Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our daily lives. Although most of us attempt to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that require professional assistance. In this article we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains by yourself versus having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe are easily cleared by simple home remedies
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the right tools on fingertips: plunger, gloves baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing blocked drains include Boiling the water Baking Soda
What is the best time to clear a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the signs below then you can try these techniques prior to calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as swiftly as it should, there might be a tiny blockage. Try using a plunger to remove any debris blocking the drain.
The smells are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your tub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair which is causing the blockage. Pour boiling water with vinegar into your bathtub or sink in order to eliminate any residue.
Noises of gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes due to a clog, it causes bubbling sounds as water goes down into the drain. Baking soda and a hot water, and vinegar, you can clear the food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure that you have the proper tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mix Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove larger blockages if plungers and boiling water do not work.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the blockage material out of the drain directly.
When is it the best time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but the problem persists, then it’s time to engage professionals. Here are a few situations that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The root of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. Hiring a team of professionals guarantees that they will be able to find and fix any underlying issues.
The age of the Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage due to wear and other external elements. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement, or if more simple solutions such as hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances like broken glass or chemicals that require special attention. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes confiding this task to qualified experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Regular maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from forming. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as not flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blocking completely.
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 techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to address specific issues properly.
Our licensed professionals will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid times, while cleaning up after the work 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 |
Common Questions and Answers
How do I know when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY techniques like plunges and drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results It’s time to seek professional help. Other indicators include sinks that aren’t draining as fast as well as odors of foul smells emanating from the drains, loud gurgling sounds along with water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in getting rid of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you are getting safe and effective solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any permanent damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains can result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage burst pipes, mold growth as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods employed by plumbing professionals to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines that eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking down debris.
How much will it cost to engage a plumbing firm similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing an obstruction in the drain is contingent on the severity of the blockage is, which kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g., hydro jetting or snaking) and how easily you are to the drain system. Contact us at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or set up an appointment so that we can decide which methods are best suited to your particular situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain situation in the dark, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Unblock Your Pipes Effortlessly: A Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is Essential for Maintaining Clean and Healthy Environment?
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Conquering Stubborn Clogs with High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- Don't Let Clogged Pipes Ruins Your Day: Tricks to Try Out