Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our everyday life. While we tend to try to solve the problem on our own but there are certain blockages that require professional help. In this article we will discuss the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before you attempt any solution make sure you have the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What is the best time to clean a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the following signs You can try these techniques before calling professionals:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water is not going through the drains as quickly that it would, there might be a tiny blockage. Try using a plunger to eliminate any debris clogging up the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Gurgling noises
When air gets trapped in your pipes due to the blockage, it produces bubbling sounds as water goes through into the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure that you are equipped with the appropriate tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will help melt away any solids, such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda and Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers or boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning this material from the drain in a direct manner.
When is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but the problem persists, then it’s time to engage an expert. Here are a few instances that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of the blockages could not have been dealt with correctly. Engaging a team of experts ensures that they can uncover and correct any underlying problems.
Age of Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage due to wear and other external elements. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler solutions like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances such as broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you don’t want cause injury or damage to your pipes confiding this task to qualified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always better to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making lifestyle changes such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages altogether.
Why Choose Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We utilize the latest technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water angled at specific angles, which are ideal to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside view of what’s causing the problems within pipes, allowing us to fix specific problems properly.
Our experts who are licensed will work on-site efficiently while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the job has been 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 & Answers
What can I do to determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY methods such as plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success is it time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining sinks and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, sounds of gurgling, as well as water back-up.
Can you safely use chemical drain cleaners for getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY methods before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you are getting safe and effective solutions without placing yourself or the environment to risk.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are the methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
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 that eliminate obstructions by cutting or breaking down pieces of debris.
How much is it to hire a plumbing company similar to Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon the severity of the blockage is, what kind of technique is required to remove the blockage (e.g., Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easily the drainage device is. It is recommended to call us at Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for an initial evaluation over the phone or schedule an appointment so that we know what alternatives are the most effective for your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- The Most Complete Guide to Clearing Clogged Drains: What Plumbers Utilize
- The Dangers of Neglecting a Blocked Drain and What You Should Do
- Delving into Reasons for Clogged Drains
- Why You Need CCTV Drain Inspection Services
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Welcome to clear drains with these powerful remedies
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos