DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional
Clogged drains are a common household problem that could be caused by a variety of things, like hair, soap scum, grease, and the roots of trees. Although many prefer solving the problem at home, there are times that you should contact an expert. In this article, we will discuss when you should DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to seek help from a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- A slow drain, gurgling sounds and a foul smell indicate that your drain is in need of cleaning.
- Boiling baking soda, water, plunger and drain snake are all DIY methods for clearing an obstruction in drains.
- Always read through the instructions and wear gloves while attempting DIY methods.
- Seek help from a professional Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber plumber if there are numerous clogs and no improvement after DIY attempts, or unseen blockages caused by external factors such as tree roots.
- Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections to find specific blockage location preventing unnecessary repair expenses.
How to tell if your drain needs cleaning
Before you begin this cleaning procedure, be sure be aware of whether your drain should be cleaned out in the first instance. Below are a few indicators that indicate your drain needs attention:
Slow Draining
If you notice that your water will take longer usual to drain or isn’t draining completely, it’s time to examine. A slow draining sink or shower could indicate that there’s a blockage in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Sounds of gurgling coming from drains are usually a sign of air trapped within the plumbing system. This can lead to obstructions and should be investigated as soon as is possible.
Foul Odors
The buildup of organic matter may produce unpleasant odors through your drainage. If you’re smelling something strange emanating from your bathroom sink or bathtub, it’s likely the time to get your bathroom cleaned.
When to do your own drain cleaning
There are many methods for clearing a blockage in a drain you can try by yourself:
Boiling Water
Boiling water dissolves most organic material causing blockages to pipes but is not used in conjunction with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts producing fizzing acid causing any blockages that remain stubborn to fall away up; pour boiling water in the following step for optimal results.
Plunger
Plungers can be a boon for minor clogs especially for blocked toilets and sinks, but make sure that there’s no chemical residues present within the fixture prior use of a plunger.
Drain Snake
If the blockage appears be tucked within a few inches the drain, use drain snakes. Simply insert it and gradually turn pushing it forward until the obstruction disappears.
When attempting any DIY cleaning techniques, make sure to take the time to study the instructions carefully, and wear protective gear like gloves when needed.
When To Call for a Professional
Although DIY methods can be beneficial in certain circumstances however, there are times when you should consult an experienced Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains within your home are backed up over time, don’t attempt to address this issue on your own. It could be because of issues within the main sewer line, which require the expertise of a skilled plumber.
There is no improvement after DIY attempts.
You’ve tried every option, but nothing appears to work or you’re experiencing frequent blockages, it could be more serious plumbing issues that require expert help prior to causing major damage.
Unseen Blockages
Sometimes, external factors such as tree roots may cause blockages that go unnoticed until the problem gets serious. Professionals carry out CCTV drainage inspections pinpointing the precise location of the clog, cutting down on repair costs by tackling the issue directly 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
What can I do to tell if I need to call an experienced plumber?
If you’ve tried several DIY methods and the drain is still blocked then it’s time to call in the pros. Some signs that you need to contact a plumber include recurring obstructions, slow drainage, bubbling in the toilet or sink when water is run from a different source, or unpleasant smells coming from the drains.
Are there any risks to trying to unblock the drain on my own?
If you try to clear your drain could cause more harm than good. Harsh chemicals and improper tools can harm pipes and lead to costly repairs in the future. Additionally, if a blockage is not properly handled, it could cause the occurrence of sewage backups as well as health risks.
Which are the best DIY ways to unblock my drain?
Some DIY methods for clearing drains include using plumbing snakes or a plunger or pouring boiling liquid down the drain, or making a mix of baking soda with vinegar. While these options may be effective in cases of minor clogs it is important to exercise caution when attempting them.
Can I utilize chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners could initially work, they may damage older pipes over time and weaken them. Additionally, many chemical cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can cause harm to humans and pets.
Why should I pick Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for my blocked drains needs in Adelaide ?
In Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber , we specialize in clearing blocked drains fast and at a reasonable cost. Our staff of highly trained experts employs only the most modern technology in CCTV inspection cameras and hydro jetting machines to detect and resolve your problems while leaving your property spotless and clutter-free. Additionally, since we’re an local company that serves Adelaide , we’re always nearby if you encounter any plumbing emergency!
Conclusion
There are instances where the DIY method can be effective in cleaning the drains of clogs. But, professionals have experience and the tools to identify underlying problems preventing future troubles and ensuring optimum cleanliness at all times. If the professionals you are looking for seem like the kind of service you need for the perfect sanitary environment and you are looking for their services, then contacting them may be your best option. Reach out to one of our Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber plumbers for timely efficient solutions with no fuss or worry on your part.
Additional Information
- Why You Should Choose CCTV Drain Inspection to Identify Root Infiltration in Your Plumbing System
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- Remove Drain Blockages Permanently with These Proven Techniques
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- How to Clear Blocked Drains in Your Home
- Everything You Need to Know About Unblocking Drains and Avoiding Plumbing Problems
- Protect Your Home Investment by Conducting A CCTV Drain Inspection Prior Purchase