Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue which can affect our daily lives. While we tend to try to fix the issue on our own but some blocked drains require professional help. In this article we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains on your own versus seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple strategies at home
- Before you attempt any solution ensure you have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY methods for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling water, Baking Soda
How do you remove a blockage from a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you are noticing any of these signs You can try these techniques before calling professionals:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water isn’t going down the drain in the same speed the way it is supposed to there might be a minor blockage. Try using a plunger to eliminate any debris blocking the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair which is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to eliminate any residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes as a result of an obstruction, it can cause popping sounds as water flows through to the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solution and vinegar, you can clear any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before trying any method ensure you have the right tools on your disposal: gloves plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will help melt off solids such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mix Baking Soda and Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to prevent obstructions that are more severe when plungers or boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain directly.
When is the right time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but the issue persists you need to call in the help of a professional. Here are a few scenarios which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of your blockages might not have been properly addressed. Employing a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler options like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you do not want to be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always better to maintain drains than fixing them. Routine maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing toiletries into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blocking completely.
Why should you choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We use the most modern technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an insight into what’s causing the problems within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues effectively.
Our certified experts can be on site efficiently, while keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up once the job 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
How do I determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning products but have not had any success is it time to consult a professional. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from drains, sounds of gurgling, along with water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY techniques before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you are getting secure and efficient solutions that aren’t placing yourself or the environment to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains could cause serious damage over the long term like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time will prevent costly damages.
What are some of the methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines which clear blockages by cutting through or breaking up obstructions.
What is the cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on aspects like how bad the blockage is, which kind of process is needed for unblocking (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easy access to your drains are. We recommend contacting the team of Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial assessment over the phone or set up an appointment so we can figure out what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Importance of Regular Pipe Relining for Homeowners
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- The Most Complete Guide to Getting Rid of Blocked Pipes: Which Plumbers Utilize
- Don't Panic: Tips for Handling a Blocked Toilet
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
