DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional
Clogged drains are a common problem for homeowners and could be caused by a variety of things, such as hair soap scum grease, and the roots of trees. Many people prefer fixing the issue on their own but there are instances that you should call professionals. In this article, we will explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when to consult a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Slow draining, gurgling noises, and foul odors indicate the time to clean your drain.
- Boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, plunger, as well as drain snakes are all DIY methods to unclog an obstruction in drains.
- Always read the directions and wear gloves when attempting DIY methods.
- Seek help from a professional Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber if there are several clogs that do not show improvement after DIY attempts or unclear blockages caused due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Experts perform CCTV drainage inspections to pinpoint particular blockages and avoid unnecessary repair expenses.
A Sign Your Drain Needs Cleaning
Before starting the cleaning process, it is important to identify if your drain requires to be cleaned at all. Below are a few indicators that tell you your drain is in need of attention:
Slow Drainage
If you notice that your water has taken longer than normal for it to drain or does not drain at all, it’s time to examine. The slow draining of your sink or shower may indicate a clog forming in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Sounds of gurgling coming from drains can be a sign of air trapped within the plumbing system. This may result in blockages and should be addressed as quickly as it’s possible.
Foul Odors
The accumulation of organic matter can create unpleasant odors that emanate into your plumbing. If you smell something funky emanating from your bathroom sink or bathtub, it’s the time to get your bathroom cleaned.
When 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 can dissolve most organic materials, which can cause blockages in pipes, but it cannot be employed in conjunction with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A mixture of baking soda and vinegar reacts producing fizzing acid causing any blockages that remain stubborn to fall away up. Pour boiling water in the following step for perfect results.
Plunger
Plungers can be a boon for minor blockages, specifically for blocked toilets and sinks, but make sure that there’s no chemical residue within the fixture prior to using a plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears to be lodged a few inches in the bowels, you may utilize drain snakes. Insert it into the drain and slowly turn while pushing it to the point that the obstruction is removed.
If you are attempting any DIY cleaning methods, always be sure to read the directions carefully and wear protective equipment like gloves when needed.
When To Call for a Professional
While DIY methods may be successful in certain instances but there are instances when you should seek help from a licensed Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains in your home backup over time, don’t attempt to resolve this yourself. It could be because of issues with the main sewer line which require the expertise of a skilled plumber.
No improvement after DIY tries
You’ve tried every option, but you’re not getting results or if you’re seeing frequent blockages, it could be more serious plumbing problems that require professional assistance prior to significant damage occurring.
Unseen Blockages
Sometimes external entities like tree roots can cause blockages that remain unnoticed until the issue is severe. Professionals perform CCTV drainage inspections that pinpoint the location of the clog and to avoid costly repairs through tackling the issue 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.
Common Questions & Answers
What can I do to tell if I need to call the services of a licensed plumber?
If you’ve tried numerous DIY methods and the drain is still blocked, it’s time to bring the experts in. The signs to call plumbing experts include repeated obstructions, slow drainage, bubbling in the sink or in the toilet in the event that water is coming by another source, as well as unpleasant odors emanating from the drains.
Are there any potential risks trying to clean me own sewer?
Yes, attempting to unclog your drain on your own can create more harm than good. Use of harmful chemicals and inadequate tools can harm pipes and lead to expensive repairs down the line. Additionally, if a blockage is not treated properly, it could cause water backups and health hazards.
Which are the best DIY techniques to free my drain?
A few DIY methods for unclogging drains are to use the plunger or plumbing snake pouring boiling liquid down the drain, or mixing baking soda with vinegar. While these options may be effective for minor clogs, it’s important to be careful when attempting these methods.
Can I employ chemical drain cleaners at my own?
While chemical drain cleaners can work initially, they can damage older pipes over time and cause them to weaken. Additionally, many chemical cleaning products contain harsh substances that can be harmful to humans as well as pets.
Why should I pick Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for my blocked drains in Perth ?
In Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing , we specialize in clearing blocked drains fast and cost-effectively. Our expert team makes use of the latest technologies in the field of CCTV cameras as well as hydro jetting machines to detect and resolve your problems and leave your property tidy and clutter-free. Furthermore, as a local company serving Perth , we’re always nearby if you encounter any plumbing problems!
Conclusion
There are instances where the DIY approach is successful in cleaning the drains of clogs. But professionals have experience and the tools to identify the root cause of problems, and prevent future issues to ensure optimal hygiene at all times. If these pros seem like the perfect solution for your home and the perfect sanitary environment, seeking out their services could be your best bet. Call our Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumbers for timely effective solutions without any hassle or worries on your part.
Additional Information
- High Pressure Drain Cleaning: The Best Solution You Need
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- 10 Tricks for Keeping Your Drains Blockage-Free
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Measures to Spot & Confirm a Blocked Drain
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- Your Ultimate Guide to Clearing and Unblocking Clogged Drains with Ease
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumbing Solutions and Tips
- What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
