Clogged drains can be quite bothersome, but having the appropriate tools can assist you in addressing minor blockages and preserving your plumbing system. Understanding what items to keep accessible can greatly impact your ability to maintain clear drains. At ABA Plumbing & Gas, we are here to provide you with essential tools for DIY drain unblocking in Adelaide and to guide you on when it might be necessary to seek professional help.

Essential Tools Every DIY Plumber in Adelaide Must Have

1. Plunger

A plunger is a fundamental yet powerful tool that every household should have as it effectively clears sinks, toilets, and shower drains by creating a vacuum that helps dislodge minor obstructions. If you encounter a slow drain or a small clog simply using a few strong pumps may solve the problem and give you free flowing drains.

2. Drain Snake or Auger

For clogs that are too stubborn for a plunger a drain snake or an auger is the next best remedy as this plumbing tool can easily reach deep into pipes to grasp or break up blockages. A drain snake is one of the most effective drain clearing devices for kitchen and bathroom sinks. All one needs to do is simply insert the snake, twist it, and pull it back out to remove whatever clog or build-up is causing the blockage.

3. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)

While it may not be directly used in the removal of clogs, a plumber’s tape is important in ensuring that no leaks occur right after clearing the drain. Every time that pipes are disconnected, wrapping the threads with a plumber’s tape ensures a tight seal, since it prevents leaks and protects your plumbing.

4. Bucket and Rubber Gloves

These basic items may seem straightforward but they are incredibly important. A bucket catches all the dirty water that may spill out with debris while rubber gloves will protect your hands from dirt and other irritating elements.

5. Baking Soda and Vinegar

This natural combination works well against minor blockages. For this, all you have to do is simply pour a cup of baking soda down the drain then add a cup of vinegar and let the mixture start fizzing for about 15-20 minutes. After that, rinse the drains with hot water to remove mild blockages caused by grease or soap buildup.

6. Wet/Dry Vacuum

A wet/dry vacuum may be the golden ticket for unclogging your drain. Place it on liquid mode, slide the hose over the drain to create a seal, and crank the suction to maximum. This might pull the blockages out that are near enough to the surface of the drain.

7. Cable Auger

The cable auger is perfect for blockages in bigger pipes that won’t go away. Compared to a regular snake, this can reach farther down the drain for blockages that are so much harder to get. This is great for outdoor drains, like those leading to garages or driveways.

8. Drain Cleaning Brush

The drain cleaning brush has been designed to pull out hair and particles jammed inside bathroom sinks or shower drains. Ideal for routine cleaning to avoid blockages, the cleaning brush is long enough in length to reach narrow pipes, which can hardly be accessed with ordinary tools.

9. Pipe Wrench

Pipe Wrench: A pipe wrench is indispensable in the case of any DIYer who has to deal with particularly unyielding blockages. It comes in handy when loosening and tightening of joints is needed in case one has to dissemble the pipes under the sink. Just be very careful not to over-tighten, for that can damage the pipes.

10. Protective Eyewear

Not top of mind, perhaps, but protective eyewear is a necessity operating around drains. Splashback can occur at any time, but especially when using chemicals or forceful tools such as wet/dry vacuums. Keep your peepers out of harms’ way.

When to Call Drain Plumber Adelaide

If you need a professional plumber for drain issues that are recurrent or if you are unable to find a solution to your problem then don’t hesitate to contact the experts at ABA Plumbing & Gas for professional assistance. We’re here to help you keep your plumbing system running smoothly and efficiently, so you can enjoy peace of mind in your home.