DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common problem for homeowners and can be caused by various items, such as hair soap scum grease or the roots of trees. Although many individuals opt for fixing the issue by themselves, there are times that it is better to seek help from professionals. In this article, we will talk about the times when you should DIY drain cleaning and when you should solicit help from professional plumber.

Key Takeaways

• Slow draining, gurgling noises and a foul smell indicate the need to wash your drain.
• Boiling baking soda, water, plunger along with drain snake, are DIY methods for clearing an obstruction in drains.
• Always read the directions and use gloves in attempting DIY techniques.
• Get help from a professional Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney plumber if there are multiple clogs but no improvement after DIY attempts or blocked drains that are not visible due to external factors like tree roots.
• The experts conduct CCTV drainage inspections to find specific blockage location preventing unnecessary repair cost.

A Sign Your Drain Needs Cleaning

Before starting your cleaning routine, you must be aware of whether your drain should be cleaned at all. Here are some signs that tell you your drain is in need of attention:

Slow Draining

If you find that your water has taken longer than usual for it to drain or does not drain at all, it’s time to examine. A slow draining shower or sink shower could indicate that there’s a blockage forming in your pipes.

Gurgling Noises

The sounds of drains gurgling are usually a sign of air that has gotten trapped in the plumbing system. It could cause obstructions and should be addressed as quickly as possible.

Foul Odors

The buildup of organic matter could create unpleasant odors that emanate into your plumbing. If you’re smelling something strange emanating from your sink or shower, it’s the time to get your bathroom cleaned.

When To DIY Drain Cleaning

There are a variety of methods for clearing a blockage in a drain you can attempt at your own pace:

Boiling Water

Boiling water dissolves most organic material causing blockages in pipes, but it cannot be employed in conjunction with PVC pipes.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

The combination of baking soda and vinegar reacts, producing fizzing acids that cause the clogs that are stubborn to break up. Pour boiling water over them for optimal results.

Plunger

Plungers can be a boon for minor obstructions, particularly for blocked sinks or toilets but ensure that there’s no chemical residues present in the fixture prior to using the plunger.

Drain Snake

If you believe that the blockage may be stuck within a few inches the bowels, you may use drain snakes. Simply insert it and gradually turn pushing it outwards until the obstruction is removed.

When you attempt any DIY cleaning techniques, make sure to be sure to read the directions carefully and wear protective gear like gloves where necessary.

When To Call a Professional

Although DIY solutions can work in certain situations however, there are times when you need the assistance of an experienced Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney plumber:

Multiple Clogs

If you notice that multiple drains in your home backup over time, don’t attempt to fix the issue yourself. It could be because of issues with your main sewer line that require the expertise of a professional plumber.

There is no improvement after DIY attempts.

When you’ve attempted everything you’re not getting results or if there is recurring blockages, there may be more serious plumbing issues that require expert help prior to significant damage occurring.

Unseen Blockages

Sometimes external entities like tree roots can cause blockages that do not get noticed until the issue grows to be a major issue. Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the specific clog location eliminating unnecessary repair costs through tackling the issue without a guesswork.

Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.

FAQs

How can I tell what I should do if I have to call the services of a licensed plumber?

If you’ve tried a variety of DIY ways but your drain remains blocked, it’s time to bring in the professionals. Signs that you should call plumbing experts include repeated obstructions, slow drainage, bubbling in the sink or toilet when water comes through a different source, and unpleasant odors emanating from your drains.

Are there any risk involved in trying to unblock me own sewer?

It’s true that trying to unblock your drain on your own can result in more harm than good. Harsh chemicals and improper tools could cause damage to pipes, which can lead to costly repairs later on. Additionally, if a blockage is not dealt with properly, it could cause sewage backups and potential health risks.

Which are the best DIY methods to clear my drain?

Some DIY methods for clearing drains include using plumbing snakes or a plunger pouring boiling hot liquid down the drain, or making a mix of baking soda with vinegar. While these strategies may work for minor clogs, it’s important to be careful when attempting them.

Can I use chemical drain cleaners on my own?

While chemical drain cleaners can initially work, they may affect older pipes and cause them to weaken. In addition, many chemical cleaners contain harsh substances that can be harmful to humans as well as pets.

Why should I pick Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for my blocked drains needs in Sydney ?

At Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney , we specialize in clearing blocked drains efficiently and cost-effectively. Our team of trained professionals utilizes the most advanced technology in CCTV inspection cameras and hydro jetting equipment to pinpoint and solve your issues while leaving your property clean and clutter-free. Plus, as a local company servicing Sydney , we’re always close by should you experience any plumbing emergencies!

Conclusion

There are occasions when the DIY approach works effectively in cleaning drain clogs. However experts have the experience and the tools to identify underlying problems preventing future troubles ensuring optimal cleanliness always. If these professionals seem to be the kind of service you need for the best sanitary conditions and their expertise, contacting them may be your best option. Call the Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney plumbers for timely efficient solutions with no fuss or stress on your part.

Additional Information

• Experience these tried and tested remedies for unclogging your drain
• Keep Your Drains Clear: A Decade of Tips to Prevent Clogs at Home
• Clearing Your Pipe: High-quality Drainage Solutions
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
• Locate the most reliable plumber for your backed up drain issue
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
• Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally
• From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
• From A to Z Tips for Cleaning Your Drains and Maintaining a Clog-Free Home
• 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services