Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our daily lives. While most of us try to solve the problem by ourselves but some blocked drains need professional help. In this post, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages are easily cleared by simple methods at home
- Before trying any of the solutions make sure you have the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling water, Baking Soda
What is the best time to clear a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the following signs, you could try using these methods prior to calling professionals:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water isn’t going down the drain as swiftly that it would, then there might be a minor blockage. Use a plunger to push out any debris blocking the drain.
Unpleasant odors
A sour smell coming from your bathtub or sink may indicate that food or hair, causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar in the bathtub or sink to eliminate any residue.
The sound of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to the blockage, it produces bubbling sounds as water goes down the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solution in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove the food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution ensure you have the correct tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mixing Baking Soda and Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to prevent more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the blockage by suctioning the material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and the problem persists, then it’s time to involve an expert. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The root cause of your blockages might not have been fixed correctly. Engaging a team of experts makes sure that they find and correct any underlying problems.
Older Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and environmental factors. The experts can help you determine whether your plumbing system requires replacement or whether simpler options like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t wish to cause injury or damage to your pipes, consider leaving this job to certified professionals.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is always more beneficial to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing toiletries down the toilet, greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV examinations can stop obstructions completely.
Why Should You 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 equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an insight into what’s causing the problems within pipes, which allows us to address specific issues efficiently.
Our licensed professionals will work on-site efficiently while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the task 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
What can I do to determine whether I require professional assistance to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY techniques like plunges and drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results is it time to consult a professional. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from the drains, gurgling sounds, along with water backup.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners for clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY strategies before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. A professional plumber can ensure that you get the most effective and safe solutions, without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Can blocked drains cause any long-term damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains can result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage burst pipes, mold growth and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods that plumbers employ to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting or cutting up particles.
How much is it to engage a plumbing firm like Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on aspects like how bad the blockage is, which kind of method is needed for unblocking (e.g., hydro jetting or snaking) and how easily your drainage system is. Contact our team at Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone, or book an appointment so that we can determine what methods are best suited to your specific situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation in the dark, contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- The Most Complete Guide to Clearing Clogged Drains: What Plumbers Utilize
- Welcome to clear drains with these powerful remedies
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumbing Tips & Solutions
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- Fix Your Pipe with These Easy Methods: Tips and Tricks
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- End Clogged Pipes Now: Professional Tips to Try Immediately
