When a blocked drain disrupts your home, it can be tempting to grab a plunger, a bottle of drain cleaner, or try a DIY fix. After all, many quick-fix methods are touted as simple solutions for clogged pipes. However, while it might seem like a good idea at the time, trying to fix a blocked drain on your own often leads to more harm than good.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why DIY methods for fixing blocked drains should be avoided and why professional drainage services offer a more effective, safer, and long-lasting solution.

1. DIY Methods Often Provide Temporary Relief, Not a Long-Term Fix

One of the main issues with DIY methods for fixing a blocked drain is that they typically only provide short-term relief. Tools like plungers or home remedies, such as baking soda and vinegar, may temporarily clear a minor blockage, but they don’t address the underlying issue.

If the blockage is caused by something more serious, like tree roots invading the pipes or a structural issue, DIY fixes will only mask the problem for a short time. As a result, the blockage is likely to reoccur, sometimes even worse than before.

Why Professional Services Are Better:

Professional drainage services use advanced tools like CCTV cameras and high-pressure water jets to thoroughly investigate and remove blockages at their source, ensuring the problem doesn’t come back.

2. Drain Cleaners Can Cause More Damage Than Good

Many DIY enthusiasts turn to chemical drain cleaners when facing a blocked drain. While these products are widely available, they come with significant risks. Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh acids and chemicals designed to dissolve blockages, but they can also damage your pipes.

If used repeatedly or improperly, these chemicals can corrode both metal and plastic pipes, leading to leaks or even pipe collapse over time. In addition to this, chemical cleaners are harmful to the environment and can be dangerous to handle.

Why Professional Services Are Better:

Professionals use environmentally safe methods like hydro-jetting, which clears blockages without damaging your pipes or posing health risks. This is a more sustainable and effective approach to drain cleaning.

3. You Could Misdiagnose the Problem

Blocked drains can be caused by a range of issues, from simple grease build-up to more complex problems like pipe collapse or tree root intrusion. As a homeowner, you may not have the experience or tools to properly diagnose the cause of the blockage. Misdiagnosing the problem could lead to improper fixes, which could make the situation worse.

For example, using a plunger on a drain blocked by tree roots won’t solve the problem. In fact, it could push the blockage further into the pipes, making it harder to remove.

Why Professional Services Are Better:

With access to state-of-the-art CCTV surveys, professional drainage services can precisely identify the cause and location of the blockage. This ensures that the most appropriate solution is applied, saving you time and money in the long run.

4. DIY Methods Can Be Dangerous

Attempting to fix a blocked drain can also be hazardous, especially if you’re dealing with chemical drain cleaners, sewage backups, or high-pressure equipment. Many DIYers underestimate the risks involved, such as exposure to harmful substances or accidents caused by improper tool use.

Working with sewage or wastewater also poses health risks, as it can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Without the proper protective gear and knowledge, you could expose yourself to serious illnesses.

Why Professional Services Are Better:

Professionals are trained to handle dangerous situations safely. They have the right equipment, protective gear, and experience to deal with hazardous materials like sewage, ensuring the safety of both you and your home.

5. DIY Fixes May Lead to More Expensive Repairs Later

One of the biggest dangers of DIY drain fixes is the potential for causing further damage to your plumbing system. If you don’t have the proper tools or knowledge, you may accidentally damage your pipes, leading to leaks, pipe bursts, or complete drain failure. What might start as a simple blocked drain could escalate into a major plumbing emergency, costing you significantly more to fix.

For example, using an auger or snake incorrectly could scratch or puncture your pipes, leading to costly repairs. In the worst-case scenario, you could cause a flood in your home, damaging floors, walls, and furniture.

Why Professional Services Are Better:

By hiring a professional drainage service from the start, you avoid the risk of making the problem worse. Professionals can fix the issue correctly the first time, preventing the need for expensive repairs later on.

6. Professional Services Offer Comprehensive Solutions

When you hire a professional drainage service, you’re not just getting a quick fix for the current blockage. You’re also getting a comprehensive solution that will prevent future problems. Drainage experts can provide maintenance advice, suggest preventative measures, and perform services like drain cleaning or pipe relining to keep your system running smoothly.

They can also identify potential issues early on, such as minor cracks or pipe deterioration, before they develop into more serious problems.

Why Professional Services Are Better:

Preventative maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs and ongoing drainage issues. With regular professional services, you can ensure that your pipes stay clear and functional for years to come.

While it might be tempting to tackle a blocked drain with DIY methods, the risks often outweigh the rewards. From temporary fixes that don’t solve the underlying problem to the potential for causing further damage, DIY drain repairs can end up costing you more in the long run.

For a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution, it’s always best to rely on professional drainage services. Contact Tank Environmental today to get expert help with your blocked drain and keep your home’s plumbing system in top condition.

By choosing professional services, you’re ensuring that your drains are properly maintained, preventing future problems, and avoiding costly repairs.