DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common household problem that could be caused by a variety of items, such as hair, soap scum, grease and trees. Although many prefer fixing the issue at home however, there are occasions that it is better to seek help from professionals. In this post, we’ll explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when to consult a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Slow draining, gurgling noises and a foul smell indicate the need to wash your drain.
- Boiling water, baking soda and plunger along with drain snake, are DIY ways to clear a blocked drain.
- Always read instructions and wear gloves if necessary in attempting DIY techniques.
- Ask for help from a professional Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber plumber if there are multiple clogs, no improvement following DIY efforts or blocked drains that are not visible due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections to find particular blockages and avoid unnecessary repair costs.
Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning
Before starting the cleaning process, you must to know if your drain is in need of being cleaned up in the first place. Here are some indications which indicate that your drain requires attention:
Slow Draining
If you notice that water will take longer usual in time to drain or doesn’t drain completely, it’s time to look into. If your sink isn’t draining as fast as it should, or shower could be a sign of a blockage in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
A gurgling sound emanating from drains typically indicate air getting trapped in the plumbing system. This can lead to blockages and should be looked at as soon as possible.
Foul Odors
The buildup of organic matter could result in unpleasant smells emanating out of your pipes. If you notice something odd emanating from your sink or bathtub, it’s likely that it’s time to wash.
Do-it-yourself drain cleaning is a good idea.
There are several methods of getting rid of a blocked drain, which you can attempt on your own.
Boiling Water
Boiling water can dissolve most organic material, which causes blockages to pipes but is not used in conjunction with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts, producing fizzing acids that cause any clogs that have been causing problems to be loosened up; pour boiling water through afterward for the best results.
Plunger
Plungers are a great solution to minor blockages, specifically for blocked sinks or toilets but ensure that there isn’t any chemical residue in the fixture before using the plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears to be stuck a few inches in the bowels, you may employ drain snakes. Insert it into the drain and slowly turn while pushing it outwards until the blockage is cleared.
When attempting any DIY cleaning methods, always read the instructions carefully and use protective equipment such as gloves whenever necessary.
When to call to a Professional
Although DIY methods can be beneficial in certain circumstances but there are instances when you need the assistance of an experienced Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home are backed up at regular intervals, don’t try to address this issue on your own. It could be because of issues within your main sewer line and require the expertise of a professional plumber.
There is no improvement after DIY attempts.
You’ve tried every option, but nothing appears to work or if there is regular blockages, there may be more significant plumbing issues requiring expert assistance prior to causing major damage.
Unseen Blockages
External factors like tree roots could cause blockages, which are not noticed until the issue becomes severe. Professionals perform CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the exact location of the blockage, eliminating unnecessary repair costs by directly tackling the problem without guesswork.
Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning | When To DIY Drain Cleaning | When To Call a Professional |
---|---|---|
Slow Draining | Boiling water | Multiple Clogs |
Gurgling Noises | Baking Soda and Vinegar | No Improvement After DIY Attempts |
Foul Odors | Plunger | Unseen Blockages |
Drain Snake |
Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.
Common Questions & Answers
How can I tell if I need to call an experienced plumber?
If you’ve tried several DIY methods and the drain is still blocked, it’s time to bring an expert in. Signs that you should call the plumber include frequent blockages, slow drainage, bubbling from the sink or toilet when water is run through a different source, and unpleasant odors emanating from your drains.
Are there any risks to trying to clear my own drain?
Yes, attempting to unclog your own drain can actually cause more harm than beneficial. The use of harsh chemicals and a poor tool can cause pipe damage, leading to costly repairs in the future. In addition, if a blockage is not dealt with properly, it can lead to the occurrence of sewage backups as well as health hazards.
How can I make DIY ways to unblock my drain?
A few DIY methods to clear drains include using a plumbing snake or plunger pouring boiling liquid down the drain or making a mix of baking soda with vinegar. While these methods may work for small clogs, it is important to exercise caution in attempting them.
Can I employ chemical drain cleaners at my own?
While chemical drain cleaners may initially work, they may affect older pipes and weaken them. Additionally, many chemical cleaners contain harsh chemicals that could be harmful to both people as well as pets.
Why should I select Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for my blocked drainage needs located in Melbourne ?
The team at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber , we specialize in unblocking blocked drains quickly and cost-effectively. Our team of trained professionals uses only the latest techniques in surveillance cameras as well as hydro jetting machines to diagnose and effectively solve your problems while leaving your property spotless and free of clutter. Additionally, since we’re a local company servicing Melbourne , we’re always nearby if you encounter any plumbing problems!
Conclusion
There are instances when the DIY method can be effective in cleaning drain clogs. However experts have the experience and equipment to evaluate the root of the issue, thereby preventing further problems ensuring optimal cleanliness every time. If these pros seem like the ideal solution for your home to have an ideal sanitary environment and you are looking for their services, then contacting them might be the best option. Call the Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber plumbers for timely efficient solutions that don’t require any effort or hassle on your behalf.
Additional Information
- A Hassle-Free Detailed Manual to Unclog Your Jammed Shower Drain
- Unblock Your Pipes Effortlessly: A Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Get rid of your clogged drain situation with the correct plumber
- Examining the Reasons Behind Blocked Drains
- Why You Need CCTV Drain Inspection Services
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: Plumbing Tips & Solutions