Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. Although most of us attempt to tackle the issue on our own but there are certain blockages that need professional help. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before attempting any solutions be sure to are equipped with the proper tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to clean a blocked drain?
Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you observe any of the following symptoms, you could try using these techniques prior to calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water is not going down the drain as swiftly as it should, then there could be a small blockage. Use a plunger to remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Infuriating odors
The smell that is emanating from your tub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair which is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to dissolve any residue buildup.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes as a result of an obstruction, it can cause noises that bubble as water flows through the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water solutions, followed by vinegar can unclog any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some typical DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions ensure you have the proper tools at your disposal: gloves plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to your sink can aid in melting away solids such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mixing Baking Soda along with Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to prevent more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning this material from the drain directly.
When is it time to get professional help?
If you’ve tried all DIY strategies, and your blockage is still there It’s time to engage an expert. Here are some instances which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root of your blockages may not have been dealt with correctly. Employing a professional team makes sure that they find and fix any underlying issues.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage caused by wear and other external elements. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you don’t wish to cause injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider giving this task to certified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to keep drains clean rather than fix them. A regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products down the drain, putting grease substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV examinations can stop blockages altogether.
Why Choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers for Professional Assistance?
Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Perth . We use advanced equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee top-quality results without problems.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues efficiently.
Our fully licensed experts will work on-site efficiently while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the work has been completed.
| 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 |
FAQs
How do I know if I need professional help to unblock a clogged drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY methods like plunging the drain and using cleaning products but have not had any success, then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include slow draining sinks as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, gurgling sounds, as well as water back-up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in the removal of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY techniques before using potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you get reliable and safe solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to danger.
Could blocked drains cause permanent damage to my home?
In fact, water drains that are blocked can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage burst pipes, mold growth in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can prevent costly damage.
What are some of the methods that plumbers employ to unblock drains?
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 into or breaking down the debris.
What is the cost to contract a plumbing company similar to Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear the drain that is blocked depends on factors like how serious the obstruction is, what kind of method is needed to remove the blockage (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how accessible the drainage device is. We recommend contacting us at Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers for an initial assessment over the phone, or set up an appointment so we can figure out what methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Say Goodbye to Messy Plumbing Repairs with Trenchless Pipe Relining
- Need help with your blocked drain? Find the perfect plumber
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Investigating & Verifying a Blocked Drain: Measures to Take
- The Risks of Unclogging Your Drains Without Professional Help
- Stop Blockages Before They Happen: 10 Ways to Prevent Clogged Drains
- CCTV Drain Inspection: An Effective Way to Prevent Future Plumbing Issues
- Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- Inspecting Drains Using CCTV to Detect Root Infiltration: Benefits for Property Owners
- Simple Solutions for Clearing Out Clogged Drains at Home
