Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our everyday life. While many of us try to tackle the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that need professional help. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains on your own versus seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages can be eliminated using simple techniques at home
- Before trying any of the solutions be sure to have the right tools on hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods to clear drainage obstructions include Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
How do you clean a blocked drain?
Some minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the signs below, you could try using these methods prior to calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain in the same speed like it ought to, there may be a slight blockage. You can try using a plunger push out any debris that is clogging the pipe.
Unpleasant odors
A strong smell emanating from your bathtub or sink may indicate that food or hair that is causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar in the bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes because of obstruction, it creates noises that bubble as water flows down to the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solution and vinegar, you can clear the food particles and hair.
What are some typical DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project, make sure you have the right tools on fingertips: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt off solids such as soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda with Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers or boiling water fail.
Dry and Wet Vacuum
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the obstruction by sucking the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the issue persists you need to involve an expert. Here are a few scenarios which require the assistance of a professional:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages might not have been fixed correctly. Hiring a team of professionals will ensure that they are able to identify the root of the problem and address it.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage caused by wear and other external elements. A professional can tell if the pipeline is in need of replacement, or if more simple solutions such as the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) can suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals that require specialized care. If you don’t wish to risk injury or damage to your pipes, consider leaving this job to certified experts.
Prevention is better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Routine maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making changes in your lifestyle such as not flushing hygiene products into the toilet, not dumping greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages altogether.
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 employ the most advanced equipment and techniques 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 angled at specific angles, which are ideal for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras give us the insider’s view of the root of the problem within pipes, which allows us to fix specific problems properly.
Our fully licensed experts will efficiently work on site while keeping a social distance throughout these Covid times while 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 Questions
How can I tell if I need professional help to unblock a clogged drain?
If you have tried basic DIY solutions like plunges and drain cleaning solutions but aren’t getting results Then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other signs include sinks that aren’t draining as fast as well as odors of foul smells emanating from drains, sounds of gurgling, as well as water back-up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to removing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be toxic and can be harmful to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you receive safe and effective solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to risk.
Do blocked drains cause long-term damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could cause serious damage over the long term including water damage, leaky pipes, the growth of mold in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the techniques used by plumbers to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams and drain snakes that clear blockages by cutting through or breaking down particles.
What is the cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear the drain that is blocked depends on factors like how serious the blockage is and what type of procedure is required for clearing the obstruction (e.g., hydro jetting or snaking) and how accessible your drainage system is. Contact our team at Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone, or schedule an appointment so we can figure out what methods are best suited to your specific situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain issue untreated, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Plumbing Tips to Maintain Your Pipes Flowing Smoothly
- Methods to Unblock a Bathroom Drain: The Step-by-Step Solution Necessary
- Stop the Block: A Decade of Tips for Preventing Blocked Drains in Your Home
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- Save Money with These Simple Drain Maintenance Techniques
- 10 Tricks for Keeping Your Drains Blockage-Free
- What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
