Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our daily lives. While most of us try to fix the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains require professional help. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains on your own versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple home remedies
- Before you attempt any solution be sure to are equipped with the proper tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What is the best time to unblock a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be cleared using 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 water is not going down the drain as fast that it would, there might be a minor blockage. Try using a plunger to eliminate any debris blocking the drain.
Odors that are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could indicate food debris or hair which is causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Noises of gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes because of the blockage, it produces popping sounds as water flows through in 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 the most common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project ensure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in the sink will help melt off solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda along with Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to remove larger blockages if plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning the material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the issue persists the issue is time to call in a professional. Here are a few situations that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of your blockages may not have been dealt with correctly. Engaging a team of experts guarantees that they will be able to find the root of the problem and address it.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and other external elements. The experts can help you determine whether your plumbing system requires replacement or more straightforward solutions like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass or chemicals that require special attention. If you do not want to cause injury or damage to your pipes the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. A regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from developing. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspection can 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 in Melbourne . We employ the most advanced technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee excellent results, with no issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with the insider’s view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to address specific issues efficiently.
Our certified experts will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the work is complete.
| 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 know when I’m in need of professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions with no success, then it’s time to get professional assistance. Other indicators include sinks that aren’t draining as fast as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, gurgling sounds, and water backup.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for clearing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY methods before using potentially harmful chemicals. A professional plumber can ensure that you are getting secure and efficient solutions that aren’t you or your family members to risk.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could result in serious long-term damage including water damage, burst pipes, mold growth as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can avoid costly damages.
What are some methods that plumbers employ to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting through or breaking down the pieces of debris.
How much will it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on factors such as how severe the obstruction is, what kind of technique is required for clearing the obstruction (e.g., Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how accessible the drainage device is. It’s best to contact us at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial assessment over the phone, or make an appointment to ensure that we know what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
- Say No to Chemical Drain Cleaners: How They Can Damage Your Pipes
- Become an expert at Drain Cleaning with These Effective Tips
- Unblock Your Drains with This Do-It-Yourself Guide That is Simple to Follow
- End Clogged Drains Now: Specialist Hacks to Test Right Now
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
