Clearing Blocked Drains: DIY vs Professional Help

Blocked drains are a typical issue that can disrupt our daily life. While most of us try to fix the issue by ourselves however, there are some blockages that require professional help. In this post we’ll look at the pros and cons of clearing blockages on your own or seeking professional assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Some minor blockages can be cleared with simple strategies at home
- Before trying any of the solutions make sure you have the correct tools at disposal: gloves, plunger baking soda, vinegar/citric acids, and baking soda
- DIY methods for clearing drainage obstructions include Boiling Water, Baking Soda
How do you remove a blockage from a drain?
Some minor blockages can be cleared with simple techniques at home. If you observe any of the signs below You can try these methods prior to calling experts:
Sinks that drain slowly or bathtubs
If water isn’t going through the drains as quickly like it ought to, then there might be a minor blockage. You can try using a plunger get rid of any debris clogging up the pipe.
The smells are unpleasant
A bad smell emanating from your tub or sink can suggest trapped food or hair causing the obstruction. Try pouring boiling water mixed with vinegar into the bathtub or sink to eliminate any residue.
Sounds of Gurgling
When air is trapped inside your pipes due to obstruction, it creates the sound of bubbling as water flows through the drain. Utilizing baking soda and hot water, in conjunction with vinegar will help to remove any accumulation of food particles and hair.
What are some of the most popular DIY ways to clear blocked drains?
Before beginning any project ensure you are equipped with the appropriate tools at disposal: gloves, plunger, baking soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Here are a few effective methods 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 mixing Baking Soda and Vinegar loosens up all sorts of gunk stuck to your pipes.
The Drain Snake or Auger
Utilize Snakes or Augers for more severe blockages when plungers and boiling water fail.
Dry Vacuum Wet
Make use of dry and wet vacuums for removing the blockage by suctioning this material from the drain directly.
Is it time to engage professionals?
If you’ve tried all DIY methods, and the problem persists, then it’s time to involve the help of a professional. Here are a few instances that need expert advice:
Recurring Blockages
The root of the blockages might not have been properly addressed. Engaging a team of experts will ensure that they are able to identify and fix any underlying issues.
The age of the Plumbing System
older plumbing systems are prone to damage caused by wear and environmental factors. Professionals can assess whether your plumbing system requires replacement or if simpler solutions such as hydro jetting (a high-pressure jetting service) will suffice.
Unsafe/ Hazardous Materials
Some clogs may contain dangerous materials like broken glass, chemicals or even broken glass that require specific care. If you don’t want put yourself at risk of damage or injury to your pipes leaving this job to certified experts.
Prevention is always better than Cure
It is always more beneficial to maintain drains than fixing them. Routine maintenance will prevent clogs of a severe nature from developing. Making lifestyle changes like not flushing toiletries down the drain, putting grease substances into sinks, having regular CCTV inspections can help prevent obstructions completely.
Why Should You 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 techniques and equipment, such as hydrojetting and CCTV camera inspections to ensure top-quality results without issues.
- Hydrojetting is the process of delivering high-pressure streams water with specific angles that are suitable for a variety of plumbing fixtures.
- CCTV cameras provide an inside view of the issues that are causing problems in pipes, allowing us to deal with specific issues correctly.
Our licensed professionals will efficiently work on site while ensuring social distancing throughout these Covid moments while cleaning up after the work 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 |
FAQs
How do I determine that I require help from a professional to unblock a blocked drain?
If you’ve tried the simplest DIY solutions like plunging and using drain cleaning products but have not had any success Then it’s the time to call a professional for assistance. Other indicators include slow draining of sinks or pipes, odors of foul-smelling coming from drains, sounds of gurgling, along with water backup.
Can you safely make use of chemical drain cleaners for clearing blockages?
Chemical drain cleaners are harmful and dangerous to you and the environment. It is best to test other DIY methods before making use of potentially harmful chemicals. Engaging a professional plumber guarantees that you are getting secure and efficient solutions that aren’t the risk of exposing yourself or your surroundings to risk.
Are blocked drains causing any long-term damage to my property?
Unblocking drains could result in serious long-term damage such as water damage burst pipes, mold growth, sewage backup or even foundation damage. Seeking professional help in good time will prevent costly damages.
What are some of the methods used by plumbing professionals to clear drains that are blocked?
Professional plumbers utilize a variety of techniques like hydro jetting that utilizes high-pressure water streams, as well as drain snake machines, which eliminate blockages by cutting into or breaking down the obstructions.
How much will it cost to engage a plumbing firm like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for clearing blocked drains?
The cost of clearing a blocked drain depends on the severity of the blockage is and what kind of process is needed for clearing the obstruction (e.g., Snaking or hydro-jetting) and how accessible you are to the drain system. We recommend contacting the team of Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for an initial assessment over the phone or schedule an appointment so that we can determine what solutions are most appropriate for your situation.
Don’t be apathetic and leave your drain situation in the dark, contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing today for quality service.
Additional Information
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Discover the best blocked drain solution you should try today
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumber Solutions and Tips
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- A Quick and Easy Fix for Blocked Sinks and Showers
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Keeping Costly Drain Repairs at Bay with Routine Inspections
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
- Clear Your Drains: Speedy Hacks to Try Out Immediately
- Say Goodbye to Frequent Clogging: Reasons to Invest in Pipe Relining Services