DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are an issue that is common to all households and is caused by many things, such as hair, soap scum, grease and even tree roots. Although many individuals opt for solving the problem at home however, there are occasions when it’s best to contact an expert. In this post, we’ll discuss when you should DIY drain cleaning and when to get help from a professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Slow draining, gurgling noises and foul odors are indicators the time to clean your drain.
- Boiling baking soda, water, vinegar, plunger, or drain snakes, can be DIY ways to clear an obstruction in drains.
- Always read the directions and use gloves when you are attempting DIY techniques.
- Get help from a professional Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber plumber if there are several clogs that do not show improvement even after DIY efforts, or unseen blockages caused by external factors like tree roots.
- Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections to pinpoint particular blockages and avoid unnecessary repair expenses.
The Signs that Your Drain Needs To Be Clean
Before you begin cleansing, it is important to determine if your drain needs to be cleaned up in the first place. Here are some indications that tell you your drain is in need of attention:
Slow Drainage
If you find that your water takes longer than normal in time to drain or isn’t draining at all, it’s time to look into. The slow draining of your sink or shower could be a sign of an obstruction forming within your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Sounds of gurgling coming from drains are usually a sign of air that has gotten trapped in the plumbing system. It could cause blockages and should be looked at as soon as possible.
Foul Odors
The buildup of organic matter can result in unpleasant smells emanating from your drains. If you’re smelling something strange emanating from your bathroom sink or bath, it’s that it’s time to wash.
How to DIY Drain Cleaning
There are a variety of methods for clearing a blockage in a drain you can attempt on your own.
Boiling Water
Boiling water will dissolve a lot of organic materials, which can cause pipe blockage but cannot be employed with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
A combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts producing fizzing acid causing the clogs that are stubborn to break up. Pour boiling water into the clogs afterward to get the best results.
Plunger
Plungers work wonders for minor blockages, specifically for blocked toilets and sinks, but make sure that there’s no chemical residues in the fixture before using plunger.
Drain Snake
If you believe that the blockage may be tucked a few inches in the bowels, you may make use of drain snakes; insert it into the drain and slowly turn while pushing it further until the obstruction disappears.
When you attempt any DIY cleaning techniques, make sure to read the instructions carefully and wear protective clothing like gloves whenever necessary.
When To Call to a Professional
Although DIY methods can be successful in certain instances however, there are times when you need the assistance of a licensed Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains in your home back up over time, don’t attempt to address this issue on your own. It could be because of problems within the main sewer line, which require the expertise of a professional plumber.
No improvement after DIY tries
When you’ve attempted everything but there is no solution or if there is persistent blockages, there could be more serious plumbing issues that require expert help prior to significant damage occurring.
Unseen Blockages
Sometimes, external factors such as tree roots can cause blockages which go unnoticed until the problem becomes severe. Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections that pinpoint the exact location of the blockage, to avoid costly repairs by tackling the issue directly without any 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 and Answers
How do I know whether I should call the services of a licensed plumber?
If you’ve tried various DIY methods but the drain is still blocked and clogged, you need to call in the professionals. The signs to call the plumber include frequent blockages, slow drainage, bubbling from the sink or toilet, when the water is pumped through a different source, and unpleasant odors emanating out of your drains.
Are there any potential risks trying to clean my own drain?
It’s true that trying to unblock your drain on your own can cause more harm than the good. Chemicals that are harsh and ineffective tools can harm pipes and lead to costly repairs later on. Additionally, if a blockage is not properly handled, it could lead to water backups and health risks.
Are there any DIY methods for unclogging my drain?
Some DIY methods to clear drains are to use the plunger or plumbing snake, pouring boiling drinking water into the drainage or creating a mixture of baking soda, vinegar and. While these methods may work to clear minor blockages, it’s crucial to be cautious in attempting these methods.
Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners could perform initially, they may affect older pipes and weaken them. Additionally, many chemical cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can cause harm to people as well as pets.
Why should I select Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for my blocked drains needs in Adelaide ?
At Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber , we specialize in unblocking blocked drains quickly and easily. Our staff of highly trained experts makes use of the latest techniques in surveillance cameras as well as hydro jetting machines to detect and solve your issues while leaving your property clean and mess-free. Plus, as a local company servicing Adelaide , we’re always near if you have any plumbing issues!
Conclusion
There are times when the DIY method can be effective in cleaning drainage clogs. However professionals have experience and tools to determine the root cause of problems, and prevent future issues ensuring optimal cleanliness throughout the day. If these experts seem like the ideal solution for your home to have the perfect sanitary environment and you are looking for their services, then contacting them could be your best bet. Contact our Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber plumbers for timely effective solutions without any hassle or stress on your part.
Additional Information
- Essential Tips for Keeping Your Drains Clog-Free
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Tricks for Identifying & Verifying a Clogged Drain
- How to Fix a Shower Drain: The Step-by-Step Fix Necessary
- Drain Maintenance 101: 10 Simple Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- Catching Drain Issues Early: The Benefits of Scheduling Regular Inspections for Your Business
- Clearing Your Drain: Top-notch Drainage Fixes
- How CCTV Drain Inspections Help Avoid Water Damage and Health Hazards
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners