Why DIY Drain Unclogging May Not Take Care of the Issue

Clogged drains are a typical home headache, causing many to try do-it-yourself fixes for a quick fix. Even though cleaning out the drains on your own seems like a budget-friendly and convenient option, it usually does not solve the root cause of the clog and can even result in additional problems down the line. Learn about the methods, downsides and advantages of different drain cleaning options to see why Expert plumbing service is the superior choice.

Popular Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s understandable to attempt DIY methods to remove clogs from stopped-up drains before calling in the pros. Here are some conventional approaches, giving varied results:

• Chemical Drain Cleaners: Most homeowners start with this approach, but it’s the least successful and most known to actually cause harm to the pipes.
• Hot Water: Running warm (but not TOO hot) water through the line can melt a little of the greasy blockages or rinse off soap scum. However, this approach is better at stopping blockages than fixing existing ones.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This well-known DIY drain cleaner entails pouring one-half cup of bicarbonate of soda and then adding a ½ cup of common vinegar solution through the line. Once the mixture stops bubbling, the last step is to wash out the drain with warm but not scalding hot water.
• Plunger: A sink plunger is effective for minor blockages in sink drains and bathtubs. Making sure the sink or tub has an inch of water creates a tight seal over the drainage. Then, applying force should break up the obstruction, as long as it’s near enough to the drain.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This option manually clears or pulls out clogs. It’s the do-it-yourself approach most likely to clear out the clogged drain. Even so, if the clog is too far into the plumbing for the snake to be able to to reach, it won’t do any good.

Reasons Some Homeowners Avoid DIY Drain Cleaning

Despite the accessibility and fewer costs of attempts to clear the clog on your own, they may not be the best approach for several reasons:

• Damage to the pipes: Store-bought drain cleaning chemicals can ironically damage your plumbing system. These cleaners often have harsh chemicals that can weaken your plumbing lines over time, more so if they’re in an older home or constructed from old cast iron piping or galvanized iron. Besides, drain cleaning chemicals can be dangerous, resulting in chemical irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention the negative environmental impact from flushing them into the sewer.
• Little benefit: Do-it-yourself methods could clear small clogs, but they can’t fix more severe examples like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Without proper gear, it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact source of the problem, let alone take care of it.
• Potential for more damage: Improperly using plungers or plumbing snakes may actually cause damage by scratching the inside of your pipes. An untrained user can unintentionally create bigger problems, leading to additional repair costs and headaches.
• Short-Term Results: Do-it-yourself techniques often provide a quick, but not quality fix. They can clear just enough of the clog to allow water to drain for a while, but the underlying issue is more stubborn, leading to ongoing clogs and frustration.

Local Expert Drain Cleaning Best Practices

Licensed Experts utilize various modern tools to offer thorough and lasting results to your drain problems:

• Video camera inspections: Experts typically begin plumbing inspections with a video pipe inspection. This means placing a small camera into the pipes to correctly locate the precise source of the clog, ensuring focused and lasting repairs.
• Professional-grade plumbing auger: When small manual augers don’t work, plumbers bring in the big guns. Motorized augers have extra-long cables that go deep into your pipes, smashing through the clog.
• Hydro jetting: The most advanced unclogging approach uses pressurized jets of water to force out blockages and clear the interior of your plumbing, eliminating all buildup and residue. Even roots blocking the line are no match for this professional specialty.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

If your do-it-yourself adventure to unclog a clogged drain fails, go with professional drain cleaning services. Here’s how you’ll benefit when you decide this is the best option:

• Safe, Expert work: Qualified plumbers have the know-how and training to handle complex clogs quickly and efficiently. They use the right tools and tools to prevent further harm to the pipes.
• The longest-lasting solutions: Expert drain cleaning service provides a more thorough fix, rising to meet the main issue of the blockage so you can move past drain issues for good.
• Preventative maintenance: Regular maintenance is the key to clog-free pipes for as long as possible. Look into this preventive measure to reduce the chance of problems and costly repairs in the future.

Arrange for Expert Drain Cleaning

Although self-cleaning approaches are a quick fix for small clogs, more serious or more significant issues call for licensed assistance. For risk-free, effective and long-lasting results, turn to Hays Cooling, Heating & Plumbing. We provide dependable drain cleaning services backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not fully satisfied with our job, we’ll fix it. Contact us today to ensure your drains are in Expert hands.