Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can disrupt our daily life. While we tend to try to resolve the issue on our own however, there are some blockages that need professional help. In this article we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blockages on your own or having professional help.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be eliminated using simple techniques at home
- Before attempting any solutions, make sure you have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger or plunger, baking soda (baking soda), vinegar/citric Acid
- DIY methods for clearing obstructions in drains are Boiling the water Baking Soda
What are the ideal times to clean a blocked drain?
The majority of minor blockages can easily be eliminated using simple methods at home. If you notice any of these signs then you can try these methods prior to calling experts:
Slow draining bathtubs or sinks
If the water isn’t flowing down the drain as swiftly that it would, there could be a small blockage. Try using a plunger to eliminate any debris blocking the pipe.
Odors that are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your sink or bathtub could indicate food debris or hair, causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar in your bathtub or sink in order to dissolve any residue buildup.
Gurgling noises
When air gets trapped in your pipes as a result of a clog, it causes popping sounds as water flows through in the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any buildup around food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY methods to clear blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions be sure to are equipped with the appropriate tools at fingertips: gloves, plunger, baking soda vinegar/citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Pouring hot water directly into your sink can help melt away solids like soap and grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction caused by the mixture of Baking Soda along with Vinegar releases all kinds of gunk that has accumulated in your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Use Snakes or Augers to remove more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use dry and wet vacuums to eliminate the blockage by suctioning the blockage material out of the drain in a direct manner.
When is the right time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY techniques but the problem persists the issue is time to call in an expert. Here are a few scenarios that need expert advice:
Blockages that recur
The root cause of the blockages could not have been addressed correctly. Employing a professional team guarantees that they will be able to find and fix any underlying issues.
The age of the Plumbing System
Older plumbing systems are vulnerable to damage due to wear and environmental factors. A professional can tell if your pipe requires replacement or if simpler solutions like Hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass or chemicals that require specific care. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, consider confiding this task to qualified professionals.
Prevention is more effective than Cure
It is better to keep drains clean rather than fix them. A regular maintenance assists in preventing severe clogs from developing. Making changes in your lifestyle such as eliminating the flushing of hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances leaking into sinks and regular CCTV examinations can stop blocking completely.
Why Choose Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains in Adelaide . We utilize the latest technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections that guarantee high-quality results and will not cause issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras offer us an inside look at the root of the problem within pipes, allowing us to address specific issues properly.
Our fully licensed experts can be on site efficiently, while maintaining social distancing during these Covid times while cleaning up once the job 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 Question
What can I do to determine that I require help from a professional to clear a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY solutions like plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success is it time to seek professional help. Other signs include sinks that don’t drain as quickly or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from the drains, loud gurgling sounds and water backup.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners to clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you as well as the environment. It is advised to explore other DIY strategies before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you receive reliable and safe solutions without exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Do blocked drains cause lasting damage to my property?
The truth is that blocked drains could result in serious long-term damage including water damage, cracking pipes, growth of mold in the sewage system, and even foundation damage. A professional’s assistance in a timely time can prevent costly damage.
What are some of the methods that plumbers employ to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers employ a variety of methods such as hydro jetting, which makes use of high-pressure water streams as well as drain snake machines which clear blockages by cutting through or breaking up debris.
How much is it to contract a plumbing company like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors such as how severe the blockage is and what kind of technique is required for clearing the obstruction (e.g. Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how accessible you are to the drain system. It is recommended to call us at Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial review over the phone or book an appointment so we can figure out what methods are best suited to your situation.
Don’t leave your clogged drain problem unsolved, call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Discover the optimal plumber for your backed up drain emergency
- 10 Simple Ways for Fixing a Clogged Pipe
- CCTV Drain Inspections: Why They are Crucial in Detecting Drain Blockages
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Drain Maintenance 101: 10 Simple Ways to Prevent Blockages in Your Home
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Clearing Your Pipe: Top-notch Drainage Remedies
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
