Simple DIY fixes are not always effective. While getting your hands dirty and tackling a blocked drain yourself is tempting, you might miss underlying issues only a trained eye can spot. Even worse, you might turn a minor clog into a major plumbing disaster.
Certain jobs require a professional. Tackling stubborn clogs often requires specialized tools and industry-grade products. And technicians with the knowledge and experience to wield them safely and effectively.
Here are five drain solutions that are best left to the pros at Drain Fixers.
1. Releasing pressure from the sewer line
Direct action at the drain source might not always be required when water backs up into your home. A good first step is to release the pressure from the sewer line. A professional will first turn off the main water supply and locate your sewer’s clean-out line (usually a capped pipe outside).
Opening this just slightly will help to release any pent-up pressure. In best-case scenarios, this simple action will slowly drain away the blockage, and things should start flowing freely again. While it won’t work for every clog, it’s a smart first move that most pros make.
2. Using cleaning chemicals
Cleaning chemicals like copper sulfate are a great way to clear out tree roots and organic debris. However, many of these products are dangerous — using them incorrectly can damage your pipes. There are also health risks from spills and toxic fumes. That’s why it’s best to leave chemical draining solutions to the experts.
A professional will know:
- Which chemical is best for your blockage and pipe material
- How to apply it safely and effectively without damaging your plumbing or home
- How much to apply — overuse can make things
- When not to use chemicals and opt for mechanical solutions instead
- How to protect your home from splashes and fumes
3. Offering expert advice
Not every blocked drain needs emergency assistance. Just a quick consultation with an expert can be enough. They will impart advice and tips, enabling you to complete a quick DIY fix if it’s only a minor blockage. The key is reaching out to a professional to find out what to do next.
Don’t hesitate to contact a local plumber or drain fixer before jumping in head first with a solution that might not be suitable. If the problem persists, you can then book a professional drain inspection later.
4. Mechanical drain cleaning
Only the pros have specialized tools and machines to cut through tougher clogs. At Drain Fixers, we have drain snakes, high-pressure hydro jets, root cutters, and other equipment built for dislodging the most stubborn blockages. However, while mechanical cleaning is very effective, it’s dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.
That’s why it’s another job best left to experienced drain cleaning technicians. They will know:
- How to handle mechanical tools safely
- Which equipment to use based on the type of blockage and the condition of your pipes
- How to avoid damaging your pipes, as well as other fixtures and fittings in your home
- How to fully clear the clog instead of pushing it further down
- When to stop and investigate with CCTV and other tools if the clog is part of a bigger issue
5. CCTV drain inspections
Pros can see what you can’t. Using CCTV drain cameras to inspect every inch of your pipes can be a game-changer — one of the best blocked drain pipe solutions.
Feeding a small camera into your pipes will give a clear view of what’s going on underground. This is a great way to accurately diagnose what’s causing a blocked sewer pipe. More importantly, it will ensure the solution is tailored to the actual problem and doesn’t involve any guesswork.
CCTV drain inspections can also:
- Identify structural issues before they get worse. Cameras reveal cracks and misaligned joints that could soon pose major problems. Catching these early means you can plan repairs on your terms, not when dealing with emergency leaks and bursts.
- Document the condition for insurance claims. Video footage from cameras can also be used as evidence if you need to file an insurance claim for pipe damage. Clear visual proof of the cause and extent of the problem can streamline the claims process.
Don’t tackle a blocked sewer alone
Drain and sewer blockages are a nightmare for any homeowner. However, fast fixes handled improperly can often make the problem even worse. If you’re battling with slow drains and other signs of a major clog, Drain Fixers can save the day.
We offer draining solutions across Melbourne. Our team has the tools and experience to deliver fast and effective drain repairs. No job is too big for us. We can conduct CCTV drain inspections and carry out chemical and mechanical drain cleaning.
Contact us today to book a service and get your pipes sorted the right way.
