DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common problem for homeowners and is caused by many things, like hair, soap scum, grease or some tree root. Although many prefer fixing the issue at home but there are instances when it is best to call an expert. In this post, we’ll talk about the times when you should DIY drain cleaning and when to get help from a professional plumber.

Key Takeaways

• Gulping sounds, slow draining and odors that smell foul indicate the time to clean your drain.
• Boiling water, baking soda and plunger along with drain snake, are all DIY ways to clear an obstruction in drains.
• Always read through the instructions and use gloves in attempting DIY methods.
• Consult a licensed Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber if there are multiple clogs, no improvement after DIY attempts or unclear blockages caused due to external factors like tree roots.
• Experts perform CCTV drainage inspections to identify the exact blockage area, avoiding unnecessary repair cost.

A Sign Your Drain Needs Cleaning

Before diving into cleansing, you need to know if your drain should be cleaned in the first place. Here are some signs that indicate your drain needs attention:

Slow Draining

If you’re noticing that water takes longer than normal or is taking longer to drain or doesn’t drain at all, you need to examine. If your sink isn’t draining as fast as it should, or shower could mean there is a clog forming in your pipes.

Gurgling Noises

The sounds of drains gurgling typically indicate air being trapped inside the plumbing system. This could lead to blockages, and must be investigated as soon as it’s possible.

Foul Odors

The buildup of organic matter could produce unpleasant odors from your drains. If you smell something funky emanating from your sink or bathtub, it’s the time to get your bathroom cleaned.

When to do your own drain cleaning

There are several methods of getting rid of a blocked drain, which you can try at your own pace:

Boiling Water

Boiling water is able to dissolve the majority of organic matter, causing blockages to pipes but is not used with PVC pipes.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

A mixture of baking soda and vinegar reacts producing fizzing acid causing any clogs that have been causing problems to be loosened up; pour boiling water through afterward for flawless results.

Plunger

Plungers can be a boon for minor blockages, specifically for blocked toilets or sinks. However, make sure that there’s no chemical residues present in the fixture before using plunger.

Drain Snake

If the blockage appears to be wedged just a few inches in the drain, make use of drain snakes. Simply insert it and gradually rotate while pushing it outwards until the obstruction disappears.

When you attempt any DIY cleaning method, be sure to take the time to study the instructions carefully, and wear protective equipment like gloves whenever necessary.

When should you call a Professional

Although DIY solutions can be successful in certain instances however, there are times when you should consult a licensed Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumber:

Multiple Clogs

If there are multiple drains that in your home back up with time, don’t try to resolve this yourself. It could be because of issues within your main sewer line and require the expertise of a professional plumber.

There is no improvement after DIY attempts.

When you’ve attempted everything, but there is no solution or if there is recurring blockages, there may be more critical underlying plumbing issues that require expert advice prior to causing major damage.

Unseen Blockages

Sometimes external entities like tree roots can cause blockages which remain unnoticed until the issue is severe. Professionals carry out CCTV drainage inspections that pinpoint the location of the clog and cutting down on repair costs by directly tackling the problem without guesswork.

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

FAQs

How can I tell if I need to call an experienced plumber?

If you’ve tried a variety of DIY techniques and your drain remains blocked and clogged, you need to call the experts in. The signs to call the plumber include frequent blockages, slow drainage, bubbling from the sink or in the toilet when water comes from another source, and unpleasant odors emanating from the drains.

Are there any risk involved in trying to unblock me own sewer?

It’s true that trying to unblock your own drain can actually cause more harm than it is. Use of harmful chemicals and inadequate tools could cause damage to pipes, which can lead to expensive repairs down the line. If a blockage is not handled correctly it could cause sewage backups and potential health hazards.

What are some DIY methods for unclogging my drain?

A few DIY methods to clear drains include using plumbing snakes or a plunger pouring boiling hot waters down drains or creating a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. While these methods may work to clear minor blockages, you should be cautious when you try them.

Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners on my own?

While chemical drain cleaners could work initially, they can affect older pipes and cause them to weaken. Additionally, many chemical cleaners contain harsh substances that can be harmful to humans as well as pets.

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

In Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers , we specialize in unblocking blocked drains quickly and affordably. Our expert team uses only the latest technologies in the field of CCTV cameras as well as hydro jetting machines to detect and effectively solve your problems whilst leaving your property clean and tidy. Furthermore, as a local company serving Melbourne , we’re always near if you have any plumbing issues!

Conclusion

There are instances when the DIY method can be effective in cleaning drain clogs; however, professionals have experience and tools to determine underlying problems preventing future troubles ensuring optimal cleanliness every time. If the professionals you are looking for seem like the kind of service you need for the perfect sanitary environment and their expertise, contacting them may be your best option. Reach out to one of our Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers plumbers for timely effective solutions without hassle or worries on your part.

Additional Information

• The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
• Say No to Chemical Drain Cleaners: How They Can Damage Your Pipes
• Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
• Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them
• Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
• The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
• The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
• The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
• Become an expert at Drain Cleaning with These Effective Tips
• Get rid of clogged drains with these amazing remedies