Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our daily life. While most of us try to fix the issue on our own but some blocked drains need professional assistance. In this post we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages are easily cleared by simple strategies at home
- Before you attempt any solution, make sure you have the right tools on fingertips: plunger, gloves baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
How do you remove a blockage from a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you notice any of these signs You can try these techniques prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water isn’t going through the drains as quickly the way it is supposed to there might be a tiny blockage. Try using a plunger to remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Infuriating odors
A strong smell emanating from your tub or sink could indicate food debris or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes because of a clog, it causes the sound of bubbling as water flows through to the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution as well as vinegar to unblock the food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure that you have the right tools on your disposal: gloves plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers for more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain directly.
When is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and your blockage is still there, then it’s time to seek out the help of a professional. Here are a few situations that require seeking professional expertise:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of the blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. Hiring a team of professionals ensures that they can uncover the root of the problem and address it.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipeline needs replacement, or if more simple solutions such as Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you don’t want be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes, think about confiding this task to qualified professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is better to maintain drains than fixing them. A regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing toiletries down the drain, putting grease substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspection can prevent blocking completely.
Why choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Melbourne . We employ the most advanced technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause problems.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues effectively.
Our licensed professionals will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping social distance during these Covid times while cleaning up once the job 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 |
FAQ
How do I determine whether I require professional assistance to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY methods like plunging and using drain cleaning solutions with no success It’s time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining sinks or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from drains, loud gurgling sounds as well as water back-up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you will receive safe and effective solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to harm.
Can blocked drains cause any lasting damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains could result in serious long-term damage like water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can prevent costly damage.
What are some of the methods that plumbers employ to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting or breaking up particles.
How much will it cost to hire a plumbing company like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon aspects like how bad the blockage is and what kind of technique is required to clear the blockage (e.g., hydro jetting or snaking), and how accessible your drainage system is. Contact the team of Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial assessment over the phone or book an appointment so that we can determine what methods are best suited to your particular situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Say No to Chemical Drain Cleaners: How They Can Damage Your Pipes
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Clogged Bathroom Drain? Learn How to Clear it with The following Thorough Guide
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
- The Ultimate Guide to Pipe Relining: How to Select the Perfect Material
- Efficient Plumbing Techniques for Dealing with Blocked Pipes
