There are plenty of things that you can do on your own that will save you money, but there are some that are better left to professionals. One of the worst is a blocked drain.
There are many signs of a blockage, including gurgling noises and puddles around the toilet or kitchen sink. Trying to fix a blocked drain without a plumber can lead to further damage and expensive repairs.
Why you should hire a plumber
Trying to clear blocked drains on your own can be dangerous and expensive. It can also be difficult to know when a clog is serious or not. It’s important to hire a plumber who has experience with this type of work and the right equipment. They can use specialised tools to clear even the most stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes.
A blocked drain can cause unpleasant odours and water back-up in your home. A gurgling sound from your sink is often an early sign of a blockage. This is caused by air bubbles escaping from the clogged pipe. A professional plumber can fix the issue before it becomes a full-blown sewage backup. They can also clean out your sewer lines to prevent further problems. They can even install new pipes to improve your plumbing system’s functionality. This can reduce your water bills and improve your health by preventing the spread of disease. They can also save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs.
Gurgling noises
The gurgling noises you hear while using sinks, toilets, and showers are often caused by air trapped in the clogged pipes. These gurgling sounds can also occur when multiple plumbing fixtures are being used simultaneously, such as running the dishwasher while someone is taking a shower or flushing the toilet. These gurgling noises are indicative of an impending blockage and should be addressed immediately.
Another early warning sign of a blocked drain is a foul smell. This is because a clog can trap food and other organic waste, which will cause it to decompose and release unpleasant odors. The smell can also be more pronounced if multiple fixtures are affected.
It is important to note that a plumber will need to be hired to clear a heavily blocked drain. The best way to identify the location of a clog is to use a professional drain camera. This will help the plumber locate the clog and determine its severity.
Damage to your pipes
While some people try to use DIY methods for blockages, this can be damaging to your pipes. Chemical cleaners can corrode the surface of your pipes and leave
behind a caustic, toxic sludge. Homeowners often end up hiring plumbers to repair these damages, which can be costly.
A professional plumber will drain the affected area before working on it. They will also wear appropriate safety gear and may need to shut off the water supply to the entire house before starting work. This will prevent further water damage and ensure a safe working environment.
Plumbers also install new pipes for water supply, drainage, and gas. They may need to cut holes in walls and floors and hang steel supports from joists. They can also use pipe cutters and saws to make clean, square cuts in pipes. They might also need to solder, gluing, or thread pipes depending on the material used. They also connect sinks, toilets, and tubs to the pipes.
Cost
While you can use a drain snake (or auger) purchased at the hardware store, if your clog is very severe or is in a hard-to-reach spot, a professional plumber will need to clear it using a machine.
Kitchen and bathroom drains clog over time from food scraps, soap scum, hair, toilet paper, and other debris. These typically take less than an hour for a plumber to clear. A bathtub drain is more challenging and requires removing the shower or tub fixture to access the drain pipes. These usually take longer to snake.
Sewer line clogs are very serious and need to be addressed immediately. They can cause wastewater to back up into your home, and you will need a professional plumber to diagnose the issue and fix it. This can cost $150 to $800 or more, depending on the type of clog, location, and tools used. It can also be more expensive if a pipe needs to be replaced. But this will prevent costly self repairs that go bad. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-melbourne/ can provide you with more resources on plumbing services like blocked drains.
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