Reasons Why DIY Drain Cleaning May Not Take Care of the Problem

Stopped-up drains are a frequent home issue, causing many to take a stab at do-it-yourself work for a quick fix. Although cleaning out the drains on your own seems like an affordable and easy way to go, it usually does not fix the underlying issue of the clog and can even lead to the clog expanding down the line. Learn about the techniques, drawbacks and benefits of different drain cleaning options to see why professional service is a better option.

Reasons Some Homeowners Avoid DIY Drain Cleaning

Despite the ease and cost-effectiveness of DIY methods, they might not be the best approach for a few reasons:

• Short-Lived Solutions: DIY methods often only offer a short-term fix. They might clear just enough of the clog to allow water to drain for a while, but the main problem is still there, leading to recurring issues and frustration.
• Possibility of additional damage: Incorrectly using plungers or manual augers can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by scraping the pipe’s interior. An untrained user can easily cause more harm than good, leading to higher bills and frustration.
• Low impact: DIY solutions could unblock smaller clogs, but they don’t resolve more severe examples like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Without proper gear, it’s more difficult to fully diagnose the exact source of the problem, let alone fix it.
• Damage to the pipes: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can harm your home’s plumbing. These products often have harsh chemicals that damage pipes over time, particularly if they’re older or constructed from iron piping or zinc-coated pipes. Moreover, drain cleaning chemicals can be toxic, causing burns or toxic fumes, not to mention harm to the planet from pouring them down the drain.

Popular DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques

It makes sense to attempt DIY methods to clear blocked pipes before calling in the pros. You’re probably familiar with some conventional approaches, providing varied results:

• Plunger: A sink plunger is effective for a few simple clogs in sink drains and toilets. Adding to the fixture a small amount of water gives a tight seal over the pipe opening. Then, using strong pressure should dislodge the obstruction, as long as it’s not too far from the opening.
• Hot Water: Pouring warm (but not TOO hot) water into the clogged pipes can dissolve greasy blockages or wash away soap scum. At the same time, this method is more effective at stopping blockages than unclogging current clogs.
• Drain Cleaning Chemicals: A lot of folks actually start with this approach, but it’s the least successful and most prone to actually cause harm to the pipes.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: This common DIY unclogging technique entails adding a ½ cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Once the mixture stops bubbling and hissing, the last step is to flush the pipe with warm but not scalding hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This tool mechanically disrupts or removes blockages. It’s the potential option most likely to help clear the clog out. Still, if the clog is too deep for the snake to get to, it won’t be effective.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

If a DIY attempt to fix a clogged drain falls short, choose professional drain cleaning services. Here’s why it’s worth it when you make the call:

• Preventive maintenance: Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure smooth, efficient plumbing. Look into this routine upkeep schedule to reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies and high repair costs down the line.
• Longer-lasting solutions: Professional drain cleaning offers a more thorough fix, rising to meet the main issue of the clog so you can move past drain issues for good.
• Safe work from local Experts: Qualified plumbers have the know-how and training to handle tough blockages securely and thoroughly. They utilize the proper equipment and tools to avoid causing further harm to the pipes.

Local Expert Drain Cleaning Techniques

Licensed Experts employ various advanced techniques to provide thorough and lasting solutions to your clogged plumbing:

• Professional-grade plumbing auger: When basic plumbing snakes prove ineffective, plumbers break out the more serious equipment. Power augers have extra-long cables able to reach far into your pipes, breaking up anything in their path.
• Digital camera inspections: Plumbers often start inspections with a drain camera. This involves inserting a small camera into the plumbing system to precisely find the exact spot and reason of the clog, ensuring precise and lasting repairs.
• Hydro jetter: The most high-tech option uses pressurized jets of water to force out clogs and clear the inside of your pipes, removing all debris and residue. Even intrusive tree roots are vulnerable to this professional specialty.

Arrange for Professional Drain Cleaning

Although self-cleaning approaches are a quick fix for lesser obstructions, vast or larger problems demand licensed assistance. For risk-free, effective and long-lasting results, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We offer trustworthy drain cleaning services backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. In case you’re not fully satisfied with our work, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to guarantee your plumbing is in capable hands.