Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our daily lives. While we tend to try to resolve the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains require professional help. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of clearing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages are easily cleared by simple strategies at home
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the right tools on disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling the water Baking Soda
What is the best time to clean a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you notice any of the signs below You can try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If the water isn’t moving through the drains as quickly the way it is supposed to then there could be a small blockage. Try using a plunger to remove any debris blocking the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows down into the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solution and vinegar, you can clear any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt away solids like soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by the mixture of Baking Soda along with Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to prevent obstructions that are more severe when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking this material from the drain directly.
When is the right time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and the blockage still persists It’s time to seek out professionals. Here are a few situations that require seeking professional expertise:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. Employing a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage caused by wear and other external elements. A professional can tell if your plumbing system requires replacement or whether simpler options like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like chemicals or broken glass which require special care. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, think about leaving this job to certified experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Routine maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as refraining from flushing hygiene products down the drain, putting grease substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blocking completely.
Why choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Melbourne . We use advanced equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, allowing us to fix specific problems properly.
Our certified experts will work on-site efficiently while maintaining social distancing during these Covid moments, and cleaning up once the job is done.
| 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 |
FAQs
How do I know whether I require professional assistance to clear a blocked drain?
If you have tried basic DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success Then it’s time to get professional assistance. Other signs include slow draining sinks as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, loud gurgling sounds or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to the removal of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous and hazardous to you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY methods before using potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you receive safe and effective solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains can cause serious damage over the long term like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time can prevent costly damage.
What are some methods used by plumbing professionals to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snakes that clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking down pieces of debris.
How much will it cost to hire a plumbing company like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is and what kind of technique is required to clear the blockage (e.g. Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easily your drainage system is. Contact one of our representatives at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial assessment over the phone or set up an appointment so we can figure out what options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Efficient Plumbing Techniques for Dealing with Blocked Pipes
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- Easy and Safe Ways to Get Rid of a Stubborn Shower Drain Blockage
- Problems with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Tips and Solutions
- Unblock Your Drains with This Do-It-Yourself Guide That is Simple to Follow
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Tips on Keeping Your Drains Clear and Free From Blockages
- Stop Drain Blockages Immediately: A Homeowner's Guide
