Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. Although most of us attempt to resolve the issue by ourselves, some stubborn blockages need professional help. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before trying any of the solutions, make sure you have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY techniques for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling the water Baking Soda
What is the best time to clean a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you are noticing any of the following signs it is possible to try these techniques prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water is not going through the drains as quickly that it would, there could be a small blockage. You can try using a plunger get rid of any debris blocking the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A strong smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could indicate food debris or hair, causing the obstruction. Pour boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
The sound of gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes as a result of the blockage, it produces the sound of bubbling as water flows through in the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water solutions, followed by vinegar can unclog 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 are equipped with the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in your sink can help melt away solids like soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mixing Baking Soda with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers for larger blockages if plungers or boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain directly.
Is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques, but the issue persists, then it’s time to involve the help of a professional. Here are a few instances where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. The hiring of a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Older Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and external factors. Professionals can assess whether your pipe requires replacement, or if more simple solutions like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you don’t want be at risk of 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. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing hygiene products down the drain, putting grease substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV examinations can stop blockages altogether.
Why Choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We use the most modern technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water at specific angles suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to address specific issues efficiently.
Our experts who are licensed will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during 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 |
FAQ
How do I know that I require help from a professional to unblock a clogged drain?
If you have tried basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning products but have not had any success It’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include slow draining sinks as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, noises of gurgling or water back up.
Can you safely use chemical drain cleaners for getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY strategies before using potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive secure and efficient solutions that aren’t you or your family members to risk.
Can blocked drains cause any lasting damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage, burst pipes, mold growth and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods that plumbers employ to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting or breaking down the particles.
How much is it to hire a plumbing company like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing a blocked drain depends on aspects like how bad the blockage is and what kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how accessible your drainage system is. It’s best to contact the team of Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial review over the phone or schedule an appointment so that we can determine what options will work best for your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Inspecting Drains Using CCTV to Detect Root Infiltration: Benefits for Property Owners
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Don't Let Blocked Pipes Ruin Your Routine: Efficient Drainage Remedies
- The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
- DIY Methods for Clearing Blocked Drains at Home
- Seeking a plumber to solve your backed up drain issue? Here's how
- Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Identifying the Sources of Drain Obstructions
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
