Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can disrupt our daily life. Although most of us attempt to fix the issue by ourselves but there are certain blockages that require professional assistance. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of removing blockages on your own or getting help from a professional.
Key Takeaways
- A few minor blockages are easily cleared by simple techniques at home
- Before trying any of the solutions ensure you have the correct tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling Water, Baking Soda
How do you unblock a drain?
Some minor blockages can be removed using simple techniques at home. If you spot any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these techniques before calling professionals:
Sinks and bathtubs that are slow draining
If water is not going down the drain as fast like it ought to, then there may be a slight blockage. Try using a plunger to remove any debris clogging up the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
The smell that is emanating from your tub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair which is causing the obstruction. Pour boiling water with vinegar into the bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air is trapped in your pipes as a result of a clog, it causes popping sounds as water flows down in the drain. Baking soda and a hot water solution as well as vinegar to unblock any food particles that have accumulated around and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions, make sure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some effective ways to help you clear obstacles:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will help melt off solids such as soap as well as grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction that occurs when mix Baking Soda as well as Vinegar will loosen all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Discharge Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove obstructions that are more severe when plungers and boiling water fail.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the blockage by suctioning this material from the drain directly.
When is it time to call in professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY methods, and the issue persists, then it’s time to involve the help of a professional. Here are some instances that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The cause of the blockages could not have been fixed correctly. The hiring of a professional team will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Older Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and other external elements. A professional can tell if your pipe requires replacement or more straightforward solutions like the hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials such as broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you do not want to put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, consider the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. Routine maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from forming. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries in the toilet, putting greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV examinations can stop 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 utilize the latest technology and methods such as hydrojetting and cameras that are inspected by CCTV to guarantee high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water that are angled to be suitable to various plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to fix specific problems properly.
Our certified experts will efficiently work on site while keeping social distance during these Covid moments while cleaning up after the task is complete.
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 |
Common Questions and Answers
How do I determine if I need professional help to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY methods like plunging or using drain cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success Then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include sinks that aren’t draining as fast and odors that smell foul coming from drains, loud gurgling sounds and water backup.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners for getting rid of obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY techniques before using potentially harmful chemicals. Employing a professional plumber will ensure that you are getting secure and efficient solutions that aren’t you or your family members to harm.
Are blocked drains causing any permanent damage to my home?
In fact, water drains that are blocked could cause long-lasting damage including water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold and sewage backups, or even foundation damage. Consulting a professional at the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some techniques used by plumbers to get rid of blocked drains?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting or breaking down the pieces of debris.
How much does it cost to employ a plumbing service like 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, which kind of method is needed to clear the blockage (e.g., Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how accessible you are to the drain system. We recommend contacting one of our representatives at Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone, or make an appointment to ensure we can figure out what alternatives are the most effective for your situation.
Don’t make your clogged drain issue untreated, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- End Blocked Drains Immediately: Professional Tips to Try Today
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business� Plumbing Issues?
- Methods to Unblock a Bathroom Drain: The Step-by-Step Solution Necessary
- Powerful Guidance for Clearing a Blocked Drain
- What to Know about Pipe Relining Services for Blocked Drains
- Everything You Need to Know About Unblocking Drains and Avoiding Plumbing Problems
- When to Call a Professional for Blocked Drains: A Guide
- Letting You See What's Hiding Beneath Your Prospective Property: The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection