Blocked drains are an inconvenience and, of course, you want to get them fixed as quickly as possible.
Sometimes a blockage in your drain can be easily fixed yourself with a bit of DIY. It makes perfect sense to try to fix issues like this yourself, saving you the time and expense of contacting a plumber.
However, sometimes you need professional tools and expertise to deal with the blockage safely and effectively. Trying to do it yourself in these instances risks causing more damage to the system and costing you more in the long run.
If you’re not sure whether it’s worth contacting a professional, you can read on below to help you to decide. We’ll discuss a few scenarios where contacting a plumber is the most sensible option.
1. When standard products aren’t working
The products you find in shops and supermarkets for unblocking drains usually work ok on minor blockages. When you want to unblock your drain yourself, trying one of these products is often a good starting point.
However, for more severe blockages these standard products are likely not going to be enough. You might find that the product doesn’t affect things at all, meaning the block is more substantial or complex than you first expected.
In this situation, contacting a professional plumber is a wise decision. Plumbers can use alternative methods to unblock the drain more effectively, quickly, and safely.
There are also cases where the product works initially and fixes the problem for a few days or weeks. The issue then restarts, meaning you have to spend more on buying more products. This can really add up over time.
Persistent problems like this can be caused by excess build-up in the drains. Continuing to try to fix things yourself can potentially cause more damage, as the chemical in some of these products can damage your plumbing if used excessively.
A professional plumber can ensure that the drains are cleared thoroughly in this situation so that the problem stops coming back.
2. When plunging doesn’t work
Many people also attempt plunging to clear blocked drains at home. It’s common knowledge that plunging can be an effective way to clear a blockage. Plunging may well clear a more stubborn blockage but if it’s not working you will need a professional to do the job.
As well as having the right plunger for the job, you need to understand the technique for clearing different blockages. If you don’t have the right tools or technique, or if plunging isn’t working at all, it’s time to contact a plumber.
Plumbers have professional tools and equipment, as well as the right knowledge and training, to clear various blockages efficiently and effectively.
3. When a variety of tools aren’t working
In addition to plunging, you might try a variety of other unblocking tools. We do not recommend this as you could cause more damage attempting this with tools that you may not use correctly.
If you’re not sure about how to use these tools or if the blockage persists, it’s time to enlist specialist services. Trained plumbers understand the correct techniques to use and have access to a wider range of tools and equipment to clear blockages successfully.
4. If sewage is spreading
You can tell the blockage is severe if sewage is spreading. At this point, you can be certain that you need professional services. Even if only a small amount of mess is spreading this cannot be ignored – a small amount is only likely to grow and will cause a foul smell in the home.
You should contact a plumber as soon as you notice this happening. Plumbing specialists are able to identify and resolve the problem before it gets much worse. It’s highly unlikely that you can fix this problem with DIY measures, so be sure to seek help.
Contact a Professional Team Now
If you are experiencing any of these issues then don’t delay in contacting a professional team. Plumbers have extensive knowledge and equipment to clear blocked drains efficiently and prevent the problem from reoccurring.
Using a plumber now can save you time, expense, and inconvenience in the long run.
We are a family-owned business specialising in a comprehensive range of plumbing services, including services for blocked drains. We offer a reliable service throughout the Sunshine Coast and can clear blockages if DIY measures aren’t working.
If you need help with a blocked drain, you can contact us for a reliable solution now.
