Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our everyday lives. While we tend to try to solve the problem on our own however, there are some blockages that require professional assistance. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains on your own versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be cleared with simple home remedies
- Before trying any of the solutions ensure you are equipped with the proper tools at fingertips: plunger, gloves baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
What is the best time to clear a blocked drain?
Certain minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the signs below it is possible to try these techniques before calling professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If the water isn’t flowing through the drains as quickly the way it is supposed to there could be a small blockage. You can try using a plunger eliminate any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A sour smell coming from your bathtub or sink could indicate food debris or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Gurgling noises
If air becomes trapped in your pipes as a result of the blockage, it produces the sound of bubbling as water flows down to the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water and vinegar, you can clear any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into your sink can help melt off solids such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mixing Baking Soda as well as Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers for obstructions that are more severe when plungers and boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain directly.
Is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques but your blockage is still there you need to call in professionals. Here are a few instances that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The cause of your blockages may not have been addressed correctly. Employing a professional team ensures that they can uncover and correct any underlying problems.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. Experts can determine if your pipe requires replacement or whether simpler options like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you don’t want to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, consider confiding this task to qualified professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Routine maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages completely.
Why Choose Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Sydney . We utilize the latest techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee quality results with no future problems.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues efficiently.
Our experts who are licensed will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up after the work 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 Questions
What can I do to determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY techniques like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results Then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from the drains, sounds of gurgling, or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in removing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY methods before using potentially harmful chemicals. A professional plumber can ensure that you receive reliable and safe solutions without placing yourself or the environment to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any lasting damage to my property?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could result in serious long-term damage such as water damage leaky pipes, the growth of mold as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can avoid costly damages.
What are the methods that plumbers employ to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams as well as drain snakes that clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking down debris.
What is the cost to hire a plumbing company similar to Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on the severity of the blockage is, what kind of technique is required for unblocking (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how easily the drainage device is. It is recommended to call our team at Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone or book an appointment so we can figure out what options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Delving into Reasons for Clogged Drains
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
- End Clogged Pipes Now: Professional Tips to Try Immediately
- A Guide to Locating and Pinpointing a Obstructed Pipe
- Welcome to clear drains with these powerful remedies
- Secure the services of the best plumber for your blocked drain crisis
- The Fastest and Most Effective Solution: Blocked Drain Way to a Clearer System
- Common Drain Cleaning Mistakes You Need to Avoid
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
