Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem which can affect our daily life. While we tend to try to solve the problem by ourselves but there are certain blockages that require professional assistance. In this post we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be removed with simple methods at home
- Before beginning any work ensure you have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drains that are blocked include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to unblock a drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the signs below You can try these techniques prior to calling experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water is not going through the drains as quickly that it would, there might be a minor blockage. Try using a plunger to get rid of any debris that is clogging the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A sour smell coming from your tub or sink may indicate that food or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water with vinegar in your sink or bathtub to dissolve any residue buildup.
The sound of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes due to the blockage, it produces popping sounds as water flows through into the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water as well as vinegar to unblock any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are the most common DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before trying any method, make sure you have the right tools on disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some proven methods to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mix Baking Soda along with Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers for obstructions that are more severe when plungers and boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning the blockage material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and your blockage is still there It’s time to seek out the help of a professional. Here are a few scenarios where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of your blockages might not have been addressed correctly. The hiring of a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Older Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage due to wear and external factors. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or more straightforward options like the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require specific care. If you don’t want cause injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained professionals.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. The regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing hygiene products down the drain, putting grease substances into sinks, having regular CCTV examinations can stop blockages completely.
Why choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Perth . We use the most modern techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us an inside look at the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to address specific issues correctly.
Our experts who are licensed can be on site efficiently, while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up once the job is 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
How can I tell whether I require professional assistance to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried basic DIY methods like plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success It’s time to consult a professional. Other signs include slow draining of sinks or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from the drains, noises of gurgling and water backup.
Is it safe to make use of chemical drain cleaners for clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you are getting the most effective and safe solutions, without you or your family members to danger.
Could blocked drains cause long-term damage to my property?
Yes, blocked drains can cause long-lasting damage including water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate blockages by cutting through or breaking down the obstructions.
What is the cost to contract a plumbing company like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing the drain that is blocked depends on the severity of the obstruction is, what kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how easy access the drainage device is. Contact us at Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone or set up an appointment so that we can determine what options will work best for your specific situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain issue untreated, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- High Pressure Drain Cleaning: The Best Solution You Need
- When to Call a Professional for Blocked Drains: A Guide
- Fix your blocked drain crisis with the top plumber available
- Stop the Block: A Decade of Tips for Preventing Blocked Drains in Your Home
- Plumbing Tips to Maintain Your Pipes Flowing Smoothly
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- 10 Tricks for Keeping Your Drains Blockage-Free
