Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a common problem that can cause disruption to our daily life. While most of us try to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional help. In this post we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains on your own versus seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple methods at home
- Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the right tools on disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar/citric acid
- DIY techniques for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to remove a blockage from a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of these signs You can try these techniques before calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If the water isn’t moving down the drain as swiftly as it should, there could be a small blockage. Use a plunger to eliminate any debris clogging up the pipe.
Infuriating odors
A sour smell coming from your tub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair that is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink to dissolve any residue buildup.
Gurgling noises
When air gets trapped in your pipes as a result of the blockage, it produces noises that bubble as water flows through into the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solution as well as vinegar to unblock any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some typical DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda and Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove larger blockages if plungers or boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is it the best time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques, but your blockage is still there, then it’s time to engage a professional. Here are a few situations where you need the help of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages could not have been dealt with correctly. Employing a professional team 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 due to wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipe requires replacement, or if more simple solutions like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like chemicals or broken glass which require special care. If you don’t want risk injury or damage to your pipes the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Routine maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products down the drain, putting grease substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV inspection can prevent blockages altogether.
Why Choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Melbourne . We utilize the latest equipment and techniques such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee quality results with no future problems.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water that are angled to be suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside look at what’s causing the problems within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues properly.
Our experts who are licensed will efficiently work on site while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up once the job 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 can I tell when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY methods like plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success Then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from the drains, noises of gurgling or water back up.
Is it safe to make use of chemical drain cleaners for getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY methods before resorting to making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you will receive safe and effective solutions without placing yourself or the environment to harm.
Can blocked drains cause any permanent damage to my home?
The truth is that blocked drains can cause long-lasting damage such as water damage cracking pipes, growth of mold, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can prevent costly damage.
What are some techniques used by plumbers to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines, which eliminate blockages by cutting into or cutting up pieces of debris.
How much will it cost to employ a plumbing service like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on factors like how serious the blockage is, which kind of technique is required to remove the blockage (e.g., the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how easy access you are to the drain system. Contact our team at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial review over the phone or book an appointment so we can figure out what methods are best suited to your specific situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- The Complete Guide to Clearing Your Plumbing for a Clog-Free Home
- Clearing Obstructed Drains: An Exhaustive Handbook for Plumbers
- Unblock Your Pipes Effortlessly: A Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Discover Why Jetting is the Best Solution for Your Blocked Drain Woes