DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are an issue that is common to all households and could be caused by a variety of factors, including hair soap scum, soap grease and the roots of trees. Many people prefer solving the problem on their own, there are times that it is better to get help from professionals. In this article, we’ll talk about the times when you should DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to get help from a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- A slow drain, gurgling sounds and foul odors are indicators when your drain needs cleaning.
- Boiling baking soda, water, vinegar, plunger, as well as drain snakes are DIY ways to clear a blocked drain.
- Always read through the instructions and wear gloves if necessary in attempting DIY methods.
- Ask for help from a professional Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber if there are several clogs that do not show improvement even after DIY efforts, or unclear blockages caused due to external factors like tree roots.
- Experts perform CCTV drainage inspections to pinpoint an exact location of blockage, thus avoiding repair expenses.
A Sign Your Drain Needs Cleaning
Before starting the cleaning process, you need to identify if your drain needs to be cleaned up in the first place. Below are a few indicators that show your drain requires attention:
Slow Drainage
If you find that your water will take longer usual for it to drain or isn’t draining in any way, it’s time to investigate. The slow draining of your sink or shower could mean there is a blockage in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Sounds of gurgling coming from drains are often an indication of air getting trapped in the plumbing system. This may result in blocking and needs to be looked at as soon as it’s possible.
Foul Odors
The accumulation of organic matter can create unpleasant odors that emanate out of your pipes. If you smell something funky coming from your kitchen sink or shower, it’s likely that it’s time to wash.
Do-it-yourself drain cleaning is a good idea.
There are several methods of clearing a blockage in a drain you can attempt on your own.
Boiling Water
Boiling water is able to dissolve the majority of organic material, which causes pipe blockage but cannot be used with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A mixture of vinegar and baking soda reacts to produce fizzing acid, causing the clogs that are stubborn to break up; pour boiling water into the clogs afterward to get the best results.
Plunger
Plungers can be a boon for small clogs, especially those that block toilets or sinks. But make sure that there isn’t any chemical residues within the fixture prior to using a the plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears be lodged only a few inches deep the drain, make use of drain snakes. Simply insert it, and slowly rotate while pushing it outwards until the obstruction disappears.
If you’re attempting any DIY cleaning techniques, make sure to read the instructions carefully and use protective equipment such as gloves where necessary.
When To Call to a Professional
While DIY techniques can be successful in certain instances however, there are times when you should consult a certified Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If there are multiple drains that in your home back up in time, don’t try to fix the issue yourself. This could be due to problems within the main sewer line, which require the expertise of a professional plumber.
No Improvement After DIY Attempts
If you’ve tried everything but it’s not working, or if there is regular blockages, there may be more significant plumbing issues requiring expert assistance prior to causing major damage.
Unseen Blockages
External factors like tree roots could cause blockages, which go unnoticed until the problem is severe. Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the precise location of the clog, saving you unnecessary repair costs by directly tackling the problem 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 do I do to determine what I should do if I have to call the services of a licensed plumber?
If you’ve tried a variety of DIY methods but your drain still remains clogged It’s time to call an expert in. Signs that you should call an experienced plumber are frequent blockages, slow drainage bubbling in the sink or toilet, when the water is pumped from another source, and unpleasant smells coming from your drains.
Are there any potential risks trying to clear my own drain?
If you try to clear your own drain can actually do more harm than the good. Use of harmful chemicals and inadequate tools can damage pipes, leading to costly repairs later on. In addition, if a blockage is not properly handled, it could cause water backups and health hazards.
How can I make DIY methods for unclogging my drain?
Some DIY methods for unclogging drains include using plumbing snakes or a plunger pouring boiling water down the drain, or making a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and baking soda. While these options may be effective to clear minor blockages, it’s important to be careful when attempting them.
Can I utilize chemical drain cleaners on my own?
Although chemical drain cleaners might work initially, they can affect older pipes and cause them to weaken. Furthermore, many chemical cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause harm to people and pets.
Why should I choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for my blocked drainage needs in Melbourne ?
At Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers , we specialize in clearing blocked drains swiftly and cost-effectively. Our staff of highly trained experts makes use of the latest technology in CCTV inspection cameras and hydro jetting machines to detect and solve your issues while leaving your property spotless and free of clutter. As a local company serving Melbourne , we’re always available should you face any plumbing problems!
Conclusion
There are times when the DIY approach is successful in cleaning drainage clogs. However professionals have experience and equipment to evaluate the root causes of issues, thus preventing any future problems and ensuring optimum cleanliness throughout the day. If these professionals seem to be the kind of service you need for an optimally clean environment getting their help is a good option. Contact one of our Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumbers for timely efficient solutions with no fuss or stress on your part.
Additional Information
- Stop Drain Blockages Immediately: A Homeowner's Guide
- Maximizing the Benefits of a CCTV Drain Inspection: Preparations You Should Make
- Investigating the Root Causes that Result in Blocked Drains
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Efficiently Handle Drain Cleaning with High Pressure Solutions
- Efficient Plumbing Techniques for Dealing with Blocked Pipes
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Don't Let Your Drains Get You Down: 10 Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- Unblock Your Drains with This Do-It-Yourself Guide That is Simple to Follow
- Why Your Business Needs Periodic Drain Inspection and Cleaning