Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. Although most of us attempt to tackle the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains need professional help. In this article we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home
- Before you attempt any solution make sure you have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling the water Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to clean a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you notice any of the signs below then you can try these techniques before calling experts:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If water is not going down the drain as swiftly as it should, then there might be a minor blockage. Use a plunger to get rid of any debris blocking the drain.
Odors that are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair, causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your sink or bathtub to break up any residue that has accumulated.
The sound of gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes due to a clog, it causes noises that bubble as water flows down the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions be sure that you are equipped with the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will help melt away solids like soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mix Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to prevent more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques, but the issue persists the issue is time to call in a professional. Here are some instances that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The root cause for your blockages may not have been fixed correctly. The hiring of a professional team guarantees that they will be able to find and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Age of Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and other external elements. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement, or if more simple solutions such as Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you do not want to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes confiding this task to qualified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV examinations can stop blocking completely.
Why choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Perth Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Perth . We use the most modern equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure high-quality results and will not cause problems.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside view of what’s causing the problems within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues properly.
Our fully licensed experts will work on-site efficiently while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments while 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
What can I do to determine when I’m in need of professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY techniques like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success, then it’s time to consult a professional. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast, foul odors coming from the drains, sounds of gurgling, and water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY techniques before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to danger.
Are blocked drains causing any permanent damage to my home?
Unblocking drains can result in long-term, serious damage like water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some methods that plumbers employ to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down obstructions.
What is the cost to hire a plumbing company similar to Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on factors like how serious the obstruction is, what kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking), and how accessible the drainage device is. It’s best to contact one of our representatives at Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial review over the phone or set up an appointment so that we can determine what options will work best for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Overcoming Stubborn Clogs with High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- CCTV Drain Inspection: An Effective Way to Prevent Future Plumbing Issues
- Why You Need CCTV Drain Inspection Services
- Require help with your backed up drain? Find the best plumber
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Most Comprehensive Handbook to Drain Clogs: Which Plumbers Use
- Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them
- Investigating the Primary Causes of Drain Blockages
