can determine what solutions are most appropriate for your particular situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- The Risks of Unclogging Your Drains Without Professional Help
- Easy Methods to Fix a Blocked Pipe: Tips and Tricks
- Exploring the Factors that Result in Blocked Drains
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Solutions and Tips
- Mastering High Pressure Drain Cleaning Completely
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
