Reasons Why Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Might Not Take Care of Your Problem

Clogged drains are a frequent residential plumbing headache, prompting many to try do-it-yourself work for a quick patch. Even though DIY drain cleaning appears to be a budget-friendly and convenient way to go, it usually does not fix the underlying issue of the clog and can even result in additional problems later on. Discover the methods, disadvantages and advantages of various tips for unclogging to see why Expert plumbing service is the best way to go.

Reasons Some Homeowners Avoid DIY Drain Cleaning

Regardless of the ease and cost-effectiveness of DIY methods, they might not be the ideal choice for several reasons:

• Inconsistent Fixes: Do-it-yourself techniques often provide a temporary solution. They can clear just enough of the clog to restore flow briefly, but the underlying issue remains, leading to ongoing clogs and more headaches.
• Possibility of further damage: Haphazardly using plungers or manual augers may actually cause damage by scraping the inside of your pipes. An inexperienced hand can unintentionally cause more harm than good, leading to additional repair costs and hassle.
• Ineffectiveness: Do-it-yourself methods might unblock small clogs, but they don’t fix more significant problems like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. If you don’t have the proper equipment, it’s challenging to properly identify the exact source of the problem, let alone take care of it.
• Damage to the pipes: Commercially available chemical drain cleaners can harm your home’s plumbing. These cleaners often contain strong acids that damage pipes over time, especially if they’re in an older home or constructed from cast iron or zinc-coated pipes. Additionally, drain cleaning chemicals can be dangerous, leading to skin 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 clogged drains before calling in the pros. Here are some common approaches, providing different levels of success:

• Plunger: A conventional plunger is useful for minor blockages in sink drains and bathtubs. Making sure the sink or tub has a small amount of water gives a good seal over the pipe opening. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should dislodge the obstruction, as long as it’s near enough to the opening.
• Using Hot Water: Pouring warm (but not scalding) water down the drain can dissolve greasy blockages or clear out soap residue. However, this method is more useful at preventing clogs than resolving a clog that’s already formed.
• Drain Cleaning Chemicals: A lot of folks actually start with this approach, but it’s the least reliable and most likely to create more issues than they resolve.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This popular DIY unclogging technique entails pouring a ½ cup of bicarbonate of soda followed by a ½ cup of vinegar through the line. Once the mixture finishes fizzing, the last step is to flush the entire line with warm but not scalding hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This device mechanically disrupts or pushes them out through the pipe. It’s the potential option most likely to resolve the clog entirely. Still, if it is too far for the snake to reach, it won’t work.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If a DIY attempt to unclog a clogged drain proves fruitless, opt for professional drain cleaning services. Here’s how you’ll benefit when you decide this is the best option:

• Preventative maintenance: Routine drain cleaning is the best way to ensure free-flowing drains. Look into this preventive measure to lower the chance of plumbing emergencies and big repair bills later on.
• Longer-lasting solutions: Licensed service from local plumbers delivers a more thorough resolution, addressing the underlying problem of the clog so you can get rid of clogs once and for all.
• Safe, Expert work: Qualified plumbers have the skills and experience to address complex clogs securely and effectively. They employ the proper equipment and tools to avoid causing further issues with your plumbing.

Expert Drain Cleaning Services

Professional plumbers utilize various high-tech tools to ensure comprehensive and long-term resolutions to your plumbing concerns:

• Professional-grade plumbing auger: When small manual augers prove ineffective, professionals break out the big guns. Electric-powered snakes have longer cables able to reach far into your pipes, cutting apart anything in their path.
• Using a video camera: Professionals typically begin inspections with a sewer camera inspection. This means placing a small camera into the pipes to correctly locate the precise source of the blockage, guaranteeing focused and efficient repairs.
• Hydro jetter: The most high-tech drain cleaning technique uses pressurized jets of water to blast away clogs and scrub the inner walls of your piping, wiping out all debris and gunk. Even roots invading pipes are vulnerable to this professional specialty.

Ask About Licensed Drain Cleaning Service

While DIY drain cleaning methods are a temporary solution for minor blockages, vast or major blockages demand professional services. For risk-free, efficient and permanent solutions, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We offer trustworthy drain cleaning services supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not fully satisfied with our service, we’ll get back to work. Contact us today to guarantee your pipes are in good hands.