Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our daily life. While most of us try to fix the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains require professional assistance. In this article we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be cleared with simple strategies at home
- Before trying any of the solutions be sure to have the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY techniques for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling the water Baking Soda
How do you remove a blockage from a drain?
Some minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of these signs You can try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water is not going down the drain as swiftly the way it is supposed to then there might be a minor blockage. Use a plunger to push out any debris clogging up the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A strong smell emanating from your bathtub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair that is causing the obstruction. Pour boiling water with vinegar into the bathtub or sink to dissolve any residue buildup.
Noises of gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes because of obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows through into the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are the most common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions, make sure you have the proper tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into the sink will help melt away solids like soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when the mixture of Baking Soda and Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to clear larger blockages if plungers and boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the blockage by suctioning this material from the drain in a direct manner.
When is it time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried every DIY strategies, and your blockage is still there you need to call in a professional. Here are a few scenarios where you need the help of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The root of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. The hiring of a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. Experts can determine if the pipeline is in need of replacement or if simpler options like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t want to risk injury or damage to your pipes, consider giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Routine maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspection can prevent blocking completely.
Why Should You Choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Perth Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Perth . We employ the most advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure excellent results, with no problems.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, allowing us to tackle specific issues properly.
Our certified experts will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up after 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 |
FAQ
How do I know when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a drain?
If you have tried basic DIY methods such as plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success, then it’s time to get professional assistance. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast and odors that smell foul coming from the drains, loud gurgling sounds or water back up.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before resorting to using potentially harmful chemicals. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you get secure and efficient solutions that aren’t the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains could result in serious long-term damage including water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods employed by plumbing professionals to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting into or breaking down pieces of debris.
How much will it cost to contract a plumbing company like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear a blocked drain depends on the severity of the obstruction is, what kind of technique is required for unblocking (e.g., Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easy access your drainage system is. We recommend contacting one of our representatives at Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or schedule an appointment so that we can decide which options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain issue untreated, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Ways to Find & Verify a Obstruction in Your Drain
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- Prevent blockages effortlessly with effective solutions
- Investigating the Primary Causes of Drain Blockages
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains and Their Simple Solutions
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: The Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- How to Choose between Different Types of Pipe Relining Materials (And Which One Is Right for You)
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
