One of the most common plumbing issues or problems experienced within Australia are blocked drains. Occuring at any moment in time, leaving a blocked drain can lead to more severe difficulties. Such as water leaking from pipes, learning how to deal with this concern is important so you know how to fix the issue. At Optical Plumbing Service we provide the most exceptional service when knowing how to source and resolve blocked drains. With our experienced knowledge, here are some useful guides on how to personally deal with blocked drains.
Blocked drains can lead to damage to homes and facilities if left unnoticed and resolved. Burst pipes and water leakages from drains, as well as many more complications, can cost a lot of money to repair and time to fix. Simple steps such as boiling water, different types of cleaners and even the classic plunger can help you or a plumber to eliminate blocked drains.
1. Boiling Water
If a metallic or ceramic pipe is blocked, this method can resolve the issue. Simply pouring boiling hot water down the drain can dissolve the blockage that is ruining the pipe. This method, if successful, allows for expenses to be ignored and not as much work involved. For pipes that are made from PVC (or Polyvinyl chloride), boiling water will loosen the joints of the pipe. This is unwanted, therefore, directly pour hot (NOT boiling) tap water down the drain to remove grease or a build-up of leftover food.
2. Bent Wire Hanger
By using a wire or anything alike, bending it to make it as straight as possible with a small hook at the end is this process. By placing it in the drain,you are able to pick up any of the blockage, like hair. This is not the most effective method, yet, can eliminate most of the solids that are blocked and in range.
3. Plunger
A plunger may be used as you would unclog a blocked toilet. To get a strong seal, cover any overflow spouts before the plunging process begins. The method to plug will be by using up and down motions/ pressure to loosen the blockage. This type of unblock-age drain procedures is good for solid masses in the drains, yet, not efficient at grease or other substance build-ups
4. Self-Assembled Natural Cleaner
By using the substances of bicarb soda (baking soda) as well as white vinegar can potentially dissolve unwanted blockage. The combination/ chemical reaction of the two products creates oxygen which cleans and clears the inside of the drains/ pipes. Firstly pouring the bicarb soda then followed by the white vinegar will cause the chemical reaction (careful to cover the drain so bubbles do not fly up). Repeating this process is common, yet, it is effective to clear out the blocked drain. Also, flushing the pipe with hot water after the process is completed will be important to prevent residue to build-up.
5. Corrosive Cleaner
Caustic cleaner may be utilised in order to dissolve hair, grease, food and other blockage. It can be purchased at a supermarket or local hardware store. However, this type of process will be extremely harmful to the environment due to all the chemicals involved. Additionally, it is limited to not have the power to dissolve solid masses like small household items or tree roots. If continuing to use this cleaner, be careful to wear gloves, protect skin and eyes and flush the pipes after finishing with water.
6. Hydro-jet
This method has a powerful blast of water to stream through the blocked pipes and drains. This is because the pressure the water makes forces the amounts of obstruction to be eliminated. Hydro-jet is not as effective in getting rid of solids, however, it is safer and causes less damage than other methods. A professional and qualified plumber is advised to do this work so the pipes can be cleaned properly.
7. Snake and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)
Often used for heavy blockages, these tools enter the blocked drain to remove the severe amount of waste. It works by a rotating coil on the end bit of the cable spinning fastly to chip away any obstruction in the pipe. These devices have limited range, therefore, the unwanted clog needs to be further up the drain. A downside of this method involves the chance that the pip may be ruined or damaged in the process which is why this is often one of the last resorts.
8. Excavation to Access the Pipes
This extensive task will only happen in extreme cases. Only a qualified plumber has both the qualification and experience to undergo this type of anti-blockage. The plumber needs the exact location of the pipes to either repair or replace the pipes. The process can be restored after it has finished to revert the location back to normal. This method is, of course, more complicated and time consuming, that is why it is left for severe cases.
Sydney Blocked Drain Specialists
These steps mostly are able to be performed by yourself, however, qualified plumber are able to do it quicker and with little risks involved. The Department of Health can also provide more information with blocked drains and why they need to be addressed promptly. Issues with watch not being able to flow properly can lead to it going elsewhere, like outside. If there is contact with these contaminated waters, the risk of diseases are high. If the chance that your drains are extremely blocked, it is recommended to use our services. With our experience with a range of blocked drains, we can easily resolve your issues. We work in Sydney and also have an Emergency plumber service available 24/7 to alway address your needs. Call us today or contact us via email at contact@optimisedplumbingservices.com.au so we are able to fix and unclog your obstructed drains.
