Why Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning May Not Take Care of the Problem

Clogged drains are a frequent household nuisance, prompting many to try do-it-yourself fixes for a quick fix. While DIY drain cleaning seems like an affordable and easy option, it often fails to fix the underlying issue of the clog and can even lead to the clog expanding in the future. Discover the techniques, disadvantages and benefits of various tips for unclogging to understand why Expert plumbing service is the best way to go.

Drawbacks of DIY Drain Cleaning

Regardless of the ease and fewer costs of DIY methods, they might not be the most effective solution for several reasons:

• Inconsistent Results: Do-it-yourself techniques typically give only a quick, but not quality fix. They may clear just enough of the clog to allow water to drain for a while, but the main problem persists, leading to ongoing clogs and an ongoing battle.
• Accidentially causing additional damage: Improperly using plungers or plumbing snakes can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by scratching the inside of your pipes. An inexperienced hand can quickly cause more harm than good, leading to extra expenses and hassle.
• Lack of effectiveness: Going the DIY route may unblock small clogs, but they can’t address more significant problems like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Lacking proper tools, it’s challenging to fully diagnose the root cause, let alone take care of it.
• Damaged pipes: Over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners can damage your plumbing system. These products often use corrosive ingredients that damage pipes over time, more so if they’re in an older home or composed of cast iron or zinc-coated pipes. Additionally, chemical cleaners can be toxic, leading to skin irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention harm to the planet from flushing them into the sewer.

Common DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s understandable to test out DIY once or twice to remove clogs from clogged drains before seeking professional service. You’re probably familiar with some typical approaches, giving different levels of success:

• Plunger: A sink plunger is helpful for a few simple clogs in sinks and bathtubs. Adding to the fixture an inch of water creates a tight seal over the drainage. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should dislodge the clog, as long as it’s not too far from the opening.
• Hot Water: Running warm (but not TOO hot) water into the clogged pipes can melt a little of the fatty buildups or clear out soap residue. But, this method is more useful at avoiding stoppages than resolving current clogs.
• Chemical Drain Cleaners: Many people actually use a chemical cleaner first, but it’s the least effective and most likely to actually cause harm to the pipes.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: This popular do-it-yourself unclogging technique involves placing a ½ cup of baking soda followed by one-half cup of vinegar down the drain. When the mix finishes fizzing, the last step is to wash out the drain with warm but not too hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This option mechanically disrupts or pushes them out through the pipe. It’s the potential option most likely to clear out the clogged drain. Still, if it is too far for the flexible cable to reach, it won’t work.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If an attempt at DIY to clear a clogged drain doesn’t work, opt for professional drain cleaning services. Here’s what you’ll gain when you decide this is the best option:

• Preventive maintenance: Scheduled maintenance like pipe cleaning is the key to free-flowing drains. Consider this preventive service to reduce the possibility of plumbing emergencies and big repair bills later on.
• Longer-lasting solutions: Licensed service from local plumbers delivers a more complete fix, addressing the root cause of the blockage so you can get rid of clogs for good.
• Expertise and safety: Professional plumbers have the skills and training to tackle tough blockages securely and effectively. They use the proper equipment and tools to minimize the risk of further damage to your plumbing system.

Professional Drain Cleaning Best Practices

Plumbing pros utilize various advanced techniques to provide thorough and long-term results to your drain problems:

• Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When small manual augers don’t work, Experts bring in the more serious equipment. Power augers have longer cables able to reach far into your drainage system, smashing through anything in their path.
• Video camera inspections: Experts often start plumbing inspections with a drain camera. This involves feeding a tiny camera into the pipes to accurately find the exact spot and reason of the clog, ensuring focused and effective repairs.
• Hydro jetting: The most high-tech option employs strong streams of pressurized water to blast away clogs and clean the interior of your plumbing, wiping out all debris and gunk. Even roots blocking the line are easily cut up by this professional specialty.

Request Licensed Drain Cleaning Service

Even though DIY drain cleaning methods are a temporary solution for lesser obstructions, deeper or larger problems call for professional services. For risk-free, efficient and long-lasting results, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We deliver trustworthy drain cleaning services backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Should you not be fully satisfied with our service, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to make sure your pipes are in good hands.