Blocked drains in Oakleigh or anywhere else can be a real headache for homeowners, causing water to back up, foul smells to linger, and potentially damaging your property. But fear not. You can prevent and clear blockages in your drains with simple steps. This blog post will discuss the do's and don'ts of clearing blocked drains.

The Do's

Use a Plunger

A plunger is a tool to clear Blocked Drains in Oakleigh. It helps clear clogs in sinks, toilets, and showers. To use it, fill the sink or tub with water, place the plunger over the drain, and rapidly push and pull to create suction. It can dislodge the blockage and allow water to flow freely. If the plunger doesn't work, use a drain snake to remove the obstruction further. Plungers are inexpensive and widely available, making them a practical tool for homeowners and renters alike.

Use a Drain Snake

A drain snake clears clogged drains by breaking up and removing obstructions. It consists of a flexible wire inserted into the drain. When using a drain snake, insert it into the drain until you feel resistance, then rotate it to break up the blockage. Pull the snake out and dispose of any debris. With its flexibility, the drain snake can reach deep into the pipes, making it an effective tool for unclogging drains. The professionals at Doyle Plumbing Group use motorized drain snakes for efficient drain unclogging. Feel free to call the experts if the manual drain snakes at your home don't work.

Use Natural Remedies

Natural remedies like baking soda, vinegar, and hot water can effectively clear clogs in your drain. To use this method, pour a cup of baking soda, followed by a cup of vinegar. After a few minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. It can help break up the blockage and allow water to flow freely. However, consult a professional before using home remedies for blocked drains in Oakleigh to avoid contingencies.

Clean Your Drains Regularly

Regular cleaning of drains is essential to avoid blockages, which can lead to unpleasant odours, slow drainage, and even backups. Several other ways to keep your drains clean include using a drain strainer to catch food particles and hair, avoiding pouring grease and oil down the drain, and using a plunger to clear minor blockages.

Call a Professional

If you experience a pipe blockage, call a professional plumber from the Doyle Plumbing Group if you can't clear it yourself. Using improper tools or methods may worsen the problem and lead to expensive repairs. Professional plumbers have the expertise and tools to clear the blockage safely and effectively restore the proper water flow. Additionally, they can identify underlying issues that may have caused the blockage and suggest preventative measures.

The Don'ts

Pour Grease Down the Drain

Pouring grease down the drain can cause Blocked drains in Oakleigh. When grease and oil cool, they can solidify and stick to the walls of your pipes, causing a buildup of debris that can restrict water flow. Over time, this buildup can lead to a complete blockage, causing a backup of wastewater and potentially costly repairs. To avoid this problem, pour grease and oil into a container and dispose of it in the trash.

Flush Non-degradable Items Down the Toilet

Items like wipes, dental floss, and cotton balls can cause blockages in your pipes if flushed down the toilet. These items do not break down easily and can get caught in the pipes' bends, causing a debris buildup that restricts water flow. Over time, this can lead to a complete blockage and cause a backup of wastewater. To avoid this problem, dispose of these items in the trash. Also, you can consult the experts at Doyle Plumbing Group to know what you can flush down the toilet.

Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners can be effective in clearing blockages but can also be harsh on your pipes and damage them over time. The chemicals in these products can corrode the inside of your pipes, leading to leaks and other plumbing problems. They can also be dangerous if not used properly, as they can release toxic fumes and cause chemical burns. Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, try natural remedies such as baking soda and vinegar, or call an expert plumber to clear the blockage.

Ignore Slow Drains

A slow drain is often an early sign of a blockage forming in your pipes. Ignoring it will only

worsen the problem, as the blockage will continue to grow and potentially cause a complete backup of wastewater. Taking action and clearing the blockage before it becomes a significant issue is essential. You can use a plunger or a drain snake to clear the blocked drains in Oakleigh or call a professional plumber for assistance.

Summing Up

Clearing blocked drains can be simple if you follow these dos and don'ts. Remember to use natural remedies, avoid pouring grease down the drain, and call professionals from Doyle Plumbing Group if necessary. By taking these steps, you can prevent blockages and keep your drains flowing smoothly.

The Do's and Don'ts of Clearing Blocked Drains