Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While many of us try to tackle the issue on our own however, there are some blockages that need professional help. In this post, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains on your own versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be removed with simple methods at home
- Before beginning any work, make sure you have the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to unblock a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the following symptoms, you could try using these methods before calling in professionals:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as swiftly as it should, then there might be a minor blockage. You can try using a plunger remove any debris blocking the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
A sour smell coming from your bathtub or sink may indicate that food or hair, causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar in the bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Gurgling noises
When air is trapped inside your pipes as a result of a clog, it causes bubbling sounds as water goes through in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solution as well as vinegar to unblock the food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before trying any method be sure that you have the correct tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in the sink will help melt away any solids, such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to prevent larger blockages if plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the blockage by suctioning the blockage material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried every DIY strategies, and the problem persists, then it’s time to involve professionals. Here are a few situations where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause for the blockages might not have been addressed correctly. Engaging a team of experts makes sure that they find and resolve any issues that are underlying.
The age of the Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and external factors. Professionals can assess whether your plumbing system requires replacement or if simpler options like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances such as broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you don’t want to risk injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is better to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. A regular maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages altogether.
Why choose Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We use the most modern techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure excellent results, with no issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an inside view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues effectively.
Our licensed professionals will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up once the job 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 |
FAQ
How do I determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY methods like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success It’s time to get professional assistance. Other indicators include slow draining sinks and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, noises of gurgling or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in removing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY methods before resorting to chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to danger.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could result in serious long-term damage including water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines which clear blockages by cutting through or breaking down debris.
How much does it cost 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 obstruction is, what kind of process is needed to clear the blockage (e.g., Snaking or hydro-jetting), and how accessible you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call our team at Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone or book an appointment so that we know 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
- Why Your Business Needs Periodic Drain Inspection and Cleaning
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Expert Plumbers' Manual to Clogged Pipes
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- The Dangers of Neglecting a Blocked Drain and What You Should Do
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- The Guide to Finding & Pinpointing a Obstructed Pipe
