Why DIY Drain Unclogging May Not Take Care of the Problem

Clogged drains are a frequent household headache, leading many to make an attempt at do-it-yourself work for a quick patch. While cleaning out the drains on your own seems like an affordable and easy choice, it usually does not fix the root cause of the clog and can even cause additional problems in the future. Discover the methods, drawbacks and benefits of other drain clearing techniques to understand why Expert plumbing service is the superior choice.

Drawbacks of DIY Drain Cleaning

Despite the convenience and affordability of do-it-yourself methods, they might not be the most effective solution for different reasons:

• Inconsistent Solutions: Do-it-yourself techniques usually provide a temporary solution. They may unblock enough of the blockage to get things moving temporarily, but the underlying issue is still there, leading to ongoing clogs and frustration.
• Potential for more damage: Haphazardly using plungers or manual augers can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by scraping the pipe’s interior. An inexperienced hand can unintentionally create bigger problems, leading to higher bills and trouble.
• Lack of effectiveness: Going the DIY route may clear smaller clogs, but they don’t address more severe examples like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Without proper tools, it’s challenging to fully diagnose the exact source of the problem, let alone resolve it.
• Damaged pipes: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can harm your home’s plumbing. These products often use harsh chemicals that can weaken your plumbing lines over time, especially if they’re older or made of materials like iron piping or galvanized iron. Additionally, chemical cleaners can be hazardous to your health, resulting in chemical irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention harm to the planet from pouring them down the drain.

Standard Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s perfectly reasonable to attempt DIY projects to remove clogs from stopped-up drains before getting a plumber. Here are some conventional approaches, providing varied results:

• Plunger: A sink plunger is effective for small clogs in sinks and toilets. Adding to the fixture a small amount of water gives a secure fit over the drainage. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should dislodge the obstruction, as long as it’s located close enough to the opening.
• Using Hot Water: Running warm (but not TOO hot) water down the drain can dissolve fatty buildups or clear out soap scum. That said, this option is more effective at avoiding stoppages than fixing a clog that’s already formed.
• Drain Cleaning Chemicals: Most homeowners actually use a chemical cleaner first, but it’s the least reliable and most known to cause damage.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This common do-it-yourself drain cleaner involves adding a ½ cup of baking soda then adding half a cup of common vinegar solution into the clogged pipe. When the mix finishes fizzing, the last step is to flush the pipe with hot but not boiling hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This option physically breaks up or pulls out clogs. It’s the potential option most likely to clear out the clogged drain. However, if the clog is too far for the snake to get to, it won’t work.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If your do-it-yourself adventure to unclog a blocked pipe fails, opt for professional drain cleaning services. Here’s what you’ll gain when you make the call:

• Preventive maintenance: Scheduled maintenance like pipe cleaning is the ideal approach for ensuring free-flowing drains. Consider this preventive measure to lower the risk of unexpected clogs and big repair bills down the line.
• Solutions that last: Professional drain cleaning provides a more comprehensive fix, addressing the root cause of the obstruction so you can get rid of clogs once and for all.
• Safe, Expert work: Qualified plumbers have the know-how and tools to address stubborn clogs in your home plumbing safely and efficiently. They use the right tools and tools to minimize the risk of further issues with your plumbing.

Expert Drain Cleaning Techniques

Licensed Experts use various advanced equipment to offer complete and lasting resolutions to your plumbing concerns:

• Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When small manual augers fail to clear the clog out, plumbers bring in the heavy-duty tools. Electric-powered snakes have longer cables able to reach far into your pipes, breaking up the clog.
• Digital camera inspections: Professionals typically begin service calls with a video pipe inspection. This involves inserting a miniature camera into the plumbing system to precisely locate the precise source of the clog, ensuring precise and efficient repairs.
• Hydro jetting: The most cutting-edge drain cleaning technique uses pressurized jets of water to blast away blockages and scrub the interior of your plumbing, eliminating all buildup and residue. Even intrusive tree roots are no match for this professional specialty.

Request Licensed Drain Cleaning Service

While do-it-yourself drain cleaning techniques are a quick fix for minor blockages, vast or major blockages require Expert help. For safe, thorough and long-lasting results, count on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We provide reliable drain cleaning services backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not entirely satisfied with our job, we’ll get back to work. Contact us today to ensure your drains are in good hands.