Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our daily life. While most of us try to fix the issue on our own however, there are some blockages that require professional help. In this post we will look at the pros and cons of clearing blockages on your own or having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home
- Before beginning any work, make sure you have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
How do you clean a blocked drain?
Some minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you spot any of the following symptoms then you can try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing through the drains as quickly as it should, then there might be a minor blockage. Make use of a plunger push out any debris blocking the drain.
Infuriating odors
The smell that is emanating from your tub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your sink or bathtub to break up any residue that has accumulated.
The sound of gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates bubbling sounds as water goes down the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water, followed by vinegar can unclog any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure that you have the right tools on hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mix Baking Soda along with Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
Is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques, but the issue persists It’s time to engage professionals. Here are some instances that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The root cause for the blockages could not have been fixed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals makes sure that they find and fix any underlying issues.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage caused by wear and other external elements. The experts can help you determine whether the pipeline is in need of replacement or whether simpler solutions such as the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you do not want to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, think about giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains than fixing them. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making lifestyle changes like refraining from flushing hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV examinations can stop blockages completely.
Why Should You Choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We employ the most advanced equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside look at what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to address specific issues correctly.
Our experts who are licensed will efficiently work on site while maintaining social distancing during these Covid times while cleaning up after the task 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 determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success is it time to consult a professional. Other signs include sinks that don’t drain as quickly 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 clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Could blocked drains cause lasting damage to my property?
In fact, water drains that are blocked can cause long-lasting damage including water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are the methods that plumbers employ to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines which clear blockages by cutting through or cutting up debris.
How much will it cost to engage a plumbing firm similar to Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on the severity of the obstruction is, what kind of method is needed for unblocking (e.g. Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how accessible you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call the team of Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial evaluation 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
- Effective Tips and Tricks for Fixing a Blocked Drain
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- The Comprehensive Handbook to Removing Blockages from Clogged Drains in Your Home
- Harnessing the Force of High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- DIY Plumbing Cleaning: Effective Tips for Avoiding Clogs in Your House
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Seeking a plumber to solve your backed up drain issue? Here's how
