Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While we tend to try to fix the issue on our own however, there are some blockages that require professional help. In this post we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains on your own versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be removed with simple techniques at home
- Before attempting any solutions make sure you are equipped with the proper tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear obstructions in drains are Boiling the water Baking Soda
What is the best time to clear a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the following symptoms then you can try these techniques before calling experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as fast the way it is supposed to there could be a small blockage. Use a plunger to push out any debris blocking the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your bathtub or sink could indicate food debris or hair that is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Noises of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to the blockage, it produces popping sounds as water flows down to the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water and vinegar, you can clear any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project ensure you have the proper tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to remove 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 mixing Baking Soda along with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to clear more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking this material from the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and your blockage is still there It’s time to engage an expert. Here are a few instances where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root of your blockages may not have been properly addressed. The hiring of a professional team ensures that they can uncover the root of the problem and address it.
Age of Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and external influences. Professionals can assess whether your plumbing system requires replacement, or if more simple solutions like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require specialized care. If you don’t want risk injury or damage to your pipes, think about confiding this task to qualified experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains than fixing them. A regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent obstructions completely.
Why should you choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We utilize the latest techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure top-quality results without problems.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues efficiently.
Our licensed professionals will work on-site efficiently while 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
What can I do to determine if I need professional help 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 the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from drains, gurgling sounds, along with water backup.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are hazardous and harmful to both you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY methods before resorting to using potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you get the most effective and safe solutions, without placing yourself or the environment to harm.
Can blocked drains cause any long-term damage to my home?
Unblocking drains could cause serious damage over the long term like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods employed by plumbing professionals to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snakes that clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking up debris.
How much will it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear the drain that is blocked depends on factors such as how severe the obstruction is, what kind of method is needed to remove the blockage (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting), and how accessible you are to the drain system. Contact the team of Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial evaluation over the phone or make an appointment to ensure that we can decide which methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain problem unsolved, call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Seeking a plumber to solve your backed up drain issue? Here's how
- Methods to Unblock a Shower Drain: The Step-by-Step Fix Necessary
- The Comprehensive Handbook to Removing Blockages from Clogged Drains in Your Home
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- Expert Plumbers' Manual to Clogged Pipes
- An Easy DIY Guide to Unclogging Your Blocked Drains
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
