Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a typical issue that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While we tend to try to tackle the issue on our own, some stubborn blockages need professional help. In this article we’ll look at the pros and cons of clearing the drains that are blocked by yourself instead of seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be cleared with simple home remedies
- Before you attempt any solution be sure to have the right tools on your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to unblock a drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you are noticing any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these methods prior to calling professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If water is not going down the drain as swiftly that it would, there could be a small blockage. Try using a plunger to eliminate any debris clogging up the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
A sour smell coming from your tub or sink could be a sign of food particles or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar in the bathtub or sink to break up any residue that has accumulated.
The sound of gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes because of a clog, it causes popping sounds as water flows through the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solution and vinegar, you can clear any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways to clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in your sink can aid in melting away solids such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by the mixture of Baking Soda and Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Make use of Snakes or Augers to clear larger blockages if plungers or boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the obstruction by sucking this material from the drain directly.
When is it the best time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and your blockage is still there you need to engage a professional. Here are a few situations that require seeking professional expertise:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages could not have been addressed correctly. Engaging a team of experts makes sure that they find and correct any underlying problems.
Age of Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage caused by wear and other external elements. Experts can determine if your pipeline needs replacement or more straightforward solutions such as Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) is enough.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specialized care. If you do not want to cause injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. A regular maintenance helps prevent severe clogs from developing. Making changes to your lifestyle, such as not flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages completely.
Why 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 technology and methods such as hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee excellent results, with no issues.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an insight into the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues properly.
Our licensed professionals can be on site efficiently, while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the work is done.
| 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 Questions
How do I determine whether I require professional assistance to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY techniques like plunging and using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success, then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include slow draining of sinks or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from the drains, loud gurgling sounds or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to the removal of blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY techniques before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. A professional plumber can ensure that you get reliable and safe solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my property?
Unblocking drains can cause serious damage over the long term such as water damage, burst pipes, mold growth as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting which utilizes high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines which clear obstructions by cutting through or breaking up pieces of debris.
How much does it cost to hire a plumbing company like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors like how serious the blockage is and what kind of method is needed for unblocking (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how accessible your drainage system is. It is recommended to call the team of Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone, or schedule an appointment so that we can determine what options will work best for your particular situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged situation helpless, contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Expert Tips on Choosing the Best Pipe Relining Material
- Clear Your Drains with This Amazing DIY Guide Which is Effortless to Implement
- Letting You See What's Hiding Beneath Your Prospective Property: The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Discovering the Reasons Causes Blocked Drainage Systems
- End Blocked Drains Immediately: Professional Tips to Try Today
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- Stop the Block: A Decade of Tips for Preventing Blocked Drains in Your Home
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
