Clogged drains account for 13.4% of water damage incidents in Australian homes. While plungers are a lifesaver, you will need professional help to open severely blocked drains.
A quick DIY fix is tempting and gets rid of minor clogs, but the real question is whether you need a regular plumber or a drain specialist and when you need help. Here’s how to tell.
Why a Professional Plumber Is Your Best Bet
You need a plumbing specialist for all plumbing problems, but most blocked drains do. Professional plumbers have the experience, tools, and know-how to clear blockages safely without any damage.
Why should you call a professional?
They have the right tools for the job
A standard plunger works wonders to clear minor blockages, but stubborn ones? You will need professional-grade equipment like drain snakes or hydro-jetting machines that only a professional knows how to use.
They know what to look for
Sometimes, a blockage isn’t just about food scraps or hair; tree roots invade your pipes, or a drain collapses. Plumbers use CCTV drain cameras to inspect the pipes and find the exact cause.
They prevent further damage
The moment you suspect drain blockage, you pour chemicals down the drain. It works, but the harsh chemicals can corrode pipes over time. A professional will clear the blockage without damaging your plumbing system.
Signs You Need a Drain Specialist
The Blockage Keeps Coming Back
You have tried plunging a blockade, but it won’t budge; you are likely dealing with more than just surface-level buildup. Repeated blockages could indicate a partial pipe collapse, grease buildup, or even tree root intrusion.
Slow Draining Water
Slow water drains are a clear sign that your drain pipes are clogged. Over time, grease, soap, and debris clumps together and narrows the pipe’s opening, which makes it harder for water to pass through.
Unpleasant Smells
Food waste, grease, and other organic matter trapped inside a drain start to rot and release foul odors. If your sink or bathroom smells bad even after cleaning, it’s time to call a professional.
Multiple Blocked Drains at Once
One clogged sink is a local issue, but when your multiple drains are slow or are backing up at the same time, it is a sign there is a blockage in the main sewer line. That’s a job for a specialist with advanced tools like hydro-jetting and CCTV drain cameras.
Gurgling Noises from Drains
Hearing strange gurgling sounds when water goes down the drain? Air is likely trapped due to a blockage. A partial clog in the pipes causes these gurgling sounds and needs professional attention.
Who Should You Call, A Plumber or a Drain Specialist?
Doesn’t a plumber know how to clear the drains? They do, but not all plumbers specialize in drain issues, so knowing when to call a general plumber and when to call a drain specialist saves you a lot of time and trouble.
If it is a simple problem, like a clogged sink or a minor toilet blockage, call a licensed plumber. But if the drain is severely blocked, call a drain specialist, as they will have advanced tools and expertise to do the job.
Don’t Wait Until It’s an Emergency
Blocked drains are not going to fix themselves. The longer you wait, the worse the blockage will be. If you ignore a slow drain today, it will turn into a full-blown plumbing emergency tomorrow, leading to water damage, expensive repairs, or even health hazards from sewage backups.
Call a licensed plumber at the first sign of trouble and avoid risky DIY fixes because they make matters worse. A quick professional check will save you from bigger headaches down the track.
We have specialists who deal with all kinds of plumbing troubles, not only draining your wallets but your energy. Call today to get help from professional plumbers and drain specialists in Adelaide.