Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a regular issue that can disrupt our everyday life. While many of us try to solve the problem on our own, some stubborn blockages require professional assistance. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be removed with simple home remedies
- Before beginning any work be sure to have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY techniques for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling the water Baking Soda
How do you clear a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you notice any of the following signs You can try these methods prior to calling experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If the water isn’t moving down the drain as fast like it ought to, then there may be a slight blockage. Make use of a plunger remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Infuriating odors
A strong smell emanating from your sink or bathtub may indicate that food or hair, causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Gurgling noises
When air is trapped inside your pipes because of the blockage, it produces popping sounds as water flows through into the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solutions, followed by vinegar can unclog the food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY techniques for clearing blocked drains?
Before trying any method be sure that you are equipped with the appropriate tools at hand: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will help melt away solids like soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when the mixture of Baking Soda along with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers for more serious blockages when plungers fail and boiling water fails.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning this material from the drain in a direct manner.
Is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques, but the problem persists you need to involve an expert. Here are a few scenarios that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages could not have been dealt with correctly. The hiring of a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and correct any underlying problems.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage due to wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipeline needs replacement, or if more simple options like hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you do not want to risk injury or damage to your pipes the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is better to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Regular maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as refraining from flushing hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid obstructions completely.
Why Should You Choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Melbourne . We employ the most advanced techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure quality results with no future problems.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues effectively.
Our fully licensed experts will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid times 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
What can I do to determine when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY techniques like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results Then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast, foul odors coming from drains, sounds of gurgling, along with water backup.
Is it safe to make use of chemical drain cleaners for getting rid 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 techniques before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you receive safe and effective solutions without the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to danger.
Do blocked drains cause lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains can result in serious long-term damage including water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the techniques used by plumbers to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting into or breaking down particles.
How much does it cost to contract a plumbing company like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors such as how severe the blockage is and what kind of method is needed to remove the blockage (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how easily you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call our team at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone or make an appointment to ensure that we can determine what options will work best for your particular situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation in the dark, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- 5 Tips to Keep Your Drains Flowing
- Bid farewell to a Blocked Shower Drain with The following Comprehensive Guide
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- 10 Effortless Methods for Fixing a Clogged Drain
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- The Definitive Handbook to Getting Rid of Clogged Pipes: Which Plumbers Use
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services