Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our daily life. While we tend to try to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional assistance. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be removed with simple home remedies
- Before trying any of the solutions be sure to are equipped with the proper tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these techniques before calling experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If the water isn’t moving down the drain in the same speed like it ought to, there might be a minor blockage. You can try using a plunger remove any debris blocking the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar into your sink or bathtub to eliminate any residue.
The sound of gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates the sound of bubbling as water flows through to the drain. Using baking soda and hot water, and vinegar, you can clear any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some common DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will help melt away any solids, such as soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mixing Baking Soda along with Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to remove more serious blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain directly.
Is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and your blockage is still there the issue is time to call in the help of a professional. Here are a few instances that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The root cause for the blockages could not have been properly addressed. Employing a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify the root of the problem and address it.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to wear and other external elements. A professional can tell if your plumbing system requires replacement or if simpler options like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to risk injury or damage to your pipes giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to keep drains clean rather than fix them. A regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages altogether.
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 utilize the latest equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water at specific angles suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an inside look at the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to address specific issues properly.
Our experts who are licensed will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
How do I determine whether I require professional assistance to unblock a drain?
If you have tried basic DIY methods like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success It’s time to consult a professional. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast and odors that smell foul coming from drains, noises of gurgling and water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY strategies before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without exposing yourself or your environment to risk.
Can blocked drains cause any long-term damage to my property?
The truth is that blocked drains can result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the techniques used by plumbers to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines which clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking up particles.
How much will it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on aspects like how bad the blockage is, which kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easily the drainage device is. It’s best to contact us at 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 specific situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- Why Your Business Needs Periodic Drain Inspection and Cleaning
- Problems with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Tips and Solutions
- Choose the right plumber to repair your clogged drain crisis
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- Don't Let Your Drains Get You Down: 10 Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Detecting and Identifying a Blocked Drain: Tricks & Techniques
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
