Clearing Blocked Drains: Methods and Strategies from Experienced Plumbers

Posted by Inner West 24 Hour Plumber on 7 Mar 2025

A functioning plumbing system is crucial to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living space. The flushing of toilets, to taking a shower the well-maintained plumbing system makes sure that your daily routines are running smoothly.

Drains that are blocked are a typical problem that can disrupt the daily routine and cause serious issues if they are not addressed immediately. This article will examine the causes of clogged drains, the significance of hiring professional plumber and the different methods used by professional plumbers to clear drains that are blocked.

Techniques Used by Professional Plumbers

Drain Snakes

Drain snakes are an instrument that plumbers use to unclog drains. It is made up of a long flexible cable that has sharp edges that are placed through the drain. The cable is then rotated in order to allow it to grasp onto and remove any clogs that block drain water flow. There are various types of drain snakes, such as handheld, electric as well as closet augers. The benefits of using a drain snake are that it’s cost-effective as well as eco-friendly and efficient.

Hydro-jetting

Hydro-jetting is a technique employed by professional plumbers to unclog drains with high-pressure water streams. It sprays water over an nozzle and hose, allowing it to remove any buildup, such as hair or grease which is blocking the drain. Hydro-jetting’s advantages are that it is green, efficient, and effective.

Camera Inspection

Camera inspection is a technique used by professional plumbers to look inside drains and pipes using a tiny camera connected to a flexible, long cable. The camera broadcasts live video footage to a monitor, allowing the plumber to identify any issues that may be causing the blockages, that are causing the clog. The advantages of camera inspections are that it is non-invasive, efficient, and accurate.

Do-It-Yourself Methods

While do-it-yourself methods for unclogging drains may be appealing however, they’re rarely efficient, and may create more serious problems. Some common do-it-yourself methods include the use of chemical drain cleaners or plungers. Chemical drain cleaners can cause damage to pipes and do more harm than they are worth. Plungers on the other hand, can push clogs further down the pipes, leading to more significant issues. It is crucial to be aware of when to call an expert plumber.

Employing a Professional Plumber

In the case of addressing blocked drains, it’s crucial to employ an insured and licensed plumber. When choosing the services of a plumber, factors to consider include their experience as well as their availability and reputation. In the plumber visit, the plumber will analyze the problem and determine the best solution to tackle the issue. They will also provide an estimate of the cost prior to beginning any work.

Conclusion

The maintenance of a functional plumbing system is crucial to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment. Clogged drains are a common issue that could disrupt your daily routine and cause serious issues if they are not addressed immediately. Engaging a professional plumber is the best method to tackle the issue of blocked drains. Methods such as drain snakes hydro-jetting, camera inspections, and so on are effective and efficient methods employed by professionals who are plumbers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to clean my drains?

Although chemical drain cleaners may seem appealing, these products can be more harmful than beneficial through causing damage to pipes and more serious issues.

How often do I need to have my drains inspected by an plumber?

It is suggested to get your drains checked by a professional plumber every 1 to 2 years.

What can I do if I have an obstruction in my drain in the middle of the night?

If you experience a blocked drain during the night, it’s recommended to contact a professional plumber who can provide 24 hours of emergency services.

Does hiring a professional plumber cost me more money than doing it by myself?

Although employing an experienced plumber might seem expensive in the beginning but it could actually reduce your expenses over the long term by avoiding more serious issues that may arise when you take the DIY approach.

What can I do if the drain continues to clog even after the plumber has unclogged it?

If the drain is still clogging regardless of whether the plumber has cleared it this could indicate a more significant issue that is causing the issue, like corrosion or damage to the pipe. In this instance it is recommended to have a professional plumber assess the situation and decide the most effective course of action.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, having a functioning plumbing system is vital to ensure a healthy and comfortable living space. Although clogged drains are a common issue It is crucial to stay clear of DIY solutions and instead hire an insured and licensed professional plumber to resolve the issue. Professional plumbers use various techniques such as drain snakes, hydro-jetting, and camera inspections, which are effective and efficient methods to address clogged drains. Regular inspections conducted by a professional plumber can also help prevent more significant issues from occurring. Remember, when it comes to plumbing issues it’s always safer to be cautious rather than sorry.

Tags: Drains, Plumbing, Tools Categories: Blocked Drains, Plumber