Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help
Blocked drains are a common problem that can cause disruption to our daily lives. While we tend to try to solve the problem on our own however, there are some blockages that require professional help. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of clearing blocked drains on your own versus hiring a professional.
Key Takeaways
- The blockages that are not too severe can be removed with simple strategies at home
- Before attempting any solutions make sure you have the appropriate tools at your disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda and vinegar/citric acid
- DIY methods to clear obstructions in drains are Boiling Wasser, Baking Soda
When should you attempt to clear a blocked drain?
Some minor blockages can be cleared using simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the following symptoms it is possible to try these techniques prior to calling professionals:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water is not going through the drains as quickly that it would, there might be a minor blockage. Make use of a plunger remove any debris that is clogging the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your tub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair causing the blockage. Try pouring boiling hot water with vinegar into your sink or bathtub to remove any buildup of residue.
Gurgling noises
When air is trapped inside your pipes as a result of obstruction, it creates the sound of bubbling as water flows through the drain. Using baking soda and hot water solutions, as well as vinegar to unblock any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are some common DIY methods for clearing blocked drains?
Before attempting any solutions be sure that you are equipped with the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are some efficient ways that can help clear obstructions:
Boiling Water
Injecting hot water directly into the sink will aid in melting away solids such as soap, or grease.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
The reaction triggered by mixing Baking Soda along with Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck in your pipes.
Snake or Auger Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers to prevent larger blockages if plungers and boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove the blockage by suctioning the debris out of the drain directly.
When is it time to bring in experts?
If you’ve tried every DIY techniques but your blockage is still there the issue is time to involve professionals. Here are a few situations where you need the help of a professional:
Recurring Blockages
The cause of the blockages could not have been fixed correctly. Employing a professional team ensures that they can uncover and correct any underlying problems.
Older Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage due to wear and other external elements. The experts can help you determine whether the pipeline is in need of replacement or more straightforward solutions such as the use of hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting process) is sufficient.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs contain hazardous materials like chemicals or broken glass that require special attention. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes, think about leaving this job to certified professionals.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains rather than fixing them. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs that are severe from forming. Making lifestyle changes like refraining from flushing hygiene products in the toilet, putting greasy substances into sinks, or having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent blockages completely.
Why choose Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for Professional Assistance?
Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing has years of experience in clearing blocked drains within Adelaide . We use the most modern technology and methods such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure quality results with no future issues.
- Hydrojetting makes use of high-pressure streams water at specific angles suitable for various types of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside look at the issues that are causing problems in pipes, which allows us to deal with specific issues effectively.
Our licensed professionals will be on-site quickly and efficiently, maintaining social distancing during 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
What can I do to determine when I’m in need of professional help to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY methods such as plunging the drain and using cleaning solutions, but you haven’t had success Then it’s time to seek professional help. Other signs include slow draining of sinks as well as odors of foul smells emanating from the drains, loud gurgling sounds or water back up.
Can you safely employ chemical drain cleaners in removing obstructions?
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and hazardous to you and the environment. It is recommended to try other DIY techniques before chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful. A professional plumber can ensure that you receive secure and efficient solutions that aren’t exposing yourself or your environment to harm.
Could blocked drains cause permanent damage to my home?
The truth is that blocked drains can cause serious damage over the long term 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 will prevent costly damages.
What are the methods used by plumbing professionals to unblock drains?
Professional plumbers use various methods like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate obstructions by cutting through or breaking up particles.
How much does it cost to employ a plumbing service similar to Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing an obstruction in the drain is contingent on factors like how serious the blockage is, which kind of technique is required to clear the blockage (e.g. the use of hydro jets or snakes) and how easy access to your drains are. It is recommended to call us at Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial review over the phone or schedule an appointment so that we know what alternatives are the most effective for your situation.
Don’t let your drain clogged issue untreated, call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning: Helpful Tips for Preventing Clogs in Your House
- The Dangers of Neglecting a Blocked Drain and What You Should Do
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Discover the optimal plumber for your backed up drain emergency
- Reducing the Risks of Drainage Problems: How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Help
- A Quick and Easy Fix for Blocked Sinks and Showers
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Clearing Your Pipe: Top-notch Drainage Remedies
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumber Solutions and Tips
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
