Getting a blocked drain is one of the common nuisances in the household. But, when left unattended, it can lead to a range of problems. From unpleasant odours to potential water damage, it can harm the home environment in many ways.
Although some minor blockages can be tackled with Do It Yourself (DIY) solutions, there are circumstances when you need to call a professional plumber.
In this article, we’ll explore the signs of blocked drains, common causes, and when it’s time to seek the expertise of a plumbing professional. But before that, let’s discuss why, at times, the off-the-shelf products don’t work.
Why to Call a Professional Plumber For Blocked Drain Repairs
While encountering a blocked kitchen sink, for instance, most people try home remedies. These are effective for small sink blockage cleaning and work within no time. But in case of deep blockages, these remedies mostly don’t work or act temporarily.
A qualified professional plumber will get to the roof of the problem and solve the drainage problems. From disassembling to assembling the pipelines, he/she is trained to perform the task within the given time and provide long-term solutions.
Understanding the Signs of Blocked Drains
Recognizing the signs of a blocked drain is the first step in addressing the clogged drain. The signs can manifest gradually or suddenly, but it’s essential to be vigilant about them and prevent further damage. Here are some common indicators of a blocked drain:
● Slow Drainage
It’s the first and foremost sign of blocked drains. If the water takes more time to pass through the sink, bathtub, or shower, it might lead to a blocked drain.
● Unpleasant Odors
A foul smell emanating from the drains is a clear indication of a problem. Blocked drains can trap food particles, hair, and debris, leading to unpleasant odours, which is further bad for the environment.
● Gurgling Sounds
Hearing the gurgling noises while water drains might indicate that air is trapped in the pipes. This is a clear sign of blockage and states that the drain is not functioning properly.
● Water Backing Up
The most alarming sign of a blocked drain is when wastewater starts to back up into the sink, bathtub, or toilet. This clearly indicates that there’s a significant blockage, and it needs proper professional attention.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
Understanding the common causes of blocked drains can help one take preventive measures. Some of the leading causes of blocked drains include:
● Foreign Objects: Objects like children’s toys, sanitary products, and paper towels are often flushed down toilets or washed into drains, causing blockages.
● Hair and Soap Scum: In bathroom drains, hair and soap scum can accumulate over time, leading to blockages.
● Food Waste: In kitchen sinks, food particles and grease can build up in the pipes, restricting water flow.
● Tree Roots: In outdoor drains, tree roots can infiltrate and damage pipes, causing blockages.
● Broken or Collapsed Pipes: Aging or damaged pipes can collapse or break, leading to blockages.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Professional plumbers have the technical knowledge and experience to provide instant solutions to a blocked drain. They can disassemble the pipes, fix the problem, and assemble them within no time.
Following are some situations where it’s best to call a professional plumber:
● Recurring Blockages
If DIY provides only a temporary solution and one of the above causes occurs repeatedly, it may indicate a more significant underlying issue. A plumber can assess the problem and provide a long-term solution.
For instance, if the water is not passing from the bathroom shower, it requires a professional plumber to check the water connection from the main line and eliminate the problem.
● Multiple Blocked Drains:
When multiple drains in homes are affected at the same time, it may indicate a clog deeper in the main sewer line, which can be solved by calling a professional plumber.
The professional plumber will disassemble the pipelines, sift through them, and provide you with a solution. If there’s any cut or damage, he/she might ask you to replace it with a new one.
● No Improvement with DIY Efforts
If DIY attempts to clear a blockage prove unsuccessful or the problem persists, it’s time to consult a plumber who can use specialized equipment to diagnose and resolve the issue.
The kitchen sink, for instance, is clogged with foreign objects in between the pipe and the sink. The professionals have the necessary tools to remove them without destroying the whole structure of the pipeline.
● Unusual Drainage Problems
If one notices strange noises, unusual odours, or wastewater backing up into your home, these are critical warning signs that should prompt an immediate call to a plumber.
For instance, the water tank’s main pipeline might get unfiltered objects. This might affect the quality of water, which may spread diseases. A professional will help to eliminate such hazards and clean the source pipelines.
● Preventative Maintenance
Even when drains appear to be working fine, it’s a good idea to schedule periodic plumbing inspections and maintenance to catch and address potential issues before they become major problems.
To Conclude:
In conclusion, dealing with blocked drains is a common household challenge, but it’s essential to recognize the signs, understand the causes, and know when to call a professional plumber.
Timely action can save more extensive damage and costly repairs. Whether it’s a stubborn blockage, recurring issues, or a major drainage problem, a professional plumber has the expertise and equipment to provide practical solutions and restore the plumbing system to optimal functionality. Contact us to have the blocked drain plumber at your doorstep.
