Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While many of us try to solve the problem on our own, some stubborn blockages require professional help. In this article we’ll look at the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains on your own versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages are easily cleared by simple methods at home
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the right tools on your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY techniques for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling water, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to clear a blocked drain?
Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you are noticing any of the following signs You can try these techniques prior to calling experts:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If the water isn’t moving down the drain in the same speed the way it is supposed to then there might be a minor blockage. Make use of a plunger remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your bathtub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair which is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes as a result of an obstruction, it can cause popping sounds as water flows through into the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some effective ways that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mixing Baking Soda with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the blockage by suctioning the blockage material out of the drain directly.
When is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried every DIY strategies, and the issue persists you need to call in professionals. Here are a few scenarios which require the assistance of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The root cause of the blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. Hiring a team of professionals guarantees that they will be able to find and fix any underlying issues.
The age of the Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and external factors. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler options like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you don’t wish to risk injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Routine maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages altogether.
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 employ the most advanced equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure top-quality results without problems.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water at specific angles suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside look at the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to fix specific problems efficiently.
Our licensed professionals will efficiently work on site while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the job is 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
What can I do to determine whether I require professional assistance to unblock a clogged drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success is it time to seek professional help. Other signs include slow draining sinks and odors that smell foul coming from drains, noises of gurgling or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in removing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY strategies before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you get the most effective and safe solutions, without exposing yourself or your environment to danger.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could cause long-lasting damage including water damage, burst pipes, mold growth, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers employ various 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 particles.
What is the cost to contract a plumbing company similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on the severity of the blockage is, which kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes), and how accessible your drainage system is. It’s best to contact us at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial evaluation over the phone or set up an appointment so we can figure out what options will work best for your particular situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation in the dark, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Examining Root Sources of Drain Clogs
- Keeping Costly Drain Repairs at Bay with Routine Inspections
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- DIY Hacks: Your Quick Guide to Clearing Blocked Drains
- When to Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- Begin with Clean Plumbing for a Spotless Home: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
- Learning High Pressure Drain Cleaning Thoroughly
- The Importance of Regular Pipe Relining for Homeowners
- Clogged Shower Drain? Learn Methods to Fix it with The subsequent Comprehensive Manual
- How to Clear Blocked Drains in Your Home
