DIY Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are a common problem for homeowners and can be caused by various things, like hair soap scum, soap grease, and even tree roots. While many people opt for fixing the issue on their own however, there are occasions that it is better to call professionals. In this article, we’ll explain when it is best to DIY drain cleaning and when it is best to consult professional plumber.
Key Takeaways
- Gulping sounds, slow draining, and foul odors indicate that your drain is in need of cleaning.
- Boiling water, baking soda and plunger and drain snake are all DIY ways to clear the drain.
- Always read the directions and use gloves in attempting DIY techniques.
- Consult a licensed Perth Blocked Drains Plumber plumber if there are numerous clogs and no improvement even after DIY efforts, or unclear blockages caused due to external factors such as tree roots.
- Professionals conduct CCTV drainage inspections to identify particular blockages and avoid unnecessary repair expenses.
The Signs that Your Drain Needs To Be Clean
Before you begin cleansing, be sure be aware of whether your drain needs to be cleaned at all. Here are some indications which indicate that your drain requires attention:
Slow Drainage
If you’re noticing that water takes longer than normal for it to drain or doesn’t drain completely, it’s time to look into. A slow draining shower or sink shower could mean there is a blockage forming in your pipes.
Gurgling Noises
Gurgling sounds coming from drains are often an indication of air trapped within the plumbing system. It could cause blockages and should be addressed as quickly as possible.
Foul Odors
The accumulation of organic matter may create unpleasant odors that emanate through your drainage. If you smell something funky emanating from your bathroom sink and shower area, then it’s that it’s time to wash.
How to DIY Drain Cleaning
There are many methods for getting rid of a blocked drain, which you can try at your own pace:
Boiling Water
Boiling water is able to dissolve the majority of organic materials, which can cause blockages in pipes, but it cannot be used in conjunction with PVC pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of vinegar and baking soda reacts and produces fizzing acid that causes any clogs that have been causing problems to be loosened up; pour boiling water over them for perfect results.
Plunger
Plungers can work wonders with small clogs, especially those that block 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 seems to be lodged a few inches in it, you could use drain snakes; insert it and gradually rotate while pushing it further until the obstruction disappears.
If you’re attempting any DIY cleaning method, be sure to follow the instructions thoroughly and wear protective clothing like gloves when needed.
When To Call a Professional
Although DIY methods can be effective in some cases however, there are times when you need the assistance of an experienced Perth Blocked Drains Plumber plumber:
Multiple Clogs
If you notice that multiple drains in your home back up with time, don’t try to resolve this yourself. This could be due to issues within the main sewer line which require the skills of a professional plumber.
No improvement after DIY tries
When you’ve attempted everything but you’re not getting results or you’re experiencing frequent blockages, it could be more serious plumbing problems that require professional assistance before significant damages occur.
Unseen Blockages
External entities such as tree roots can cause blockages which go unnoticed until the problem becomes severe. Professionals carry out CCTV drainage inspections that pinpoint the location of the clog and saving you unnecessary repair costs by tackling the issue directly without a 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 when I’m required to contact a professional plumber?
If you’ve tried numerous DIY ways but the drain is still blocked then it’s time to call in the pros. The signs to call a plumber include recurring obstructions, slow drainage, bubbling from the sink or toilet, when water is run by another source, as well as unpleasant odors emanating from the drains.
Are there any dangers to trying to clear my own drain?
In fact, trying to clear your own drain can actually result in more harm than it is. Harsh chemicals and improper tools can cause pipe damage, leading to expensive repairs later on. Additionally, if a blockage is not treated properly, it could cause sewage backups and potential health risks.
What are some DIY methods to clear my drain?
A few DIY methods to clear drains involve using a plunger or plumbing snake, pouring boiling waters down drains, or making a mix of vinegar, baking soda, and baking soda. While these options may be effective for minor clogs, it’s crucial to be cautious in attempting them.
Do I have to use chemical drain cleaners on my own?
While chemical drain cleaners can work initially, they can damage older pipes over time and cause them to weaken. Furthermore, many chemical cleaners contain harsh substances that can cause harm to people and pets.
Why should I pick Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for my blocked drainage needs within Perth ?
In Perth Blocked Drains Plumber , we specialize in clearing blocked drains fast and at a reasonable cost. Our professional team employs only the most modern technology in CCTV inspection cameras as well as hydro jetting equipment to pinpoint and solve your issues whilst leaving your property clean and clutter-free. Furthermore, as a local company serving Perth , we’re always available should you face any plumbing issues!
Conclusion
There are times when the DIY approach works effectively in cleaning the drains of clogs. But professionals have experience and equipment to evaluate the root causes of issues, thus preventing any future problems ensuring optimal cleanliness always. If the professionals you are looking for seem like the kind of service you need for an ideal sanitary environment, seeking out their services may be your best option. Contact one of our Perth Blocked Drains Plumber plumbers for timely efficient solutions that don’t require any effort or stress on your part.
Additional Information
- Why You Need CCTV Drain Inspection Services
- What You Need to Know About Blocked Drains and How to Resolve Them
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- Eliminate Drain Blockages Permanently with These Effective Techniques
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- DIY Plumber - An Easy Guide to Unclog Your Shower Drain
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Say Goodbye to Blocked Pipes: Effective Drainage Remedies