Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our everyday lives. While most of us try to fix the issue on our own, some stubborn blockages need professional assistance. In this article we’ll look at the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be removed with simple strategies at home
- Before attempting any solutions make sure you have the appropriate tools at fingertips: plunger, gloves or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY techniques for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to clean a blocked drain?
Some minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of these signs it is possible to try these methods before calling in professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as fast as it should, then there might be a minor blockage. Try using a plunger to remove any debris that is clogging the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair, causing the obstruction. Pour boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Noises of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes as a result of a clog, it causes noises that bubble as water flows through into the drain. Using baking soda and hot water, in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to clear more severe blockages when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain directly.
When is it time to engage professionals?
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 instances which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause for the blockages might not have been addressed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals will ensure that they are able to identify the root of the problem and address it.
The age of the Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage due to wear and external factors. The experts can help you determine whether your pipeline needs replacement or if simpler solutions like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) 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 wish to be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making lifestyle changes such as not flushing toiletries in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV examinations can stop blocking completely.
Why Should You 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 techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide the insider’s view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues correctly.
Our certified experts can be on site efficiently, while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid times, while cleaning up after the work 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 |
FAQ
How can I tell when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions with no success, then it’s time to get professional assistance. Other signs include sinks that don’t drain as quickly and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, loud gurgling sounds and water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to the removal of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are hazardous and harmful to both you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY strategies before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive secure and efficient solutions that aren’t placing yourself or the environment to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my home?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could result in serious long-term damage such as water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are the techniques used by plumbers to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting into or cutting up obstructions.
How much does it cost to engage a plumbing firm similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on the severity of the blockage is, which kind of technique is required for unblocking (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easy access to your drains are. We recommend contacting the team of Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial evaluation over the phone or book an appointment so that we know what methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation in the dark, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Avoid Expensive Repairs with Regular CCTV Drain Inspections
- Say No to Chemical Drain Cleaners: How They Can Damage Your Pipes
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
- Efficient Plumbing Techniques for Dealing with Blocked Pipes
- Don't Let Your Drains Get You Down: 10 Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- Choose the right plumber to repair your clogged drain crisis
- Problems with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Tips and Solutions
