DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common household problem that could be caused by a variety of things, such as hair soap scum, soap grease, and even tree roots. Many people prefer fixing the issue on their own however, there are occasions when it’s best to call an expert. In this article, we’ll explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when to consult an experienced plumber.
Key Takeaways
- The slow draining, the gurgling sound and a foul smell indicate the time to clean your drain.
- Boiling water, baking soda and plunger along with drain snake, are DIY methods for clearing the drain.
- Always read instructions and wear gloves when attempting DIY techniques.
- Get help from a professional Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber if there are multiple clogs but no improvement after DIY attempts, or unseen blockages caused by external factors such as tree roots.
- The experts conduct CCTV drainage inspections to identify specific blockage location preventing unnecessary repair cost.
How to tell if your drain needs cleaning
Before you begin your cleaning routine, it is important to identify if your drain needs to be cleaned at all. Below are a few indicators which indicate that your drain requires attention:
Slow Drainage
If you’re noticing that water has taken longer than usual for it to drain or doesn’t drain in any way, it’s time to check. The slow draining of your sink or shower could indicate that there’s a blockage forming in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
The sounds of drains gurgling typically indicate air trapped within the plumbing system. This may result in obstructions and should be investigated as soon as is possible.
Foul Odors
The accumulation of organic matter could produce unpleasant odors into your plumbing. If you notice something odd emanating from your bathroom sink and shower area, then it’s likely the time to get your bathroom cleaned.
How to DIY Drain Cleaning
There are many methods for getting rid of a blocked drain, which you can try on your own:
Boiling Water
Boiling water will dissolve a lot of organic material causing pipe blockage but cannot be used with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A mixture of baking soda and vinegar reacts, producing fizzing acids that cause any stubborn clogs to loosen up; pour boiling water into the clogs afterward to get optimal results.
Plunger
Plungers can work wonders with minor clogs especially for blocked sinks or toilets but ensure that there isn’t any chemical residue within the fixture prior to using a the plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears to be wedged just only a few inches deep it, you could utilize drain snakes; insert it into the drain and slowly turn while pushing it forward until the obstruction dislodges.
If you’re attempting any DIY cleaning technique, be sure to read the directions carefully and use protective equipment such as gloves where necessary.
When should you call for a Professional
While DIY techniques can be successful in certain instances but there are instances when you should seek help from an experienced Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home have a tendency to overflow over time, don’t attempt to address this issue on your own. It could be because of issues within the main sewer line which require the expertise of a professional plumber.
There is no improvement after DIY attempts.
If you’ve tried everything you’re not getting results or if you’re seeing regular blockages, there may be more significant plumbing problems that require professional assistance before major damages are caused.
Unseen Blockages
Sometimes external entities like tree roots may cause blockages that remain unnoticed until the issue gets serious. Professionals perform CCTV drainage inspections to pinpoint the specific clog location cutting down on repair costs by solving the issue immediately without any 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.
FAQs
What do I do to determine what I should do if I have to call an experienced plumber?
If you’ve tried several DIY methods but your drain remains blocked then it’s time to call in the professionals. Some signs that you need to contact plumbing experts include repeated obstructions, slow draining, bubbling in the sink or toilet, when the water is pumped through a different source, and unpleasant odors emanating from your drains.
Are there any risks to attempting to unclog the drain on my own?
It’s true that trying to unblock your drain could create more harm than it is. Chemicals that are harsh and ineffective tools can cause pipe damage, leading to expensive repairs in the future. Additionally, if a blockage is not handled correctly it can lead to sewage backups and potential health risks.
Which are the best DIY methods to clear my drain?
A few DIY methods for clearing drains include using a plumbing snake or plunger pouring boiling hot liquid down the drain or mixing vinegar, baking soda, and baking soda. While these strategies may work in cases of minor clogs it’s crucial to be cautious when you try these methods.
Do I have to utilize chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners could be effective initially, they could damage older pipes over time and cause them to weaken. Furthermore, many chemical cleaners contain harsh chemicals that could be harmful to both people as well as pets.
Why should I select Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for my blocked drains needs to Perth ?
At Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing , we specialize in clearing blocked drains fast and cost-effectively. Our staff of highly trained experts makes use of the latest technological advances in cameras for CCTV and hydro jetting equipment to pinpoint and effectively solve your problems while leaving your property spotless and free of clutter. Plus, as a local company servicing Perth , we’re always available should you face any plumbing problems!
Conclusion
There are occasions when the DIY method is effective in cleaning drainage clogs. However professionals have experience and equipment to evaluate the root of the issue, thereby preventing further problems to ensure optimal hygiene every time. If the professionals you are looking for seem like the ideal solution for your home to have an ideal sanitary environment and you are looking for their services, then contacting them could be your best bet. Reach out to Our Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumbers for timely effective solutions without any hassle or worry on your part.
Additional Information
- Fix your blocked drain crisis with the top plumber available
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- Bid Farewell to Clogged Drains with These Useful Methods
- High Pressure Drain Cleaning: The Best Solution You Need
- Stop the Block: A Decade of Tips for Preventing Blocked Drains in Your Home
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- When Should You Call A Professional To Clear Your Blocked Drain?
- End Blocked Drains Immediately: Professional Tips to Try Today
- Methods to Unblock a Bathroom Drain: The Step-by-Step Solution Necessary
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties