DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional
Clogged drains are the most common issue in homes and could be caused by a variety of things, like hair soap scum, soap grease or even tree roots. While many people opt for solving the problem at home but there are instances that it is better to seek help from a professional. In this article, we’ll explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when you should solicit help from professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Gulping sounds, slow draining and a foul smell indicate the time to clean your drain.
- Boiling baking soda, water, plunger as well as drain snakes are DIY methods for clearing the drain.
- Always read instructions and wear gloves if necessary when you are attempting DIY techniques.
- Seek help from a professional Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber if there are multiple clogs but no improvement following DIY efforts or unseen blockages caused by external factors like tree roots.
- The experts conduct CCTV drainage inspections in order to determine the specific blockage location preventing unnecessary repair cost.
The Signs that Your Drain Needs To Be Clean
Before you begin cleansing, be sure to identify if your drain needs to be cleaned at all. Below are a few indicators that tell you your drain is in need of attention:
Slow Draining
If you notice that water takes longer than usual to drain or isn’t draining at all, you need to check. A slow draining shower or sink shower could be a sign of a blockage forming in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Sounds of gurgling coming from drains typically indicate air being trapped inside the plumbing system. It could cause obstructions and should be addressed as quickly as it is possible.
Foul Odors
The accumulation of organic matter may create unpleasant odors that emanate through your drainage. If you’re experiencing a strange smell emanating from your sink or bath, it’s time for cleaning.
When To DIY Drain Cleaning
There are numerous methods for unclogging a blocked drain which you can try at your own pace:
Boiling Water
Boiling water is able to dissolve the majority of organic matter, causing blockages to pipes but is not employed in conjunction with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of baking soda and vinegar reacts and produces fizzing acid that causes any blockages that remain stubborn to fall away up. Pour boiling water into the clogs afterward to get optimal results.
Plunger
Plungers can be a boon for minor clogs especially for blocked toilets and sinks, but make sure that there isn’t any chemical residues present in the fixture before using plunger.
Drain Snake
If you believe that the blockage may be tucked within a few inches the drain, make use of drain snakes; insert it into the drain and slowly turn while pushing it forward until the obstruction dislodges.
If you are attempting any DIY cleaning technique, follow the instructions thoroughly and use protective equipment such as gloves when needed.
When should you call an Professional
Although DIY solutions can be effective in some cases However, there are some situations where you should consult a professional Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home have a tendency to overflow in time, don’t try to fix the issue yourself. It could be because of issues within your main sewer line and require the expertise of a professional plumber.
No improvement after DIY tries
When you’ve attempted everything but nothing appears to work or if there is regular blockages, there may be more significant plumbing issues that require expert help before major damages are caused.
Unseen Blockages
External entities such as tree roots can cause blockages which remain unnoticed until the issue is severe. Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections, which pinpoint the location of the clog and eliminating unnecessary repair costs by solving the issue immediately without guesswork.
| Signs Your Drain Needs Cleaning | When To DIY Drain Cleaning | When To Call a Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Draining | Boiling water | Multiple Clogs |
| Gurgling Noises | Baking Soda and Vinegar | No Improvement After DIY Attempts |
| Foul Odors | Plunger | Unseen Blockages |
| Drain Snake |
Note: Always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear where necessary while attempting any DIY cleaning methods.
Common Questions & Answers
How do I know whether I should call an experienced plumber?
If you’ve tried several DIY ways but your drain remains blocked then it’s time to call in the professionals. Signs to contact a plumber include recurring blockages, slow drainage bubbling in the sink or toilet, when water is run through a different source, and unpleasant odors emanating out of your drains.
Are there any potential risks attempting to unclog the drain on my own?
In fact, trying to clear your drain on your own can do more harm than it is. The use of harsh chemicals and a poor tool can damage pipes, leading to costly repairs in the future. If a blockage is not dealt with properly, it could lead to sewer backups, which could pose health risks.
Which are the best DIY methods to clear my drain?
Some DIY methods for clearing drains are to use plumbing snakes or a plunger pouring boiling hot drinking water into the drainage or making a mix of baking soda and vinegar. Although these techniques may work in cases of minor clogs you should be cautious when you try them.
Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners could be effective initially, they could damage older pipes over time and cause them to weaken. Additionally, many chemical cleaners contain harsh substances that can be harmful to both people and pets.
Why should I pick Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for my blocked drains needs located in Adelaide ?
The team at Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing , we specialize in clearing blocked drains efficiently and at a reasonable cost. Our team of trained professionals makes use of the latest technologies in the field of CCTV cameras as well as hydro jetting equipment to identify and resolve your problems while leaving your property spotless and free of clutter. Furthermore, as an local company that serves Adelaide , we’re always close by should you experience any plumbing emergencies!
Conclusion
There are times when the DIY method is effective in cleaning drain clogs; however, professionals have experience and equipment to evaluate the root cause of problems, and prevent future issues ensuring optimal cleanliness at all times. If these pros seem like the ideal solution for your home to have an optimally clean environment getting their help could be your best bet. Call one of our Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing plumbers for timely efficient solutions that don’t require any effort or worry on your part.
Additional Information
- 10 Simple Ways for Fixing a Clogged Pipe
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- Discover the optimal plumber for your backed up drain emergency
- Household Remedies for Unblock Blocked Drains
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Discover the best blocked drain solution you should try today
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning: Helpful Tips for Preventing Clogs in Your House
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers