Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues that people face on a daily basis in Australia and around the world. Because blockages can occur at any time, it is important to be prepared to deal with one. Untreated blockages can cause water to leak from your drains, potentially causing damage to your home or business.
Severe blockages can also cause burst pipes, which can necessitate even more expensive repairs. Here are the primary options for clearing blocked drains that you have available to you.
Common Tips For Unclogging A Drain:
A clogged drain is one main reason for calling a plumber. Blocked sinks are the root cause of all kinds of problems, from foul odors to water that simply won’t drain leading to you calling for a drain cleaning service.
BOILING WATER
Pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain is a quick and easy fix for clogged drains. In many cases, this is sufficient to loosen or dissolve the blockage without the need for more drastic measures.
Only use this method on metal or ceramic pipes, as heat can cause PVC pipe joints to loosen. Instead, use hot, not boiling, tap water for PVC pipes. This method may be effective for removing grease or food buildup, but it is unlikely to be effective for removing solid blockages.
NATURAL CLEANER MADE AT HOME
You can make your own drain cleaner by combining bicarb soda (baking soda) and white vinegar. Pour the bicarb into the drain first, then the vinegar. Cover the drain to keep the mixture from escaping.
CLEANER WITH CAUSTIC
Caustic chemical drain cleaners are available at your local hardware store or supermarket. These chemicals can dissolve grease, hair, food, and other common clogs. They are, however, harmful to the environment and should be used with caution.
Caustic cleaners are ineffective on solid masses such as tree roots or small household items. When working with chemical cleaners, always protect your hands and face, and flush your pipes with water afterward to remove any lingering chemicals.
PLUNGER
A plunger can be used to unclog a clogged drain. Before you begin plunging, cover any overflow spouts to ensure a strong seal.
A SNAKE AND A CCTV
For more severe blockages, use a plumber’s snake or electric eel tool. The rotating coil at the cable’s end spins quickly, chipping away at the blockage until it is cleared. Because snakes have a limited range, the blockage must be near the drain’s opening for them to be effective.
They may also cause damage to your pipes, so it is best to try other methods first. Plumbers’ snakes are available at most hardware stores, or you can hire a licensed plumber to do the job for you.
EXCAVATION
In the most extreme cases, your pipes may need to be completely excavated. A plumber can pinpoint the exact location of the blockage, allowing them to determine which pipe needs to be excavated. After excavating the earth around the pipe, the plumber can repair or replace it.
The earth can then be refilled around the new pipe, rebuilding your house to its original state. This type of work can be quite complex, so it is best to leave it to a professional plumber.
RELINING OF PIPES
When your pipes are damaged, pipe relining is a cost-effective and time-saving alternative to full pipe replacement. After we’ve removed the offending blockage, we reline the pipe with flexible tools and resin.
Drains become clogged for a variety of reasons. While some are obvious, others you may not have considered. When you notice tell-tale signs like gurgling noises, slow draining, or foul odors, try some of the home remedies we’ve recommended. If they don’t work, you’ll need to call a plumber.
