When it comes to certain tasks around the house there are many DIY solutions you can take. From fixing a squeaky door to replacing smashed light, these common household chores are safe and have no risk if you accidentally get something wrong. However, it can be easy to overestimate your skills and try to take on larger problems which do require professionals to fix properly. Nowhere is this more clear than with a blocked sewer drain. If you have a blocked sewer drain you should always call a plumber to come and fix it, here are three reasons why:
The Dangers Of Plumbing Rods
Plumbing rods are often used to dislodge blockages and in the hands of an expert, they are very capable tools. When used by an amateur, plumbing rods can actually make the problem worse. That is because they can easily come free and unravel if not used correctly, leaving large sections of the plumbing rods stuck in the very blocked sewer drain you are trying to fix. It is also possible to scratch the inside of the pipe if you are not careful, leading to breaches that tree roots and dirt can get into and cause even more blockages.
Tree Root Infestation
If the problem with your sewer is a tree root that has cracked the sides of your plumbing then no matter what you do you will not be able to fix it on your own. Tree root removal from a drain requires specialist equipment, expert analysis and a lot of time to properly plan out. If you try to do this on your own you are just as likely to cause further damage to the interior of the pipe, perhaps letting more than just roots in. It is also easy to get sick when dealing with tepid wastewater in your sewer for extended periods of time, especially if mould and other bacteria are growing down there, which is why professionals wear safety equipment.
Mistaken Identity
Perhaps the most common way amateur at-home plumbers make their plumbing worse is by wrongly assuming one section of your home's plumbing is the problem. For example, if your sink isn't draining you might spend ages tinkering with it to get rid of any blockages only to find out the problem is much further down the line. Sometimes this work you do on the sink to 'fix it' (in this example) damages it, meaning now you have two problems instead of just one.
Consider hiring a professional if you notice a blocked sewer drain in your house.