7 Effective Ways to Clear Blocked Drains

Blockages can strike when you least expect them, as a homeowner, it pays to be prepared to with one. Because left untreated, the blockages can cause water to leak out of your drains, that can potentially damage your home or business establishment. Severe blockages can also result in burst pipes, which can cost you more. 

Here are some primary options you have to get rid of blocked drains Sydney before you call a plumber for blocked drain services.

Boiling Water

It is a quick and easy fix for your blocked drains – pouring a pot of boiling water into the drains. In many cases, it can loosen or dissolve the blockage without having to resort to drastic measures. However, only use this method when you have a metal or ceramic pipe. Pouring hot water on PVC pipes can loosen the joints. This method is useful for grease or food build-up but not on solid blockages.

DIY Natural Cleaner

Pour baking soda with vinegar into the drain as your DIY natural cleaner. Pour the bicarb first them followed by the vinegar, cover the drain to prevent the mixture from bubbling out of the pipe. The chemical reaction between the two, produce oxygen that scours the inside of the pipes, clearing it out. Repeat the process to get rid of the blockage and flush the pipes with hot water after.

Caustic Cleaner

You can purchase chemical drain cleaners from your supermarket or local hardware. These chemicals are powerful; they can dissolve food, hair, grease, and other common blockages. They are harmful to the environment, so use them sparingly. It cannot work on roots or small household items, though. 

Plunger

A plunger can clear a blocked drain just as it can remove the toilet. Make sure that you cover the overflow spouts before you start plunging so that you have a good seal. The up and down pressure created by the plunger can loosen the blockages on the pipes. It is useful for solid obstructions but not on grease.

Snake and CCTV

For blocked drains Sydney, a plumber’s snake or electric eel tool that is suitable for more severe blockages. The rotating coil at the end of the cable spins rapidly, chipping away at the blockage until it has been cleared. Snakes have a limited range, and the blockage needs to be near the opening of the drain to be effective.

Hydro-Jet

These are the powerful stream of water through the pipes. The pressure is created then forces the blockage through the pipes and out so that the water can flow through once more. This method is safer for the pipes but not as useful for solid blockages. 

Excavation

In the most extreme cases, the pipes may require full excavation. An expert plumber can identify the exact location of the blockage so that they know which pipes need to be excavated. After digging out the earth around the pipe, the plumber can repair or replace the pipe in question. The land around the new pipe is filled back in around the pipe, and the property is restored to the original state. 

In Sydney, if you need blocked drains services, you can contact BN Plumbing. They are expert with clearing drains and other plumbing issues.