DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional
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Clogged drains are the most common issue in homes and could be caused by a variety of items, such as hair, soap scum, grease or even tree roots. While many people opt for fixing the issue on their own but there are instances when it’s best to seek help from an expert. In this post, we’ll discuss when you should DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to solicit help from an experienced plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Slow draining, gurgling noises and foul odors are indicators that your drain is in need of cleaning.
- Boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, plunger, along with drain snake, are DIY ways to clear the drain.
- Always read instructions and use gloves when attempting DIY techniques.
- Get help from a professional Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney plumber if there are multiple clogs but no improvement following DIY efforts or blocked drains that are not visible due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections to identify an exact location of blockage, thus avoiding repair expenses.
The Signs that Your Drain Needs To Be Clean
Before you begin cleansing, you need be aware of whether your drain needs to be cleaned out in the first instance. Here are some indicators that indicate your drain needs attention:
Slow Drainage
If you notice that your water takes longer than usual for it to drain or does not drain completely, it’s time to examine. If your sink isn’t draining as fast as it should, or shower may indicate a blockage in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
A gurgling sound emanating from drains are usually a sign of air being trapped inside the plumbing system. It could cause obstructions and should be looked at as soon as it’s possible.
Foul Odors
The buildup of organic matter may create unpleasant odors that emanate through your drainage. If you’re experiencing a strange smell emanating from your bathroom 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 drain that you can attempt at your own pace:
Boiling Water
Boiling water can dissolve most organic material, which causes blockages in pipes, but it cannot be employed with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of baking soda and vinegar reacts and produces fizzing acid that causes the clogs that are stubborn to break up. Pour boiling water over them for flawless results.
Plunger
Plungers work wonders for small clogs, especially those that block sinks or toilets but ensure that there isn’t any chemical residues present within the fixture prior use of a plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears be stuck within a few inches it, you could utilize drain snakes; insert it and gradually turn pushing it forward until the obstruction is removed.
When attempting any DIY cleaning methods, always follow the instructions thoroughly and wear protective gear like gloves whenever necessary.
What to do when you need a Professional
While DIY methods may be effective in some cases, there are situations when you need the assistance of a professional Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home are backed up with time, don’t try to solve the problem yourself. It could be because of issues with the main sewer line, which require the skills of a professional plumber.
No improvement after DIY tries
In the event that you’ve tried all sorts of solutions and there is no solution or you’re experiencing frequent blockages, it could be more critical underlying plumbing issues that require expert help before major damages are caused.
Unseen Blockages
External factors like tree roots can cause blockages which go unnoticed until the problem is severe. Professionals perform CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the exact location of the blockage, cutting down on repair costs by solving the issue immediately without guesswork.
Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning | When To DIY Drain Cleaning | When To Call a Professional |
---|---|---|
Slow Draining | Boiling water | Multiple Clogs |
Gurgling Noises | Baking Soda and Vinegar | No Improvement After DIY Attempts |
Foul Odors | Plunger | Unseen Blockages |
Drain Snake |
Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.
Common Questions & Answers
What do I do to determine what I should do if I have to call a professional plumber?
If you’ve tried numerous DIY ways but your drain still remains clogged, it’s time to bring an expert in. The signs to call plumbing experts include repeated obstructions, slow drainage, bubbling from the sink or toilet in the event that water is coming through a different source, and unpleasant smells coming from the drains.
Are there any dangers to trying to unblock me own sewer?
If you try to clear the drain in your home can create more harm than it is. Harsh chemicals and improper tools could cause damage to pipes, which can lead to costly repairs in the future. In addition, if a blockage is not treated properly, it could cause the occurrence of sewage backups as well as health risks.
Are there any DIY ways to unblock my drain?
Some DIY methods for clearing drains involve using plumbing snakes or a plunger pouring boiling hot drinking water into the drainage, or making a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and baking soda. While these strategies may work in cases of minor clogs you should be cautious in attempting these methods.
Do I have to use chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners may perform initially, they may harm older pipes and weaken them. Additionally, many chemical cleaners contain harsh substances that can be harmful to both people and pets.
Why should I select Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney for my blocked drains requirements within Sydney ?
We are Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney , we specialize in clearing blocked drains swiftly and easily. Our team of trained professionals uses only the latest technology in CCTV inspection cameras as well as hydro jetting equipment to identify and solve your issues while leaving your property clean and free of clutter. Plus, as a local company servicing Sydney , we’re always nearby if you encounter any plumbing issues!
Conclusion
There are instances when the DIY method can be effective in cleaning the drains of clogs. But experts have the experience and equipment to evaluate underlying problems preventing future troubles and ensuring optimum cleanliness at all times. If these experts seem like the ideal solution for your home to have an optimally clean environment, seeking out their services is a good option. Call one of our Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney plumbers for timely efficient solutions with no fuss or worry on your part.
Additional Information
- Reducing the Risks of Drainage Problems: How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Help
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- Learn How to Effortlessly Unclog Your Clogged Drains with the Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Experience these tried and tested remedies for unclogging your drain
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Solutions and Tips
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- The Ultimate Guide to Fixing a Clogged Toilet