Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue which can affect our daily life. Although most of us attempt to tackle the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that require professional assistance. In this post we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains on your own versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple methods at home
- Before attempting any solutions ensure you have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear obstructions in drains are Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
A few minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the signs below then you can try these techniques before calling experts:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If water isn’t going through the drains as quickly that it would, there might be a tiny blockage. Use a plunger to remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your tub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair that is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar in the bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Gurgling noises
If air becomes trapped in your pipes due to a clog, it causes the sound of bubbling as water flows down into the drain. Using baking soda and hot water, followed by vinegar can unclog any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions ensure you have the right tools on fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mixing Baking Soda along with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove obstructions that are more severe when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain in a direct manner.
Is it time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the issue persists you need to seek out an expert. Here are some instances which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of your blockages may not have been fixed correctly. Engaging a team of experts will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Age of Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage due to wear and other external elements. Professionals can assess whether your plumbing system requires replacement, or if more simple options like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass which require special care. If you don’t want to cause injury or damage to your pipes giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Regular maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes like refraining from flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blocking completely.
Why choose Local Sydney Blocked Drains for Professional Assistance?
Local Sydney Blocked Drains has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We use advanced technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues properly.
Our fully licensed experts will efficiently work on site while maintaining social distancing during these Covid moments, and 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
How can I tell if I need professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY techniques like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results It’s time to seek professional help. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, gurgling sounds, along with water backup.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY strategies before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you are getting safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
Unblocking drains could result in serious long-term damage like water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time will prevent costly damages.
What are some of the methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting or breaking down pieces of debris.
How much does it cost to engage a plumbing firm like Local Sydney Blocked Drains for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on the severity of the blockage is and what kind of method is needed for unblocking (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easily the drainage device is. We recommend contacting the team of Local Sydney Blocked Drains for an initial assessment over the phone, or schedule an appointment so that we know what options will work best for your situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation in the dark, contact Local Sydney Blocked Drains today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Are Vital for Efficient Drainage Systems
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- Start with Clean Plumbing for a Spotless Home: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
- Discover the Best Pipe Relining Materials for Your Plumbing Needs
- Benefits of Pipe Relining for Your Blocked Drains Problem
- Examining and Confirming a Blocked Drain: Measures to Take
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
