Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem which can affect our daily lives. While most of us try to fix the issue on our own but there are certain blockages that require professional assistance. In this post we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of removing blocked drains on your own versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Certain minor blockages can be removed with simple strategies at home
- Before trying any of the solutions be sure to have the appropriate tools at fingertips: plunger, gloves or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY methods for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to unblock a drain?
Some minor blockages can be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you observe any of the signs below then you can try these techniques prior to calling experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If water isn’t going down the drain as swiftly the way it is supposed to then there could be a small blockage. Use a plunger to eliminate any debris blocking the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A sour smell coming from your tub or sink could indicate food debris or hair that is causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar into your bathtub or sink to remove any buildup of residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
If air becomes trapped in your pipes as a result of a clog, it causes bubbling sounds as water goes through to the drain. Baking soda and a hot water, in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are the most common DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before you attempt any solution ensure you have the correct tools at hand: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly in your sink can help melt away any solids, such as soap or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mixing Baking Soda as well as Vinegar dislodges all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water do not work.
Vacuum Cleaner Wet/Dry
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is it time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but the blockage still persists you need to seek out professionals. Here are some instances that require seeking professional expertise:
Recurring Blockages
The root cause of the blockages could not have been addressed correctly. Employing a professional team ensures that they can uncover and resolve any issues that are underlying.
Age of Plumbing System
The older plumbing systems are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and external factors. The experts can help you determine whether your pipeline needs replacement or whether simpler solutions such as hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you do not want to be at risk of injury or damage to your pipes, you should consider the job being left to trained experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is better to prevent drains from becoming blocked rather than repair them. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries down the drain, putting grease substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV inspections, can avoid blockages altogether.
Why choose Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for Professional Assistance?
Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Adelaide . We employ the most advanced technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee top-quality results without problems.
- Hydrojetting uses high-pressure streams of water with specific angles that are suitable for different types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide us with the insider’s view of what’s causing the issue within pipes, which allows us to fix specific problems efficiently.
Our certified experts can be on site efficiently, while maintaining social distancing during 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 do I know whether I require professional assistance to unblock a drain?
If you’ve tried the basic DIY techniques like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions with no success It’s time to seek professional help. Other indicators include slow draining sinks, foul odors coming from drains, noises of gurgling as well as water back-up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous and harmful to both you as well as the environment. It is advisable to exhaust other DIY methods before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that you are getting secure and efficient solutions that aren’t placing yourself or the environment to risk.
Can blocked drains cause any permanent damage to my home?
Yes, blocked drains could result in long-term, serious damage such as water damage, burst pipes, mold growth as well as sewage backup and foundation damage. Getting help from a professional in the right time can avoid costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers use various methods including hydro jetting which uses high-pressure water streams and drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting through or cutting up obstructions.
What is the cost to contract a plumbing company similar to Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for clearing blocked drains?
The cost to clear the drain that is blocked depends on factors such as how severe the blockage is, what kind of method is needed to remove the blockage (e.g. Hydro jetting, or even snaking) and how easy access to your drains are. We recommend contacting one of our representatives at Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for an initial assessment over the phone, or book an appointment so that we can determine what options will work best for your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation helpless, contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber today for quality service.
Additional Information
- How to Fix a Shower Drain: The Step-by-Step Fix Necessary
- The Top Solution for Blocked Drains: Discover Jetting Your Way to a Clearer System
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Protect Your Home Investment by Conducting A CCTV Drain Inspection Prior Purchase
- How CCTV Drain Inspections Help Avoid Water Damage and Health Hazards
- Essential Tips for Keeping Your Drains Clog-Free
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- Benefits of Pipe Relining for Your Blocked Drains Problem
