Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue which can affect our daily life. While many of us try to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional assistance. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be removed with simple home remedies
- Before attempting any solutions, make sure you have the right tools on fingertips: plunger, gloves or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY techniques for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling water, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to clean a blocked drain?
Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you observe any of the following symptoms You can try these methods before calling in experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water is not going down the drain as fast that it would, there might be a tiny blockage. Try using a plunger to push out any debris blocking the drain.
The smells are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your bathtub or sink may indicate that food or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Gurgling noises
When air gets trapped in your pipes because of the blockage, it produces bubbling sounds as water goes down into the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water, as well as vinegar to unblock any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the right tools on fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some proven methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in the sink will help melt away solids like soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to clear larger blockages if plungers or boiling water fail.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the issue persists It’s time to call in a professional. Here are some instances that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The root of your blockages may not have been addressed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals ensures that they can uncover and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Older Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage caused by wear and external factors. Professionals can assess whether your plumbing system requires replacement or more straightforward solutions such as hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you don’t wish to cause injury or damage to your pipes, think about confiding this task to qualified experts.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. A regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing toiletries into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blocking completely.
Why Choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We use the most modern technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside view of the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues correctly.
Our licensed professionals will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the work has been completed.
| 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 can I tell whether I require professional assistance to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY methods like plunging or using drain cleaning products but have not had any success is it time to seek professional help. Other signs include slow draining sinks as well as odors of foul smells emanating from the drains, gurgling sounds, as well as water back-up.
Is it safe to make use of chemical drain cleaners for clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY techniques before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you receive secure and efficient solutions that aren’t the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains could cause serious damage over the long term including water damage, burst pipes, mold growth, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are the methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down debris.
How much will it cost to engage a plumbing firm like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors such as how severe the blockage is, which type of procedure is required for unblocking (e.g. hydro jetting or snaking) and how accessible your drainage system is. It is recommended to call us at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial evaluation over the phone or schedule an appointment so we can figure out what options will work best for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Finding & Identifying a Clogged Drain: Tricks and Techniques
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumber Tips & Solutions
- What You Need to Know About Blocked Drains and How to Resolve Them
- Drain Maintenance 101: A Decade of Simple Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- Tips and Tricks for Fixing a Blocked Drain with Ease
- When to Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
