Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. While we tend to try to fix the issue by ourselves but some blocked drains require professional help. In this article we will discuss the pros and cons of clearing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home
- Before attempting any solutions, make sure you have the appropriate tools at fingertips: plunger, gloves, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to clear a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you observe any of these signs then you can try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If the water isn’t flowing through the drains as quickly as it should, then there may be a slight blockage. Make use of a plunger eliminate any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your tub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair which is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
Noises of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to obstruction, it creates popping sounds as water flows through the drain. Using baking soda and hot water, and vinegar, you can clear any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution, make sure you have the proper tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in the sink will help melt away any solids, such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mix Baking Soda and Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers for larger blockages if plungers and boiling water do not work.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain directly.
Is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques, but your blockage is still there It’s time to involve an expert. Here are a few scenarios that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The root of your blockages might not have been dealt with correctly. Hiring a team of professionals makes sure that they find and correct any underlying problems.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions such as Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you don’t want cause injury or damage to your pipes, think about the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is better to maintain drains than fixing them. A regular maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes such as not flushing hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, or 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 use advanced techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure excellent results, with no problems.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, allowing us to fix specific problems efficiently.
Our experts who are licensed can be on site efficiently, while keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the task is 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 determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a blocked drain?
If you have tried basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success is it the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include sinks that don’t drain as quickly as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, gurgling sounds, or water back up.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners for removing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY strategies before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. A professional plumber can ensure that you get safe and effective solutions without you or your family members to harm.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
Unblocking drains can cause long-lasting damage like water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time will prevent costly damages.
What are the methods that plumbers employ to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down the obstructions.
How much does it 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 factors like how serious the blockage is, which type of procedure is required for unblocking (e.g. Hydro jetting, or even snaking), and how accessible you are to the drain system. We recommend contacting us at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or make an appointment to ensure we can figure out what methods are best suited to your specific situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- Examining the Reasons Behind Blocked Drains
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is Essential for Maintaining Clean and Healthy Environment?
- Why You Need CCTV Drain Inspection Services
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- Unblock Your Pipes Effortlessly: A Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Maximizing the Long-Term Benefits of Pipe Relining by Picking the Ideal Material
- A Hassle-Free Detailed Manual to Unclog Your Jammed Shower Drain