How to Know Whether you need to Call a Professional Plumber for a Blocked Drain

Posted by Inner West 24 Hour Plumber on 26 Jan 2026

Clogged drains are an atypical plumbing issue that can create discomfort and even health risks If not treated promptly. In this post, we’ll examine the symptoms of a blocked drain and DIY solutions to unblock and when to contact an plumber, benefits of employing an experienced plumber and suggestions for preventing.

The Signs of a Blocked Drain

If you notice any of these signs it could be an obstruction in your drain:

  • Slow draining water in sinks, tubs, or showers
  • The sound of gurgling is coming from the drain
  • The smell of foul-smelling odors is coming from your drain
  • Water backup in tubs, sinks, or showers
  • Standing water in the toilet bowl

DIY Methods for Unclogging a drain

Here are a few DIY ways to try before calling an plumber: Use of a plunger: The plunger is a popular tool employed to clear toilets and sinks. It works by creating pressure to push the blockage through the drain. Use of a drain snake Drain snakes are a flexible cable that is inserted inside the drain in order to open up and remove obstructions. Use of natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar: Mix baking soda and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio and pour it down the drain. It should rest for 30 minutes, and then flush using hot water. Commercial drain cleaners: Take care when using chemical drain cleaners because they could damage plumbing fixtures and pipes. Always follow the instructions carefully.

When to call for a Plumber

If DIY methods don’t work to unblock the drainage, or if observe any of the following indicators, you need to get a professional plumber:

  • Many drains throughout the house are blocked at the same time
  • Strange sounds coming from pipes or fixtures
  • Odors continue to persist after clearing the drain
  • Backflow of water or sewage from drains

The advantages of hiring a professional Plumber

There are many advantages to hiring a professional plumber to clear drains that are clogged such as:

  • Access to specialized tools and equipment
  • Knowledge and experience in dealing with complex plumbing issues
  • Professional diagnosis of underlying plumbing problems
  • Long-term solutions to avoid the development of drain clogs in the future.

Conclusion

Drains that are blocked can be an issue however, if you are aware of the signs and applying the appropriate DIY methods to clear them, you are able to often remove them yourself. If the issue persists or you observe any of the symptoms previously mentioned, it’s recommended to consult an experienced plumber. Not only can they resolve the issue, but they can assist you in preventing future obstructions.

FAQ

What are the causes of drain clogs?

Drain clogs can be caused by a variety of things, including hair soap scum, food particles, grease, and foreign objects.

How can I prevent blocked drains?

You can prevent clogged drains by not putting large amounts of grease, food, and other debris into the drain. Use drain guards to catch hair as well as other debris, and also avoid pouring chemical into the drain.

Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners?

While chemical drain cleaners can be effective, they can also damage the pipes as well as fixtures. Always follow the instructions cautiously and use them sparingly.

What should I do if I encounter an emergency plumbing situation outside of normal business hours?

Our company offers 24 hour plumbing services. You can call us anytime, any time of the day or at night.

How much will it cost to hire a professional plumber to do drain cleaning?

Costs for hiring a professional plumber for drain cleaning may differ based on the severity of the blockage and its area. However, it’s always best to obtain a quote from the plumber prior to beginning the work to avoid any unpleasant surprises. We at Inner West 24 Hour Plumber, our 24-hour plumbers are trained and skilled in handling a wide range of plumbing services for residential use. If you’re experiencing a blocked drain or other plumbing problem do not hesitate to contact the number 1300 948 565. We’re here to assist you with all of your plumbing issues throughout Inner West.