DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional
Clogged drains are an issue that is common to all households and is caused by many things, such as hair soap scum grease, and some tree root. Many people prefer solving the problem at home, there are times when it is best to call a professional. In this article, we will explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when to solicit help from a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Gulping sounds, slow draining and a foul smell indicate that your drain is in need of cleaning.
- Boiling baking soda, water, vinegar, plunger, along with drain snake, are DIY methods to unclog the drain.
- Always read the directions and use gloves when attempting DIY methods.
- Seek help from a professional Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber if there are multiple clogs but no improvement even after DIY efforts, or blocked drains that are not visible due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Experts perform CCTV drainage inspections to find specific blockage location preventing unnecessary repair cost.
How to tell if your drain needs cleaning
Before diving into this cleaning procedure, be sure be aware of whether your drain is in need of being cleaned in the first place. Here are some signs that show your drain requires attention:
Slow Draining
If you notice that water is taking longer than usual for it to drain or doesn’t drain at all, it’s time to examine. If your sink isn’t draining as fast as it should, or shower could indicate that there’s a clog forming in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Sounds of gurgling coming from drains are often an indication of air being trapped inside the plumbing system. This may result in blockages and should be investigated as soon as possible.
Foul Odors
The accumulation of organic matter may create unpleasant odors that emanate out of your pipes. If you notice something odd coming from your sink or bathtub, it’s likely time for cleaning.
When To DIY Drain Cleaning
There are many methods for unclogging a blocked drain which you can try at your own pace:
Boiling Water
Boiling water can dissolve most organic materials, which can cause pipe blockage but cannot be employed with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts and produces fizzing acid that causes the clogs that are stubborn to break up. Pour boiling water through afterward for flawless results.
Plunger
Plungers can work wonders with minor obstructions, particularly for blocked toilets or sinks. But make sure that there’s no chemical residues in the fixture before using plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears be lodged only a few inches deep the bowels, you may use drain snakes. Place it, and slowly rotate while pushing it forward until the obstruction disappears.
If you’re attempting any DIY cleaning method, be sure to read the instructions carefully and wear protective clothing like gloves if needed.
When to call a Professional
Although DIY methods can be successful in certain instances However, there are some situations where you should seek help from a licensed Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home have a tendency to overflow with time, don’t try to fix the issue yourself. This could be due to issues with your main sewer line and require the expertise of a skilled plumber.
There is no improvement after DIY attempts.
If you’ve tried everything and you’re not getting results or if there is persistent blockages, there could be more significant plumbing issues that require expert help before major damages are caused.
Unseen Blockages
Sometimes external entities like tree roots can cause blockages which remain unnoticed until the issue grows to be a major issue. Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the exact location of the blockage, saving you unnecessary repair costs by tackling the issue directly without any guesswork.
| Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning | When To DIY Drain Cleaning | When To Call a Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Draining | Boiling water | Multiple Clogs |
| Gurgling Noises | Baking Soda and Vinegar | No Improvement After DIY Attempts |
| Foul Odors | Plunger | Unseen Blockages |
| Drain Snake |
Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.
Common Questions and Answers
What can I do to tell what I should do if I have to call to a plumber who is reputable?
If you’ve tried a variety of DIY methods but your drain is still clogged and clogged, you need to call in the professionals. Some signs that you need to contact the plumber include frequent blockages, slow drainage bubbling in the sink or toilet, when the water is pumped by another source, as well as unpleasant odors emanating from the drains.
Are there any potential risks trying to clean your own drainage?
If you try to clear your drain on your own can cause more harm than the good. Harsh chemicals and improper tools can harm pipes and lead to costly repairs down the line. Additionally, if a blockage is not dealt with properly, it could result in the occurrence of sewage backups as well as health risks.
Which are the best DIY techniques to free my drain?
A few DIY methods to clear drains involve using a plumbing snake or plunger pouring boiling hot liquid down the drain, or creating a mixture of baking soda with vinegar. While these methods may work for small clogs, it’s important to be careful when you try them.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners can initially work, they may affect older pipes and cause them to weaken. Additionally, many chemical cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that could cause harm to humans and pets.
Why should I select Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for my blocked drains in Melbourne ?
In Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers , we specialize in clearing blocked drains swiftly and at a reasonable cost. Our team of trained professionals employs only the most modern techniques in surveillance cameras and hydro jetting machines to diagnose and resolve your problems while leaving your property clean and mess-free. As an established local business serving Melbourne , we’re always available should you face any plumbing problems!
Conclusion
There are times when the DIY approach is successful in cleaning drain clogs. However experts have the experience and tools to assess the root causes of issues, thus preventing any future problems to ensure optimal hygiene always. If these experts seem like what your home needs for the perfect sanitary environment and their expertise, contacting them might be the best option. Contact Our Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumbers for timely efficient solutions with no fuss or worries on your part.
Additional Information
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Stop Drain Blockages Immediately: A Homeowner's Guide
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
- Get rid of clogged drains with these amazing remedies
- Maximizing the Benefits of a CCTV Drain Inspection: Preparations You Should Make
- Don't Let Your Drains Get You Down: 10 Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Easy and Safe Ways to Get Rid of a Stubborn Shower Drain Blockage