Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our everyday life. Although most of us attempt to tackle the issue on our own but there are certain blockages that need professional assistance. In this article we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple home remedies
- Before trying any of the solutions ensure you have the right tools on your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY techniques for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to clear a blocked drain?
A few minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the signs below it is possible to try these methods before calling in experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water is not going down the drain in the same speed the way it is supposed to there might be a tiny blockage. Use a plunger to eliminate any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into your sink or bathtub to dissolve any residue buildup.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes as a result of a clog, it causes noises that bubble as water flows through in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove the food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before trying any method ensure you have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to clear obstructions that are more severe when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking this material from the drain directly.
When is it the best time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but your blockage is still there you need to call in professionals. Here are a few situations which require the assistance of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause for the blockages could not have been properly addressed. Engaging a team of experts guarantees that they will be able to find and correct any underlying problems.
The age of the Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. Professionals can assess whether your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs have hazardous materials like broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you don’t wish to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, you should consider giving this task to certified experts.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is better to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Routine maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages altogether.
Why should you choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Melbourne . We utilize the latest technology and techniques, including hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to fix specific problems properly.
Our experts who are licensed will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up after 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY methods such as plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions with no success It’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include slow draining sinks and odors that smell foul coming from drains, loud gurgling sounds or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to the removal of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY methods before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. A professional plumber can ensure that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without you or your family members to risk.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
Unblocking drains could cause long-lasting damage including water damage, the growth of mold, burst pipes as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some methods used by plumbing professionals to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate blockages by cutting through or breaking down the pieces of debris.
What is the cost to hire a plumbing company similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon aspects like how bad the blockage is, what type of procedure is required to clear the blockage (e.g., the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how accessible your drainage system is. Contact one of our representatives at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or book an appointment so that we know what options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- Prevent Blocked Drains Now: Know the Common Causes
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- Plumbing Tips to Maintain Your Drains Running Efficiently
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- Clearing Obstructed Drains: An Exhaustive Handbook for Plumbers
- Examining the Reasons Behind Blocked Drains
- Discover Why Jetting is the Best Solution for Your Blocked Drain Woes
