Blocked sinks

 A clogged sink is an inconvenience that many homeowners have faced or will face at some point. A clogged sink can cause inconvenience and potential damage if not addressed promptly. While some minor problems can be solved with simple do-it-yourself methods, there are cases where a professional plumber needs to be called in.

Understand the severity of the blockage

Depending on the cause, some sink clogging problems may be more severe or stubborn than others. Distinguishing between a minor blockage and a more serious one can help you decide whether it is better to do-it-yourself or call in a professional.

Here are some factors that can help you decide:

Persistent blockage: if you have already tried common do-it-yourself methods, such as plunging or using chemical drain cleaners, without success, it is a sign that the blockage may be more serious. Professional plumbers have the necessary tools and expertise to effectively solve the most stubborn blockages.

Unpleasant odours: Persistent unpleasant odours from the sink suggest a deeper problem within the pipes. This could indicate a blockage that requires professional intervention to identify and eliminate the source of the odour.

Slow drainage: Although slow draining may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can be a precursor to a more significant obstruction. If your sink drains slowly despite your best efforts, it is time to consult a professional plumber to avoid a complete blockage.

Signs of a more serious plumbing problem

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are some more obvious signs that the sink obstruction is serious. These include:

Multiple blocked drains: If you are experiencing blockages in multiple drains throughout your home, this could indicate a more extensive plumbing problem. A professional plumber can conduct a thorough inspection to identify the root cause and solve it completely.

Water backing up: A serious problem is water backing up in other fixtures, such as the bathtub or other sinks, when using the sink. This indicates a blockage in the main sewer pipe, which requires immediate professional intervention to prevent further damage.

If do-it-yourself attempts have failed

Another clear sign that it is time to call in a professional to repair the blocked sink is if do-it-yourself methods have not worked. Before calling a plumber, you can try:

Grouting and drain cleaning: Although grouting and snaking are effective for minor blockages, if these DIY methods do not provide a solution, there may be a more stubborn blockage that requires professional intervention. Plumbers have access to advanced tools such as water jets to clear more difficult clogs.

Drain cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to pipes and the environment and do not always work for every type of clog. However, you can try these products or a more environmentally friendly, pipe-friendly mixture of baking soda and vinegar. If you have used one of these drain cleaners without success, it is time to consult a plumber who can solve the problem without causing damage to the plumbing.

Call the Emergency Plumber in Newcastle. We are 24 hours available.