Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue which can affect our daily life. Although most of us attempt to resolve the issue on our own but there are certain blockages that require professional help. In this article we will look at the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be removed with simple home remedies
- Before beginning any work ensure you have the right tools on your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
How do you clean a blocked drain?
Some minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these techniques prior to calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing through the drains as quickly that it would, then there might be a tiny blockage. You can try using a plunger push out any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
The smell that is emanating from your tub or sink could indicate food debris or hair which is causing the obstruction. Pour boiling water with vinegar into your sink or bathtub to dissolve any residue buildup.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes because of an obstruction, it can cause popping sounds as water flows through into the drain. Baking soda and a hot water followed by vinegar can unclog any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some typical DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project ensure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into your sink can help melt off solids such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mix Baking Soda and Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove larger blockages if plungers and boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
Is it time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the blockage still persists the issue is time to involve an expert. Here are a few scenarios where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause for your blockages may not have been dealt with correctly. Engaging a team of experts will ensure that they are able to identify and resolve any issues that are underlying.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to wear and environmental factors. Professionals can assess whether your pipeline needs replacement, or if more simple solutions like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t wish to be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes, think about leaving this job to certified professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances leaking into sinks and 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 within Sydney . We employ the most advanced technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee top-quality results without problems.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water at specific angles suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside look at the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to deal with specific issues effectively.
Our experts who are licensed will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the work 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 |
Common Questions and Answers
How do I know whether I require professional assistance to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY solutions like plunging and using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success, then it’s time to seek professional help. Other signs include sinks that don’t drain as quickly as well as odors of foul smells emanating from the drains, gurgling sounds, or water back up.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for the removal of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are toxic and can be harmful to you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY methods before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you are getting the most effective and safe solutions, without placing yourself or the environment to harm.
Do blocked drains cause permanent damage to my home?
The truth is that blocked drains can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage burst pipes, mold growth in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can prevent costly damage.
What are some methods used by plumbing professionals to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting or cutting up debris.
How much is it to contract a plumbing company similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors like how serious the blockage is and what kind of technique is required for clearing the obstruction (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how accessible you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call one of our representatives at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial assessment over the phone or schedule an appointment so that we know what methods are best suited to your specific situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain problem unsolved, call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- DIY Hacks: Your Quick Guide to Clearing Blocked Drains
- CCTV Drain Inspection: A Cost-Effective Solution for Unblocking Blocked Drains
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- Finding & Identifying a Clogged Drain: Tricks and Techniques
- Clean Your Clogged Shower Drain the Green Way without Chemicals
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Mastering Plumbing Remedies for Persistent Clogged Pipes
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- Examining Root Sources of Drain Clogs
