How to Clear a Block Drain?
If a list of most annoying plumbing issues is made, a blocked drain would definitely top the list. The smell and the sight, we wish to keep them far away from our residential and commercial spaces. But if you failed to avoid them and are not looking for a quick solution, hear from our experts a few proven DIY drain unblocking techniques.
Even though complex blockages require expert assistance, you can efficiently deal with the minor with the right equipment. This is your guide to coping with the minor ones from our blocked drain experts in Melbourne, so read on to know more. But before we start, let’s look at the few signs of a blocked drain because before remedy comes the identification of the problem.
Most Common Signs of a Blocked Drain
Like all plumbing issues, a blocked drain also has some visible signs. Keep an eye open for them, and you will be sure to deal with them on time.
Some common signs include:
- Slow drainage in one or multiple outlets like sinks, showers, closets, etc.
- Abnormally high or low water levels in your toilet.
- A lingering unpleasant smell around your drains.
- Constant gurgling noises from your gutters.
- Water backups in your sinks and shower.
- A leak in your sewer cleanout system.
- Dirty water pools in your lawn or backyard.
DIY Drain Unblocking Techniques
Boiling Water
For minor blockages, pouring a cup of boiled water down your drains can work like magic. No, it is not just a misconception but a fact. Blockages are often a result of the accumulation of dirt, oil and grease over time. So, hot water can melt the solidified waste and help clear the blockage. But note that it only works in case of minor blockages. If you have sanitary napkins, a toy or other foreign objects stuck down your drain, boiling water cannot melt them. You can try it and call blocked drain experts if the problem persists.
Store-Bought Caustic Cleaners
Another DIY drain unblocking option is store-bought caustic cleaners. The chemical action is proven to dissolve even the most rigid fat, grease or oil pile-up in your drains. You need to follow the unlocking procedure mentioned on the cleaner label, and you are good to go. Also, make sure to read any cautionary measures written on the product to prevent any accidents. While these caustic cleaners are effective, we recommend you refrain from using harsh chemicals because they will not clear the blockages but also corrode your drains and pipelines in the process.
Homemade Remedy: Baking Soda & Vinegar
While some homemade remedies are faux, this one works. Natural or homemade cleaners like a mixture of baking soda and vinegar create a frizzing effect which works on minor waste build-ups and clears them in no time.
Procedure:
- Pour around 1 litre of boiling water down your blocked drain.
- Spread half a cup of baking soda into your drain and let it rest for five minutes.
- Pour one cup of vinegar and water and leave it for ten minutes.
- To end the procedure, pour another one litre of water so that all the melted waste is sent down the drain and you get rid of the blockage.
Being a homemade remedy, this also works only on minor blockages. For a complex blocked drain in Melbourne, give our experts a call.
Plunger
A plunger is the most common DIY tool used to clear blocked toilets in Melbourne. And they work in most cases unless it’s a very complex blockage. But having said that, using a plunger is not anyone’s favourite DIY work. Unlike other DIY unblocking methods, which simply send the waste down the drain, a plunger will bring the debris to the surface. So, it involves a cleaning procedure we all would like to avoid, but still, as it is effective, it’s quite a popular unblocking technique.
As blocked toilet plumbers in Melbourne, we recommend you wear protective gear while using a plunger to save your clothes from spillage. Also, never use a plunger after pouring an unlocking chemical, as it can spill and cause severe burns.
DIY Drain Snake
Drain snakes are any drain plumber’s best companion. While you won’t have professional equipment like Drain Snake, you can very quickly DIY a simple one and deal with minor blockages. You can take any flexible metal wire and attach a hook to its end for a Drain Snake. You can then insert it into the drain hole of your sink or bath drain and remove any hair that might be stuck and causing the blockage.
Hydro Jet
A hydro jet is a high-pressure washer that, if sprayed into your drainage outlets, can clear the blockages in no time. The intense pressure in the water stream strips the solid waste material accumulated in your drains. Note that it is most effective when the source of the blockage is located close to the outlet. Otherwise, the stream might or might not reach the block. So, you will have to call professional drain plumbers to clear your blocked drains in Geelong.
Professional Assistance for Tough Blocks!
If you have tried your hand at one or all of these DIY unblocking methods and your blocked drain in Geelong persists, it’s a sign that you must avail yourself of professional drain-clearing services. So, rest your attempts and unblock your drains with expert help. Also, DIY solutions are often surface fixes; professional aid goes a long way toward a permanent solution. Professional drain unblocking begins with a proper diagnosis and ends with thorough cleaning work, so it’s comprehensive work with guaranteed results. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty and there is a complex blockage you need to get rid of, avail of our emergency plumbing in Melbourne or Geelong, and have the best in the field take care of your needs.
