DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional
Clogged drains are a common problem for homeowners and could be caused by a variety of things, such as hair, soap scum, grease or trees. Although many prefer solving the problem at home, there are times that you should call a professional. In this article, we will explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to seek help from professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Gulping sounds, slow draining and a foul smell indicate when your drain needs cleaning.
- Boiling baking soda, water, vinegar, plunger, along with drain snake, are DIY ways to clear the drain.
- Always read instructions and use gloves when attempting DIY techniques.
- Consult a licensed Perth Blocked Drains Plumber plumber if there are several clogs that do not show improvement following DIY efforts or unclear blockages caused due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections to pinpoint the exact blockage area, avoiding unnecessary repair cost.
The Signs that Your Drain Needs To Be Clean
Before beginning this cleaning procedure, it is important to determine if your drain needs to be cleaned at all. Here are some indications that tell you your drain is in need of attention:
Slow Draining
If you find that your water has taken longer than normal in time to drain or isn’t draining completely, it’s time to examine. If your sink isn’t draining as fast as it should, or shower could mean there is a clog forming in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
The sounds of drains gurgling are often an indication of air getting trapped in the plumbing system. This could lead to obstructions and should be examined as soon as possible.
Foul Odors
The buildup of organic matter may produce unpleasant odors into your plumbing. If you smell something funky coming from your kitchen sink or bath, it’s time for cleaning.
When To DIY Drain Cleaning
There are numerous methods for getting rid of a blocked drain, which you can attempt by yourself:
Boiling Water
Boiling water dissolves most organic material, which causes blockages in pipes, but it cannot be used in conjunction with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts producing fizzing acid causing any clogs that have been causing problems to be loosened up. Pour boiling water through afterward for optimal results.
Plunger
Plungers work wonders for small clogs, especially those that block sinks or toilets but ensure that there isn’t any chemical residue within the fixture prior use of a the plunger.
Drain Snake
If you believe that the blockage may be tucked only a few inches deep the drain, use drain snakes. Simply insert it, and slowly rotate while pushing it forward until the obstruction is removed.
If you are attempting any DIY cleaning techniques, make sure to be sure to read the directions carefully and use protective equipment such as gloves when needed.
When should you call an Professional
While DIY techniques can work in certain situations but there are instances when you need the assistance of a licensed Perth Blocked Drains Plumber plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home are backed up with time, don’t try to resolve this yourself. It could be because of issues in your main sewer line that require the skills of a professional plumber.
No Improvement After DIY Attempts
You’ve tried every option nothing appears to work or if you’ve noticed persistent blockages, there could be underlying plumbing issues that require expert advice before significant damages occur.
Unseen Blockages
External entities such as tree roots can cause blockages that go unnoticed until the problem gets serious. Professionals carry out CCTV drainage inspections pinpointing the specific clog location saving you unnecessary repair costs by tackling the issue directly without guesswork.
| Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning | When To DIY Drain Cleaning | When To Call a Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Draining | Boiling water | Multiple Clogs |
| Gurgling Noises | Baking Soda and Vinegar | No Improvement After DIY Attempts |
| Foul Odors | Plunger | Unseen Blockages |
| Drain Snake |
Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.
Common Questions & Answers
What do I do to determine whether I should call an experienced plumber?
If you’ve tried various DIY methods and the drain is still blocked then it’s time to call in the professionals. Signs that you should call the plumber include frequent blockages, slow drainage bubbling in the toilet or sink when the water is pumped by another source, as well as unpleasant smells coming from your drains.
Are there any risks to trying to unblock me own sewer?
It’s true that trying to unblock your drain could create more harm than the good. Harsh chemicals and improper tools can damage pipes, leading to expensive repairs down the line. Furthermore, if a blocked pipe is not properly handled, it could lead to the occurrence of sewage backups as well as health hazards.
How can I make DIY ways to unblock my drain?
Some DIY methods for clearing drains include using plumbing snakes or a plunger or pouring boiling water down the drain or mixing baking soda and vinegar. While these methods may work for minor clogs, it’s important to be careful when attempting these methods.
Can I utilize chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners may initially work, they may affect older pipes and weaken them. In addition, many chemical cleaners contain harsh chemicals that could be harmful to both people as well as pets.
Why should I choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for my blocked drains to Perth ?
In Perth Blocked Drains Plumber , we specialize in clearing blocked drains fast and affordably. Our team of trained professionals utilizes the most advanced technology in CCTV inspection cameras as well as hydro jetting equipment to pinpoint and effectively solve your problems while leaving your property clean and mess-free. Additionally, since we’re an local company that serves Perth , we’re always close by should you experience any plumbing emergencies!
Conclusion
There are instances where the DIY approach works effectively in cleaning the drains of clogs. But professionals have experience and the tools to identify the root causes of issues, thus preventing any future problems to ensure optimal hygiene always. If these experts seem like the kind of service you need for an ideal sanitary environment getting their help is a good option. Contact Our Perth Blocked Drains Plumber plumbers for timely effective solutions without hassle or hassle on your behalf.
Additional Information
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains and Their Simple Solutions
- Say Goodbye to Blocked Pipes: Effective Drainage Remedies
- Keeping Costly Drain Repairs at Bay with Routine Inspections
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Bid Farewell to Clogged Drains: The Step-by-Step Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Investigating the Primary Causes of Drain Blockages
- Blockage of Drains: Plumbing Tips and Solutions
- Overcoming Stubborn Clogs with High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- CCTV Drain Inspection: Find Out How it Helps Pinpoint Root Infiltration in Your Pipes
