When Should I Call A Plumber For A Blocked Drain?

A blocked drain is something everyone has to deal with at some time or another. It’s a frustrating problem, made worse by the fact it is almost impossible to know exactly what is going on.

Sometimes a blocked drain will clear on its own, but this is not likely. More serious and stubborn blocked drains require the services of an expert plumber in Port Macquarie.

This poses the question, when should I be calling a plumber for a blocked drain? In this blog, we are going to answer the question by looking at the most common causes of blocked drains, and when to call in a professional to resolve the issue before it gets out of hand.

What Can Cause Drains To Become Blocked?

Drains can become blocked for several reasons, and this can be discussed and broken down into the following three areas in your home:

• Bathroom: These represent the most common blockages. Toilets get backed up by flushing things down that you shouldn’t be. Showers and sinks can become clogged with hair and congealed soaps over time.
• Kitchen: The kitchen is the second most likely place to suffer a blockage. Sinks can become clogged with waste food and congealed cooking oils if you do not dispose of these separately. A faulty dishwasher can also clog the drain if the water isn’t getting hot enough to dissolve the pods and any food residue.
• Outside: Falling leaves and debris are the biggest cause of blocked drains outside the home when this flows down your guttering. They can also become blocked by tree roots penetrating stormwater pipes. This is the most serious type of blockage which needs specialist equipment to diagnose and repair.
  

How To Prevent Your Drains From Becoming Blocked

Most indoor drain blockages can be easily prevented using drain strainers and disposing of cooking oils separately.

Outside stormwater blockages can be avoided by removing leaf debris before it starts to break down. You may also want to install drain guards to prevent leaves from going down your gutters and into the drain in the first place.

Tips To Clear The Blockage Yourself

Not all drain blockages are serious, so before you call a plumber you may want to try unblocking the drain yourself so that you don’t waste the call out. Here are a few tips that are proven to work on less serious blockages:

• Sink Plungers: Sink plungers are great for clearing blockages in the sink, bath, and shower. Place the plunger over the plug hole. Then fill the sink/bath with water to cover the base of the plunger. This creates a tight seal. Now pump the plunger vigorously several times. If this does not solve the issue, you will likely need to call a plumber.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This can work on small blockages. Start by pouring boiling water down the drain. Then combine 1 part baking soda/1 part vinegar. Mix until it starts frothing. Pour the frothing mixture down the plug hole and cover with a plug. Wait five minutes, then flush with boiling water. If this does not work you will most likely need to call a plumber to assist.

When You Should Call A Plumber For A Blocked Drain

So you’ve tried all the above methods and your drain is still blocked. Now is the time to call a plumber. DO NOT try more invasive repairs yourself, there is a risk you will damage the pipes or drain lining. This will result in a major leak which will be expensive to repair and may cause serious damage to your property.

We also don’t recommend using chemical drain cleaners. These are not only dangerous to the pets and wildlife living in your garden but are also corrosive and can damage the drain lining if used incorrectly. And if the drain is leaking it can cause these chemicals to leach into the surrounding soil.

So, if in doubt, call a local expert plumber in Port Macquarie to resolve the issue professionally as soon as possible.

Got A Blocked Drain In Port Macquarie?

Do you live in Port Macquarie and have a blocked drain that you just can’t shift? Don’t panic, we’ve got you covered.

All our plumbers carry specialist equipment to unclog drains of all types both inside and outside the home. Get in touch with Carrick Plumbing & Roofing by calling (02) 6581 4589 or completing our online contact form to arrange a booking now.