Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our daily life. While many of us try to tackle the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that require professional assistance. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains by yourself versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be cleared with simple methods at home
- Before trying any of the solutions be sure to are equipped with the proper tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling the water Baking Soda
When should you attempt to clean a blocked drain?
Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you are noticing any of the following signs You can try these methods prior to calling experts:
Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as fast like it ought to, there could be a small blockage. Use a plunger to push out any debris blocking the drain.
Unpleasant odors
A bad smell emanating from your bathtub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair, causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into the bathtub or sink to eliminate any residue.
The sound of gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes because of a clog, it causes noises that bubble as water flows down in the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions, make sure you have the proper tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in your sink can help melt off solids such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda with Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers for obstructions that are more severe when plungers and boiling water fail.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking the material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques, but the issue persists It’s time to seek out an expert. Here are a few instances that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The root cause for the blockages might not have been properly addressed. Hiring a team of professionals guarantees that they will be able to find and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Older Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and external influences. A professional can tell if the pipeline is in need of replacement or if simpler solutions like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Certain clogs are contaminated with hazardous substances such as broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, consider the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. The regular maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making lifestyle changes such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products down the toilet, greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages completely.
Why choose Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Melbourne . We utilize the latest techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water at specific angles suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with an inside view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, which allows us to tackle specific issues effectively.
Our fully licensed experts can be on site efficiently, while maintaining social distancing during these Covid times, while cleaning up after the work 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
What can I do to determine when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a clogged drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY methods such as plunging and using drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results is it time to consult a professional. Other signs include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from drains, noises of gurgling as well as water back-up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners to getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY methods before resorting to chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you are getting safe and effective solutions without you or your family members to harm.
Do blocked drains cause lasting damage to my property?
Unblocking drains can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage, burst pipes, mold growth in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can avoid costly damages.
What are some techniques used by plumbers to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines which clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking down debris.
How much is it to contract a plumbing company similar to Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon factors like how serious the obstruction is, what kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g., hydro jetting or snaking) and how easy access to your drains are. Contact one of our representatives at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial review over the phone or set up an appointment so that we can determine what options will work best for your particular situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged issue untreated, call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- 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
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
- An Easy DIY Guide to Unblocking Your Clogged Drains
- Don't Panic: Tips for Handling a Blocked Toilet
- Don't Let a Clogged Drain Put a Damper on Your Business: Get Regular Inspections
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Don't wait! Find the finest plumber to tackle your blocked drain crisis
