Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our everyday lives. While most of us try to fix the issue on our own however, there are some blockages that need professional assistance. In this post we will look at the pros and cons of clearing blocked drains on your own versus getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before beginning any work make sure you have the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What is the best time to clean a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be removed using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of these signs, you could try using these methods prior to calling professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as swiftly the way it is supposed to there could be a small blockage. Try using a plunger to get rid of any debris blocking the drain.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your tub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair which is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar in your sink or bathtub to break up any residue that has accumulated.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes as a result of the blockage, it produces noises that bubble as water flows through into the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solution and vinegar, you can clear the food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before trying any method ensure you have the right tools on fingertips: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to remove obstructions:
Boiling Water
The addition of hot water directly to the sink will help melt away any solids, such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda and Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove larger blockages if plungers or boiling water fail.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Utilize dry or wet vacuums to clear the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is it the best time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the problem persists It’s time to engage the help of a professional. Here are a few situations that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The root of the blockages could not have been fixed correctly. Employing a professional team ensures that they can uncover and fix any underlying issues.
Age of Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage due to wear and environmental factors. Experts can determine if your plumbing system requires replacement or more straightforward solutions like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to risk injury or damage to your pipes, consider leaving this job to certified professionals.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Routine maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making lifestyle changes such as refraining from flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances in sinks, and having a regular CCTV examinations can stop obstructions completely.
Why Should You Choose Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Perth . We utilize the latest techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that ensure quality results with no future problems.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us an inside look at the root of the problem within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues effectively.
Our experts who are licensed will work on-site efficiently while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments, and cleaning up after the task 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
What can I do to determine if I need professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning products but have not had any success is it time to get professional assistance. Other indicators include sinks that aren’t draining as fast as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, sounds of gurgling, or water back up.
Is it safe to employ chemical drain cleaners in getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you and the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY techniques before chemical cleaners that could be harmful to the environment. A professional plumber can ensure that you will receive safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Do blocked drains cause permanent damage to my home?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage burst pipes, mold growth in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time will prevent costly damages.
What are some methods employed by plumbing professionals to clear blocked drains?
Professional plumbers employ various techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines that eliminate blockages by cutting into or breaking down the particles.
How much will it cost to hire a plumbing company similar to Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing of a drain that has become blocked is contingent upon factors such as how severe the blockage is, what kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how easily your drainage system is. We recommend contacting us at Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone, or set up an appointment so that we know what options will work best for your particular situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation in the dark, contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- 10 Tricks for Keeping Your Drains Blockage-Free
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- The Pros and Cons of DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- Everything You Need to Know About Unblocking Drains and Avoiding Plumbing Problems
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally
- Powerful Guidance for Clearing a Blocked Drain
