Why DIY Drain Cleaning Might Not Take Care of the Problem

Stopped-up drains are a common household issue, causing many to take a stab at do-it-yourself solutions for a quick patch. Even though do-it-yourself unclogging appears to be a budget-friendly and convenient way to go, it often fails to address the underlying issue of the clog and can even lead to the clog expanding down the line. Discover the approaches, disadvantages and advantages of other drain clearing techniques to see why calling a licensed plumber is a better option.

Drawbacks of DIY Drain Cleaning

Regardless of the accessibility and affordability of do-it-yourself methods, they might not be the best approach for different reasons:

• Short-Term Solutions: Do-it-yourself techniques typically give only a short-term fix. They can clear enough of the blockage to allow water to drain for a while, but the main problem is still there, leading to repeat problems and an ongoing battle.
• Possibility of more damage: Incorrectly using plungers and plumbing snakes can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by scratching the plumbing’s interior walls. An inexperienced hand can easily make matters worse, leading to additional repair costs and trouble.
• Lack of effectiveness: DIY solutions might clear smaller clogs, but they don’t fix more severe examples like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Lacking proper gear, it’s more difficult to properly identify the exact source of the problem, let alone fix it.
• Damaged pipes: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can damage your plumbing system. These products often include corrosive ingredients that can weaken your plumbing lines over time, more so if they’re older or made of materials like old, cast iron piping or zinc-coated pipes. Besides, chemical cleaners can be dangerous, resulting in chemical irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention the negative environmental impact from flushing them into the sewer.

Popular DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques

It makes sense to test out DIY projects to remove clogs from stopped-up drains before getting a plumber. You’re probably familiar with some typical methods, offering varying degrees of effectiveness:

• Plunger: A conventional plunger is effective for small clogs in sink drains and toilets. Making sure the sink or tub has a small amount of water creates a tight seal over the drain. Then, applying force should break up the obstruction, as long as it’s near enough to the incoming pressure.
• Hot Water: Pouring heated (but not scalding) water down the drain can break down some of the greasy blockages or clear out dried soap. At the same time, this approach is better at stopping blockages than resolving current clogs.
• Chemical Drain Cleaners: Many people actually try this method first, but it’s the least successful and most likely to cause damage.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This popular do-it-yourself drain cleaner entails placing a ½ cup of baking soda then adding one-half cup of vinegar into the clogged pipe. Once the mixture stops bubbling, the last step is to flush the pipe with warm but not scalding hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This device physically breaks up or pulls out clogs. It’s the potential option most able to help clear the clog out. Still, if the clog is too far for the flexible cable to get to, it won’t be effective.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If your do-it-yourself adventure to fix a blocked pipe proves fruitless, choose professional drain cleaning services. Here’s why it’s worth it when you make the call:

• Preventive maintenance: Routine drain cleaning is the ideal approach for ensuring free-flowing drains. Look into this preventive service to lower the chance of problems and costly repairs down the line.
• Solutions that last: Expert drain cleaning service delivers a more complete resolution, addressing the main issue of the blockage so you can get rid of clogs once and for all.
• Safe work from local Experts: Qualified plumbers have the skills and training to address tough blockages safely and effectively. They use the best techniques and tools to avoid causing further harm to the pipes.

Local Expert Drain Cleaning Techniques

Licensed Experts employ various high-tech equipment to offer comprehensive and long-term results to your plumbing concerns:

• Professional-grade plumbing auger: When basic plumbing snakes don’t work, plumbers turn to the heavy-duty tools. Electric-powered snakes have longer cables that go deep into your pipes, breaking up anything in their path.
• Using a video camera: Professionals typically begin plumbing inspections with a sewer camera inspection. This includes inserting a miniature camera into the pipes to correctly find the precise source of the blockage, making sure they can provide targeted and efficient repairs.
• Hydro jetter: The most high-tech option employs high-pressure water to force out blockages and clean the inside of your pipes, wiping out all buildup and gunk. Even roots blocking the line are easily cut up by this professional specialty.

Arrange for Expert Drain Cleaning

Even though DIY drain cleaning methods are a temporary solution for small clogs, more serious or more significant issues call for Expert help. For risk-free, effective and permanent solutions, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We deliver reliable drain cleaning services supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not entirely satisfied with our service, we’ll fix it. Contact us today to make sure your drains are in good hands.