Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. Although most of us attempt to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional help. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be removed with simple home remedies
- Before attempting any solutions make sure you are equipped with the proper tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains include Boiling water, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to unblock a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these methods before calling in experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water is not going down the drain as swiftly the way it is supposed to there could be a small blockage. Make use of a plunger push out any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink could indicate food debris or hair which is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
Noises of gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes because of the blockage, it produces bubbling sounds as water goes through in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solution as well as vinegar to unblock any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before trying any method, make sure you have the right tools on fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to your sink can aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain directly.
Is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but the blockage still persists you need to engage an expert. Here are some instances that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The root of your blockages may not have been properly addressed. Hiring a team of professionals will ensure that they are able to identify and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Older Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage due to wear and external influences. A professional can tell if the pipeline is in need of replacement or more straightforward solutions like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t want risk injury or damage to your pipes giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. A regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes such as refraining from flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid obstructions completely.
Why Choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We utilize the latest technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure quality results with no future problems.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us an inside look at what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues efficiently.
Our certified experts will be on-site quickly and efficiently, maintaining social distancing during these Covid times, while cleaning up after the work is done.
| 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 & Answers
How can I tell that I require help from a professional to unblock a blocked drain?
If you have tried basic DIY techniques like plunges and drain cleaning products but have not had any success, then it’s time to get professional assistance. Other signs include slow draining of sinks and odors that smell foul coming from drains, noises of gurgling along with water backup.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for removing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY strategies before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. A professional plumber can ensure that you will receive the most effective and safe solutions, without you or your family members to risk.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains could result in serious long-term damage such as water damage leaky pipes, the growth of mold as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time will prevent costly damages.
What are some of the methods employed by plumbing professionals to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate blockages by cutting through or breaking down particles.
What is the cost to engage a plumbing firm like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on aspects like how bad the obstruction is, what type of procedure is required for unblocking (e.g. hydro jetting or snaking), and how accessible you are to the drain system. It’s best to contact one of our representatives at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial review over the phone or make an appointment to ensure that we can decide which methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Experience these proven solutions for unclogging your drain
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Don't Panic: Tips for Handling a Blocked Toilet
- Effective Tips and Tricks for Fixing a Blocked Drain
- The Comprehensive Handbook to Removing Blockages from Clogged Drains in Your Home
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Bid Farewell to Blocked Pipes: Straightforward Hacks to Follow
- The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
