Blocked drains are a headache to deal with, and always occur at the worst times. So what are the best ways to fix a blocked drain? Can you unblock it yourself? When should you call in the experts? (that’s Eleebana Plumbing, by the way!)
Read on – we’ll answer all those questions and more.
What Causes a Blocked Drain?
Drain blockages come in various forms, each with its own set of challenges:
- Hair and Soap Scum: The usual suspects in bathroom drains. Over time, hair and soap build-up, creating a sticky blockage that slows down water flow.
- Food Waste and Grease: In kitchen sinks, the causes are often food scraps and grease. Grease is particularly sneaky – it goes down as a liquid then solidifies inside the pipes, trapping food particles and creating a clog.
- Foreign Objects: Things that have no business being in the drains (such as children’s toys, small household items) can accidentally end up there, leading to unexpected and sometimes severe blockages.
- Mineral Build-Up: In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate over time, narrowing the pipes and reducing water flow.
- Tree Roots: This is a serious issue usually found in outdoor plumbing. Tree roots can grow into pipes, causing significant damage and blockages.
Understanding the type of blockage you have is key to choosing the right approach to tackle it. While some blockages are simple enough to fix on your own, others might require the specialised equipment and expertise of a professional plumbing service, such as Eleebana Plumbing.
DIY Drain Unclogging Techniques
If you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves, there are a few tried-and-true techniques that can help clear a blocked drain without having to call a plumber. Let’s start with some simple home remedies:
Simple Home Remedies
- Boiling Water: Boiling water can work wonders on grease and soap scum blockages. Just pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain slowly, in two or three stages, allowing the hot water to work its magic for several seconds between each pour.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: This dynamic duo is often touted as a miracle cure for clogs. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain to keep the reaction below the surface and wait for about an hour before flushing with hot water.
- A word of warning: While baking soda and vinegar can be effective for minor clogs, they’re not always the best solution. The reaction they create is not always powerful enough to break through tough blockages. Overuse can potentially cause damage to PVC pipes and fittings due to the pressure buildup.
Mechanical Methods
- Using a Plunger: A plunger can be very effective when it comes to dislodging blockages. For sinks, use a cup plunger. Fill the sink partially with water, then place the plunger over the drain and pump vigorously. The pressure created can often dislodge the clog.
- Creating a Homemade Drain Snake: By unravelling a wire coat hanger you can create a makeshift drain snake. Straighten it out, leaving a small hook at one end. Insert it into the drain and gently probe for clogs. Be careful not to scratch the pipes.
Natural Solutions
Natural solutions are often best for maintenance rather than heavy-duty unclogging. Regular use can prevent buildup and keep your drains smelling fresh.
- Salt and Boiling Water: Salt, especially when used with boiling water, can be an effective cleaner for slow-moving drains. Pour half a cup of table salt down the drain, followed by boiling water. Let it sit for a few minutes and then flush with hot water.
- Lemon Juice and Baking Soda: A fragrant alternative to vinegar. The acid in lemon juice helps to break down clogs, much like vinegar. Use it with baking soda and follow the same steps as the baking soda-vinegar method.
These DIY techniques are suitable for tackling minor drain blockages. If these methods don’t fix the blockage, it’s probably time to phone Eleebana Plumbing for some advice.
When DIY Isn’t Enough
While there’s satisfaction in fixing things ourselves, it’s important to accept that sometimes, a problem is beyond the reach of home remedies. Recognising when to call us will save you time, money, and headache. Here are some signals that it’s time to call the experts:
Signs That You Need Professional Plumbing Help
- Recurring Clogs: If the same drain keeps clogging, especially after repeated DIY attempts, it’s a sign of a deeper issue that likely requires professional tools and expertise.
- Multiple Clogged Drains: When more than one drain is clogged at the same time, it could indicate a blockage in the main sewer line. This is a problem that requires professional intervention.
- Bad Odours: Persistent, unpleasant smells emanating from the drain might be a sign of a significant buildup or a deeper issue in the sewer line.
- Water Backing Up: If water starts backing up in other places when you use the sink or shower, it’s a clear sign of a serious blockage that needs professional attention.
- Slow Draining After Fixes: If the drain is still slow after you’ve tried multiple DIY methods, there might be a problem that only specialised equipment can resolve.
Risks of Prolonged Clogs and Improper DIY Methods
Prolonged clogs cause pipes to wear out and leak, leading to costly repairs.
Improper DIY methods, such as using the wrong tools or applying excessive force, can damage pipes and fixtures, turning a simple clog into a plumbing disaster.
Why Substances like Drano Can Be Harmful to Pipes
Commercial chemical cleaners like Drano are often viewed as quick fixes, but they come with risks. These chemicals can:
- Erode Pipes: Over time, harsh chemicals can corrode pipes, especially older or weaker ones, leading to leaks and breaks.
- Harm Septic Systems: They can disrupt the balance of bacteria in septic systems, essential for breaking down waste.
- Pose Health Risks: They can be harmful to your health if inhaled and are dangerous if they come into contact with your skin or eyes.
- Environmental Impact: These chemicals are not eco-friendly and damage the environment.
Professional Solutions: How Eleebana Plumbing Can Help
When DIY methods fall short, it’s time to call Eleebana Plumbing. Our team of skilled professionals can handle even the most stubborn of clogs.
Expert Techniques Used by Professionals
- Drain Snakes: Unlike your makeshift coat hanger, professional drain snakes are powerful tools that can reach deep into pipes to remove tough blockages.
- Hydro Jetting: This method uses high-pressure water jets to effectively clear out grease, sludge, and debris, leaving your pipes as clean as new.
- CCTV Camera Inspections: We use state-of-the-art cameras to inspect your pipes internally, identifying the exact location and nature of the blockage without any guesswork.
- Eco-Friendly Solutions: Our methods are not only effective but also environmentally friendly, ensuring your pipes are cleared without harming the environment.
The Advantages of Hiring Eleebana Plumbing
- Expert and Experienced Plumbers: Our team has years of experience and training, ensuring that your plumbing issues are diagnosed and resolved quickly and efficiently.
- Time and Cost-Effective: DIY methods can be time-consuming and may not always solve the problem. Professional intervention saves both time and money in the long run.
- Safety First: Handling plumbing issues yourself can be risky. Our professionals are equipped with the right tools and safety gear to handle complex issues safely.
- Guaranteed Work: We stand by our work with guarantees, giving you peace of mind that the job is done right.
Preventing Future Blockages
Keeping your drains free-flowing requires a bit of upkeep and smart habits. Regular maintenance and awareness will prevent the majority of common blockages, saving you from the hassle of dealing with a clogged drain. Here are some tips and practices to keep your plumbing in top shape:
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Hot Water Flushing: Make it a weekly ritual to pour boiling water down your drains. This can help melt away any grease or soap buildup before they turn into blockages.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar Treatment: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar combination followed by hot water. It’s a natural way to keep your drains clear and odour-free.
- Strainers and Drain Guards: Use them in your sinks and showers to catch hair, food particles, and other debris. Clean these strainers regularly.
- Regular Pipe Cleaning: Consider using a homemade or eco-friendly cleaner for regular pipe cleaning. It keeps the pipes in good condition without the harsh effects of chemical cleaners.
Habits to Avoid to Prevent Blocked Drains
- No Coffee Grounds Down the Sink: They can accumulate in pipes and cause blockages.
- Avoid Flushing Non-Degradable Items: Things like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs should never be flushed down the toilet.
- Minimize Use of Bath Oils: While they are great for relaxation, they can contribute to buildup in your pipes. Use them sparingly.
- Be Cautious with Food Waste: Even with a garbage disposal unit, be mindful of what goes down your kitchen sink. Avoid disposing of hard-to-grind items like bones or fibrous vegetables.
- Avoid Grease in Sinks: Never pour grease or oil down your kitchen sink. Instead, dispose of it in the trash after it cools.
The Importance of Routine Professional Check-Ups
Even with the best DIY maintenance practices, having your plumbing system checked by Eleebana Plumbing regularly is a good idea. Here’s why:
- Early Detection of Issues: Professionals can detect potential problems before they become serious, saving you from future headaches.
- Long-Term Savings: Regular check-ups extend the life of your plumbing system, saving you money on major repairs in the long run.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your plumbing system is in great hands guarantees peace of mind.
Give us a Call
If you’re facing a plumbing challenge, whether it’s a simple question or a complex issue, Eleebana Plumbing is here to help. We are committed to providing first-rate plumbing services and exceptional customer service in the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle area. Give us a call, we’ll give you some free advice and discuss how best to solve your plumbing problems.
To get in touch you can call us, email us, or use our web form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common causes of blocked drains and how can I identify them?
Blocked drains can be caused by various factors such as hair and soap scum in bathroom drains, food waste and grease in kitchen sinks, foreign objects like children’s toys, mineral build-up in areas with hard water, and tree roots in outdoor plumbing. Identifying the type of blockage is crucial for determining the appropriate method to fix it.
Are there effective DIY methods for unclogging a drain?
Yes, there are several DIY methods for unclogging drains. These include pouring boiling water for grease and soap scum blockages, using a baking soda and vinegar mixture, employing a plunger, creating a homemade drain snake from a wire coat hanger, and natural solutions like salt, lemon juice, or Epsom salt with boiling water. However, these methods are best for minor blockages and regular maintenance.
When should I call a professional plumber for a blocked drain?
You should call a professional plumber like Eleebana Plumbing when home remedies are not effective, especially in cases of recurring clogs, multiple clogged drains, persistent bad odours, water backing up in unusual places, or slow draining after multiple DIY attempts. Professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to handle complex blockages.