DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are the most common issue in homes and could be the result of a myriad of factors, including hair, soap scum, grease and even tree roots. Many people prefer solving the problem by themselves, there are times that it is better to contact professionals. In this post, we’ll discuss when you should DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to get help from professional plumber.

Key Takeaways

• A slow drain, gurgling sounds and odors that smell foul indicate when your drain needs cleaning.
• Boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, plunger, as well as drain snakes are DIY ways to clear a blocked drain.
• Always read instructions and wear gloves if necessary in attempting DIY methods.
• Seek help from a professional Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber if there are numerous clogs and no improvement after DIY attempts or unseen blockages caused by external factors such as tree roots.
• The experts conduct CCTV drainage inspections to find specific blockage location preventing unnecessary repair costs.

How to tell if your drain needs cleaning

Before starting your cleaning routine, you must be aware of whether your drain should be cleaned in the first place. Here are some indications that indicate your drain needs attention:

Slow Drainage

If you notice that your water takes longer than normal to drain or doesn’t drain completely, it’s time to check. If your sink isn’t draining as fast as it should, or shower could be a sign of an obstruction forming within your pipes.

Gurgling Noises

The sounds of drains gurgling are often an indication of air being trapped inside the plumbing system. This may result in blockages, and must be looked at as soon as it is possible.

Foul Odors

The buildup of organic matter could result in unpleasant smells emanating out of your pipes. If you’re smelling something strange emanating from your bathroom sink or bathtub, it’s likely to be time to clean.

How to DIY Drain Cleaning

There are a variety of methods for unclogging a blocked drain which you can attempt by yourself:

Boiling Water

Boiling water can dissolve most organic matter, causing blockages to pipes but is not employed with PVC pipes.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

A mixture of baking soda and vinegar reacts to produce fizzing acid, causing any stubborn clogs to loosen up; pour boiling water through afterward for the best results.

Plunger

Plungers can be a boon for small clogs, especially those that block toilets and sinks, but make sure that there’s no chemical residue in the fixture before using plunger.

Drain Snake

If you believe that the blockage may be tucked a few inches in the drain, employ drain snakes; insert it, and slowly rotate while pushing it to the point that the obstruction is removed.

When attempting any DIY cleaning techniques, make sure to read the instructions carefully and use protective equipment such as gloves if needed.

When to call to a Professional

Although DIY solutions can be successful in certain instances however, there are times when you need the assistance of a professional Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber:

Multiple Clogs

If there are multiple drains that within your home are backed up over time, don’t attempt to solve the problem yourself. This could be due to issues within your main sewer line that require the expertise of a skilled plumber.

No Improvement After DIY Attempts

When you’ve attempted everything and there is no solution or if you’ve noticed frequent blockages, it could be more critical underlying plumbing issues that require expert advice prior to significant damage occurring.

Unseen Blockages

Sometimes external entities like tree roots may cause blockages that remain unnoticed until the issue gets serious. Professionals carry out CCTV drainage inspections pinpointing the location of the clog and eliminating unnecessary repair costs by solving the issue immediately without any guesswork.

Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.

Common Questions & Answers

How do I know if I need to call the services of a licensed plumber?

If you’ve tried various DIY techniques and your drain still remains clogged then it’s time to call in the pros. The signs to call an experienced plumber are frequent obstructions, slow draining, bubbling in the toilet or sink when water comes from a different source, or unpleasant smells coming out of your drains.

Are there any dangers to trying to clean me own sewer?

Yes, attempting to unclog the drain in your home can cause more harm than the good. Harsh chemicals and improper tools can damage pipes, leading to expensive repairs down the line. Furthermore, if a blocked pipe is not dealt with properly, it could lead to the occurrence of sewage backups as well as health hazards.

What are some DIY methods for unclogging my drain?

A few DIY methods to clear drains are to use the plunger or plumbing snake pouring boiling drinking water into the drainage or making a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. While these methods may work for small clogs, it’s important to be careful in attempting these methods.

Can I employ chemical drain cleaners at my own?

Although chemical drain cleaners might be effective initially, they could cause damage to older pipes and cause them to weaken. Additionally, many chemical cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that could cause harm to people and pets.

Why should I select Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for my blocked drains needs in Melbourne ?

The team at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers , we specialize in clearing blocked drains efficiently and affordably. Our professional team utilizes the most advanced technological advances in cameras for CCTV as well as hydro jetting equipment to pinpoint and resolve your problems while leaving your property spotless and free of clutter. Furthermore, as a local company servicing Melbourne , we’re always close by should you experience any plumbing issues!

Conclusion

There are instances when the DIY approach is successful in cleaning drain clogs. However experts have the experience and tools to determine underlying problems preventing future troubles and ensuring optimum cleanliness throughout the day. If these pros seem like the ideal solution for your home to have the perfect sanitary environment and you are looking for their services, then contacting them is a good option. Contact our Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumbers for timely efficient solutions with no fuss or stress on your part.

Additional Information

• The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
• Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
• Efficiently Handle Drain Cleaning with High Pressure Solutions
• Instant Fixes for a Clogged Drain: Tips and Tricks
• What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
• Easy and Safe Ways to Get Rid of a Stubborn Shower Drain Blockage
• The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
• Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
• Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
• The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early