Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue which can affect our daily lives. Although most of us attempt to resolve the issue by ourselves, some stubborn blockages require professional assistance. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe are easily cleared by simple methods at home
- 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 drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to remove a blockage from a drain?
Some minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you notice any of the following signs then you can try these methods before calling in experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water is not going down the drain as fast the way it is supposed to then there might be a tiny blockage. You can try using a plunger remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Infuriating odors
A strong smell emanating from your tub or sink may indicate that food or hair, causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
The sound of gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes because of obstruction, it creates popping sounds as water flows down the drain. Baking soda and a hot water, as well as vinegar to unblock any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure to are equipped with the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to help you 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 mixing Baking Soda and Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to prevent more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain directly.
Is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and the problem persists It’s time to engage professionals. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. The hiring of a professional team makes sure that they find the root of the problem and address it.
The age of the Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. The experts can help you determine whether your pipeline needs replacement or more straightforward options like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you don’t want cause injury or damage to your pipes, think about giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is always 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 developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspection can prevent blockages completely.
Why Should You Choose Local Sydney Blocked Drains for Professional Assistance?
Local Sydney Blocked Drains has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We employ the most advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause problems.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water at specific angles suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside look at the issues that are causing problems in pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues efficiently.
Our licensed professionals can be on site efficiently, while keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the task is complete.
| 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 if I need professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY techniques like plunging and using drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results, then it’s time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining of sinks, foul odors coming from the drains, noises of gurgling or water back up.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners for the removal of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive safe and effective solutions without you or your family members to harm.
Can blocked drains cause any long-term damage to my property?
The truth is that blocked drains can cause long-lasting damage like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods that plumbers employ to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods 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 is it to engage a plumbing firm similar to Local Sydney Blocked Drains for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing a blocked drain depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is, what type of procedure is required to clear the blockage (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes), and how accessible your drainage system is. We recommend contacting us at Local Sydney Blocked Drains for an initial assessment over the phone or set up an appointment so that we can determine what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain problem unsolved, call Local Sydney Blocked Drains today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Don't Let a Clogged Drain Put a Damper on Your Business: Get Regular Inspections
- CCTV Drain Inspections: The Key to Preventing Clogs and Other Plumbing Issues
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- The Ultimate Guide to Fixing a Clogged Toilet
- Start with Clean Plumbing for a Spotless Home: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
- Simple Ways to Clear a Clogged Pipe: Advice
- Resolve your clogged drain situation with the finest plumber available
