Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While many of us try to tackle the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that require professional help. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before beginning any work make sure you have the right tools on your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods for clearing drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What is the best time to unblock a drain?
Certain minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you could try using these techniques before calling experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water is not going through the drains as quickly the way it is supposed to there might be a minor blockage. Use a plunger to get rid of any debris clogging up the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could be a sign of food particles or hair that is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your sink or bathtub to remove any buildup of residue.
Noises of gurgling
When air gets trapped in your pipes as a result of an obstruction, it can cause the sound of bubbling as water flows through to the drain. By using baking soda in combination with hot water solution followed by vinegar can unclog any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before beginning any project be sure that you have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves plunger, baking soda vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt away solids like soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by mixing Baking Soda and Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove more serious blockages when plungers or boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the blockage by suctioning the blockage material out of the drain directly.
When is the right time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques but your blockage is still there the issue is time to engage professionals. Here are a few situations that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. Employing a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage due to wear and external factors. The experts can help you determine whether your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler options like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass or chemicals which require special care. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, think about leaving this job to certified experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. A regular maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries down the toilet, greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blocking 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 utilize the latest techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting utilizes high-pressure streams of water angled at specific angles, which are ideal for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an insight into the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to deal with specific issues efficiently.
Our fully licensed experts can be on site efficiently, while keeping social distance during these Covid moments, and cleaning up once the job 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
How can I tell that I require help from a professional to unblock a clogged drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY solutions like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success is it time to seek professional help. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from drains, gurgling sounds, along with water backup.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners to the removal of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY methods before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you receive the most effective and safe solutions, without you or your family members to harm.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains can result in serious long-term damage like water damage, burst pipes, mold growth and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can prevent costly damage.
What are the methods used 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, which eliminate blockages by cutting into or cutting up pieces of debris.
How much will it cost to hire a plumbing company like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon factors such as how severe the blockage is and what kind of method is needed to remove the blockage (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easily your drainage system is. We recommend contacting one of our representatives at Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial evaluation over the phone or schedule an appointment so we can figure out what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain situation helpless, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
- Discover the best clogged drain solution you need today
- Maximizing the Long-Term Benefits of Pipe Relining by Picking the Ideal Material
- Easy and Safe Ways to Get Rid of a Stubborn Shower Drain Blockage
- From A to Z Tips for Cleaning Your Drains and Maintaining a Clog-Free House
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- 5 Tips to Keep Your Drains Flowing
