Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our daily life. Although most of us attempt to solve the problem by ourselves however, there are some blockages that require professional assistance. In this post we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages are easily cleared by simple strategies at home
- Before attempting any solutions ensure you have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the following symptoms then you can try these methods prior to calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water is not going down the drain as fast the way it is supposed to then there may be a slight blockage. Use a plunger to get rid of any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Infuriating odors
A strong smell emanating from your sink or bathtub can suggest trapped food or hair causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
The sound of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows through into the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water, as well as vinegar to unblock any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are the most common DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure that you have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some effective ways that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will help melt away solids like soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by the mixture of Baking Soda as well as Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers for more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the blockage material out of the drain directly.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the blockage still persists the issue is time to seek out a professional. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages could not have been properly addressed. Engaging a team of experts ensures that they can uncover and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Older Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and other external elements. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require specialized care. If you don’t want to cause injury or damage to your pipes, think about leaving this job to certified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Regular maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing toiletries down the drain, putting grease substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspection can prevent blockages completely.
Why Should You Choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We employ the most advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee excellent results, with no problems.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us an insight into what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues effectively.
Our experts who are licensed will work on-site efficiently while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the job 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 when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a blocked drain?
If you have tried basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success, then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include slow draining of sinks, foul odors coming from the drains, sounds of gurgling, or water back up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before resorting to making use of potentially harmful chemicals. A professional plumber can ensure that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Do blocked drains cause lasting damage to my property?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage the growth of mold, burst pipes in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time can prevent costly damage.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines which clear obstructions by cutting through or cutting up debris.
How much does it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing a blocked drain depends on factors like how serious the blockage is, what kind of method is needed to remove the blockage (e.g., hydro jetting or snaking) and how accessible you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call the team of Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial review over the phone or set up an appointment so that we can decide which options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Unclog Your Drains: Speedy Tricks to Try Out Right Now
- Don't Panic: Tips for Handling a Blocked Toilet
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- Drain Maintenance 101: A Decade of Simple Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- Clogged Shower Drain? Learn Methods to Fix it with The subsequent Comprehensive Manual
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumber Tips & Solutions
- What You Need to Know About Blocked Drains and How to Resolve Them
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- Save Money with These Simple Drain Maintenance Techniques
