DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common household problem that can be caused by various things, such as hair soap scum, soap grease and the roots of trees. Although many prefer fixing the issue by themselves however, there are occasions that you should call professionals. In this article, we will discuss when you should DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to get help from professional plumber.

Key Takeaways

• The slow draining, the gurgling sound, and foul odors indicate that your drain is in need of cleaning.
• Boiling baking soda, water, plunger and drain snake are DIY techniques to open an obstruction in drains.
• Always follow the instructions and wear a pair of gloves when attempting DIY techniques.
• Consult a licensed Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber if there are numerous clogs and no improvement even after DIY efforts, or unclear blockages caused due to external factors such as tree roots.
• Experts perform CCTV drainage inspections to find the exact blockage area, avoiding unnecessary repair costs.

Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning

Before beginning your cleaning routine, you need be aware of whether your drain requires to be cleaned out in the first instance. Here are some indicators that tell you your drain is in need of attention:

Slow Drainage

If you notice that water takes longer than usual or is taking longer to drain or does not drain at all, it’s time to investigate. The slow draining of your sink or shower could mean there is a blockage forming in your pipes.

Gurgling Noises

Gurgling sounds coming from drains are usually a sign of air that has gotten trapped in the plumbing system. It could cause obstructions and should be examined as soon as it is possible.

Foul Odors

The buildup of organic matter can create unpleasant odors that emanate out of your pipes. If you smell something funky emanating from your sink or bathtub, it’s time for cleaning.

Do-it-yourself drain cleaning is a good idea.

There are several methods of clearing a blockage in a drain you can try on your own:

Boiling Water

Boiling water can dissolve most organic materials, which can cause blockages to pipes but is not employed with PVC pipes.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

The combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts to produce fizzing acid, causing any blockages that remain stubborn to fall away up; pour boiling water over them for flawless results.

Plunger

Plungers can be a boon for minor blockages, specifically for blocked toilets and sinks, but make sure that there isn’t any chemical residues in the fixture before using the plunger.

Drain Snake

If the blockage appears to be wedged just at a distance of a few inches the drain, make use of drain snakes. Place it and gradually rotate while pushing it further until the obstruction disappears.

When you attempt any DIY cleaning methods, always take the time to study the instructions carefully, and wear protective clothing like gloves when needed.

What to do when you need for a Professional

Although DIY solutions can be effective in some cases, there are situations when you should consult a certified Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber:

Multiple Clogs

If there are multiple drains that within your home are backed up in time, don’t try to address this issue on your own. This could be due to problems within your main sewer line that require the expertise of a professional plumber.

No Improvement After DIY Attempts

In the event that you’ve tried all sorts of solutions there is no solution or if you’ve noticed persistent blockages, there could be more significant plumbing problems that require professional assistance prior to causing major damage.

Unseen Blockages

Sometimes external entities like tree roots could cause blockages, which do not get noticed until the issue grows to be a major issue. Professionals carry out CCTV drainage inspections pinpointing the location of the clog and saving you unnecessary repair costs by tackling the issue directly without guesswork.

Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.

FAQs

How do I know what I should do if I have to call the services of a licensed plumber?

If you’ve tried various DIY methods but your drain still remains clogged and clogged, you need to call the experts in. The signs to call plumbing experts include repeated obstructions, slow drainage, bubbling from the sink or toilet, when water comes from another source, and unpleasant smells coming from your drains.

Are there any risks to trying to unblock my own drain?

It’s true that trying to unblock your drain could cause more harm than beneficial. Harsh chemicals and improper tools can cause pipe damage, leading to costly repairs later on. If a blockage is not treated properly, it could lead to sewage backups and potential health risks.

Which are the best DIY techniques to free my drain?

A few DIY ways to unclog drains involve using a plumbing snake or plunger pouring boiling liquid down the drain, or mixing baking soda and vinegar. While these methods may work for minor clogs, it’s crucial to be cautious when attempting these methods.

Do I have to utilize chemical drain cleaners on my own?

While chemical drain cleaners could initially work, they may affect older pipes and cause them to weaken. Furthermore, many chemical cleaners contain harsh substances that can be harmful to humans as well as pets.

Why should I select Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for my blocked drains requirements in Sydney ?

At Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing , we specialize in unblocking blocked drains quickly and cost-effectively. Our expert team employs only the most modern techniques in surveillance cameras and hydro jetting machines to diagnose and efficiently solve your problems whilst leaving your property clean and tidy. As an local company that serves Sydney , we’re always close by should you experience any plumbing issues!

Conclusion

There are times when the DIY approach works effectively in cleaning drain clogs. However experts have the experience and tools to assess the root causes of issues, thus preventing any future problems ensuring optimal cleanliness always. If these pros seem like the ideal solution for your home to have the best sanitary conditions getting their help is a good option. Reach out to our Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing plumbers for timely effective solutions without any hassle or worries on your part.

Additional Information

• Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
• Harnessing the Force of High Pressure Drain Cleaning
• Dealing with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Tips and Solutions
• The Comprehensive Handbook to Removing Blockages from Clogged Drains in Your Home
• How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
• Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
• The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
• DIY Plumbing Cleaning: Effective Tips for Avoiding Clogs in Your House
• Identifying the Sources of Drain Obstructions
• Clean Your Clogged Shower Drain the Green Way without Chemicals