Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our daily lives. While we tend to try to solve the problem by ourselves, some stubborn blockages require professional assistance. In this article we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains on your own versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple strategies at home
- Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
How do you unblock a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If water isn’t going down the drain as fast like it ought to, there might be a tiny blockage. Use a plunger to get rid of any debris blocking the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A strong smell emanating from your tub or sink could indicate food debris or hair which is causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
Gurgling noises
If air becomes trapped in your pipes as a result of the blockage, it produces noises that bubble as water flows through the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solutions, in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions ensure you have the right tools on disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mixing Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to clear larger blockages if plungers and boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain in a direct manner.
Is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and the blockage still persists, then it’s time to call in 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 addressed correctly. Employing a professional team guarantees that they will be able to find and correct any underlying problems.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage caused by wear and other external elements. A professional can tell if your pipe requires replacement or whether simpler solutions such as the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t want be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes, consider giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Routine maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing toiletries in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages completely.
Why should you choose Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Sydney . We use advanced technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us the insider’s view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to address specific issues properly.
Our certified experts will efficiently work on site while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the work 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 Questions
What can I do to determine whether I require professional assistance to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY methods like plunges and drain cleaning products but have not had any success Then it’s time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining of sinks, foul odors coming from drains, noises of gurgling and water backup.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY strategies before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. A professional plumber can ensure that you will receive reliable and safe solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to harm.
Could blocked drains cause lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains can cause long-lasting damage including water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can prevent costly damage.
What are the methods that plumbers employ to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down the particles.
How much is it to hire a plumbing company like Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on aspects like how bad the obstruction is, what kind of technique is required to remove the blockage (e.g. hydro jetting or snaking) and how accessible to your drains are. It’s best to contact us at Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone or make an appointment to ensure that we can decide which alternatives are the most effective for your specific situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- CCTV Drain Inspections: The Key to Preventing Clogs and Other Plumbing Issues
- From A to Z Tricks for Cleaning Your Plumbing and Maintaining a Clog-Free House
- The Dangers of Neglecting a Blocked Drain and What You Should Do
- End Clogged Pipes Now: Professional Tips to Try Immediately
- Fix Your Pipe with These Easy Methods: Tips and Tricks
- Make Quick Work of Drain Cleaning with High Pressure Processes
- Quickly and Efficiently Clear Your Pipes with the Do-It-Yourself Guide
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
