DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common problem for homeowners and can be caused by various factors, including hair soap scum grease or even tree roots. Although many individuals opt for fixing the issue on their own however, there are occasions that you should contact a professional. In this article, we’ll examine the best times to DIY drain cleaning and when you should seek help from a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Slow draining, gurgling noises and foul odors are indicators the time to clean your drain.
- Boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, plunger, along with drain snake, are DIY ways to clear an obstruction in drains.
- Always follow the instructions and wear a pair of gloves when you are attempting DIY methods.
- Seek help from a professional Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber if there are multiple clogs but no improvement even after DIY efforts, or blocked drains that are not visible due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Experts perform CCTV drainage inspections in order to determine the particular blockages and avoid unnecessary repair cost.
How to tell if your drain needs cleaning
Before starting cleansing, be sure be aware of whether your drain should be cleaned at all. Here are some indicators which indicate that your drain requires attention:
Slow Drainage
If you notice that water takes longer than usual or is taking longer to drain or does not drain completely, it’s time to check. The slow draining of your sink or shower could mean there is an obstruction forming within your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
The sounds of drains gurgling can be a sign of air that has gotten trapped in the plumbing system. This could lead to obstructions and should be investigated as soon as it is possible.
Foul Odors
The buildup of organic matter can cause unpleasant odors to emanate from your drains. If you smell something funky emanating from your sink or bath, it’s likely the time to get your bathroom cleaned.
How to DIY Drain Cleaning
There are a variety of methods for unclogging a blocked drain which you can attempt on your own.
Boiling Water
Boiling water dissolves most organic material causing obstruction in the pipe, however it is not employed with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts, producing fizzing acids that cause the clogs that are stubborn to break up; pour boiling water into the clogs afterward to get optimal results.
Plunger
Plungers work wonders for minor clogs especially for blocked toilets or sinks. But make sure that there’s no chemical residues present in the fixture before using plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears to be lodged at a distance of a few inches the drain, employ drain snakes. Insert it and gradually rotate while pushing it further until the obstruction dislodges.
When you attempt any DIY cleaning technique, read the instructions carefully and use protective equipment such as gloves whenever necessary.
When to call for a Professional
While DIY methods may be beneficial in certain circumstances but there are instances when you need assistance from a professional Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If several drains within your home have a tendency to overflow over time, don’t attempt to fix the issue yourself. It could be because of issues within the main sewer line which require the skills of a professional plumber.
No Improvement After DIY Attempts
When you’ve attempted everything, but nothing appears to work or you’re experiencing persistent blockages, there could be more serious plumbing issues requiring expert assistance before major damages are caused.
Unseen Blockages
Sometimes external entities like tree roots may cause blockages that are not noticed until the issue is severe. Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the location of the clog and eliminating unnecessary repair costs by directly tackling the problem 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 can I do to tell if I need to call to a plumber who is reputable?
If you’ve tried several DIY methods and the drain is still blocked and clogged, you need to call in the pros. Some signs that you need to contact a plumber include recurring blockages, slow drainage, bubbling in the sink or toilet in the event that water is coming through a different source, and unpleasant smells coming from your drains.
Are there any potential risks attempting to unclog my own drain?
Yes, attempting to unclog the drain in your home can cause more harm than the good. Use of harmful chemicals and inadequate tools can cause pipe damage, leading to costly repairs in the future. If a blockage is not dealt with properly, it could lead to sewer backups, which could pose health risks.
What are some DIY methods to clear my drain?
A few DIY ways to unclog drains involve using a plumbing snake or plunger, pouring boiling water down the drain, or making a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and baking soda. While these options may be effective in cases of minor clogs it’s important to be careful when attempting these methods.
Do I have to 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. Furthermore, many chemical cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause harm to people as well as pets.
Why should I pick Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for my blocked drains needs within Perth ?
At Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing , we specialize in clearing blocked drains swiftly and cost-effectively. Our professional team employs only the most modern technological advances in cameras for CCTV as well as hydro jetting equipment to identify and effectively solve your problems whilst leaving your property clean and mess-free. Plus, as an established local business serving Perth , we’re always close by should you experience any plumbing emergency!
Conclusion
There are instances where the DIY method can be effective in cleaning drainage clogs. However experts have the experience and tools to assess underlying problems preventing future troubles ensuring optimal cleanliness every time. If these pros seem like the perfect solution for your home and an ideal sanitary environment getting their help is a good option. Contact Our Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing plumbers for timely effective solutions without hassle or worry on your part.
Additional Information
- Discover Why Blocked Drain Jetting is the Only Solution You Need
- Your Ultimate Guide to Clearing and Unblocking Clogged Drains with Ease
- Measures to Spot & Confirm a Blocked Drain
- Everything You Need to Know About Unblocking Drains and Avoiding Plumbing Problems
- End Blocked Drains Immediately: Professional Tips to Try Today
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
- Methods to Unblock a Bathroom Drain: The Step-by-Step Solution Necessary
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business� Plumbing Issues?
- Plumbers' Recommended Picks for Unclogging Pipes: A Comprehensive Handbook
- Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally