Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. While many of us try to tackle the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional assistance. In this article we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be removed with simple techniques at home
- Before you attempt any solution, make sure you have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to unblock a drain?
Some minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of these signs it is possible to try these methods before calling in experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If water isn’t going through the drains as quickly the way it is supposed to then there might be a minor blockage. Make use of a plunger remove any debris blocking the drain.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could be a sign of food particles or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar into your sink or bathtub to eliminate any residue.
Gurgling noises
When air is trapped inside your pipes due to the blockage, it produces bubbling sounds as water goes through in the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution and vinegar, you can clear any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution ensure you have the proper tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to your sink can aid in melting away solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mixing Baking Soda along with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to clear more severe blockages when plungers or boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the blockage by suctioning the material out of the drain directly.
Is it time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques, but the problem persists It’s time to engage an expert. Here are a few scenarios where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root of the blockages could not have been addressed correctly. Employing a professional team guarantees that they will be able to find and fix any underlying issues.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are susceptible to damage due to wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if the pipeline is in need of replacement or if simpler solutions like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you don’t want to be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes confiding this task to qualified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. The regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as not flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blocking completely.
Why Choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Melbourne . We employ the most advanced equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee excellent results, with no issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an inside view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to deal with specific issues effectively.
Our certified experts will be on-site quickly and efficiently, ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the work 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 can I tell if I need professional help to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY solutions like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success is it time to get professional assistance. Other signs include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from the drains, loud gurgling sounds as well as water back-up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY techniques before using potentially harmful chemicals. A professional plumber can ensure that you are getting the most effective and safe solutions, without you or your family members to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my home?
Unblocking drains could result in long-term, serious damage including water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can prevent costly damage.
What are the techniques used by plumbers to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines which clear blockages by cutting through or breaking down the particles.
What is the cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on the severity of the blockage is, which kind of technique is required for unblocking (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easy access the drainage device is. It’s best to contact one of our representatives at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial review over the phone or schedule an appointment so we can figure out what options will work best for your particular situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain issue untreated, call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Say farewell to clogged drains with these most effective solutions
- Plumbing Tips to Maintain Your Drains Running Efficiently
- Your Ultimate Guide to Clearing and Unblocking Clogged Drains with Ease
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Tips and Tricks for Clearing a Blocked Pipe with Ease
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- Get rid of your clogged drain situation with the correct plumber
- The Complete Guide to Clearing Your Plumbing for a Clog-Free Home
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
