Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our daily life. Although most of us attempt to fix the issue on our own but there are certain blockages that need professional assistance. In this post we will look at the pros and cons of clearing blockages on your own or getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be eliminated using simple home remedies
- Before attempting any solutions make sure you have the right tools on your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
What is the best time to unblock a drain?
Some minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the signs below You can try these techniques prior to calling professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain in the same speed the way it is supposed to there may be a slight blockage. Try using a plunger to remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Noises of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to the blockage, it produces popping sounds as water flows through in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water, as well as vinegar to unblock any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions be sure that you have the proper tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt away solids like soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck to your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers for obstructions that are more severe when plungers or boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain directly.
When is it the best time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the issue persists you need to engage a professional. Here are a few instances that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of your blockages might not have been properly addressed. 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 prone to damage caused by wear and external influences. Professionals can assess whether the pipeline is in need of replacement or more straightforward solutions like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials like broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you don’t want to cause injury or damage to your pipes the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspection can prevent obstructions completely.
Why Should You Choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Perth Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Perth . We utilize the latest equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure excellent results, with no issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us the insider’s view of what’s causing the problems within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues properly.
Our experts who are licensed will be on-site quickly and efficiently, keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up once 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
How do I determine if I need professional help to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY solutions like plunging and using drain cleaning solutions with no success is it time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from drains, loud gurgling sounds as well as water back-up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in the removal of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY techniques before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you get secure and efficient solutions that aren’t the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to harm.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
The truth is that blocked drains could cause serious damage over the long term including water damage, burst pipes, mold growth as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time will prevent costly damages.
What are the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate blockages by cutting through or breaking up obstructions.
How much will it cost to engage a plumbing firm similar to Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is, what kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting), and how accessible you are to the drain system. It’s best to contact one of our representatives at Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or make an appointment to ensure that we can determine what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain problem unsolved, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Most Comprehensive Handbook to Drain Clogs: Which Plumbers Use
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains and Their Simple Solutions
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- DIY Plumber - An Easy Guide to Unclog Your Shower Drain
- 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)
- Say Goodbye to Messy Plumbing Repairs with Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Why You Need CCTV Drain Inspection Services
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property