Why Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Might Not Take Care of Your Problem
Stopped-up drains are a frequent household nuisance, prompting many to make an attempt at DIY solutions for a quick fix. Even though do-it-yourself unclogging appears to be an affordable and straightforward choice, it usually does not fix the main source of the clog and can even result in more damage later on. Discover the techniques, downsides and perks of different drain cleaning options to see why calling a licensed plumber is the superior choice.
Drawbacks of DIY Drain Cleaning
Despite the convenience and cost-effectiveness of do-it-yourself methods, they might not be the ideal choice for a few reasons:
- Inconsistent Results: Do-it-yourself techniques usually only offer a temporary solution. They can remove part of the clog to allow water to drain for a while, but the root cause is still there, leading to recurring issues and annoyance.
- Possibility of additional damage: Improperly using plungers and drain augers can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by gouging the inside of your pipes. An inexperienced hand can quickly create bigger problems, leading to higher bills and hassle.
- Lack of effectiveness: Going the DIY route might unblock smaller clogs, but they don’t resolve 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 fix it.
- Damaged pipes: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can ironically damage your plumbing system. These products often use corrosive ingredients that can weaken your plumbing lines over time, especially if they’re in an older home or constructed from iron piping or galvanized iron. Additionally, chemical cleaners can be hazardous to your health, leading to skin irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention environmental pollution from having to dump them down the sink.
Standard DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques
It’s perfectly reasonable to try do-it-yourself methods to remove clogs from blocked pipes before getting a plumber. You’re probably familiar with some conventional techniques, giving varying degrees of effectiveness:
- Plunger: A sink plunger is effective for small clogs in sinks and bath drains. Filling the fixture with a bit of water ensures a tight seal over the drainage. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should dislodge the obstruction, as long as it’s not too far from the opening.
- Using Hot Water: Running hot (but not scalding) water into the clogged pipes can melt a little of the oil-based clogs or wash away soap residue. That said, this approach is better at stopping blockages than fixing a clog that’s already formed.
- Drain Cleaning Chemicals: A lot of folks actually use a chemical cleaner first, but it’s the least effective and most prone to cause damage.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: This well-known DIY drain cleaner involves placing one-half cup of bicarbonate of soda and then adding one-half cup of common vinegar solution into the clogged pipe. After the baking soda stops bubbling and hissing, the last step is to wash out the drain with hot but not scalding hot water.
- Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This option mechanically disrupts or pushes them out through the pipe. It’s the do-it-yourself approach most likely to clear out the clogged drain. However, if the clog is too far for the snake to get to, it won’t do any good.
Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning
If an attempt at DIY to clear a blocked pipe proves fruitless, go with professional drain cleaning services. Here’s how you’ll benefit when you make the call:
- Preventive maintenance: Scheduled maintenance like pipe cleaning is the key to clog-free pipes for as long as possible. Look into this routine upkĶeep schedule to lower the risk of unexpected clogs and costly repairs later on.
- Longer-lasting solutions: Expert drain cleaning service provides a more complete solution, fixing the main issue of the blockage so you can get rid of clogs for good.
- Expertise and safety: Licensed Experts have the know-how and experience to handle stubborn clogs in your home plumbing safely and efficiently. They use the right tools and tools to minimize the risk of further harm to the pipes.
Professional Drain Cleaning Techniques
Licensed Experts employ various advanced tools to offer comprehensive and lasting resolutions to your plumbing concerns:
- Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When basic plumbing snakes prove ineffective, plumbers break out the more serious equipment. Motorized augers have extended reach and longer cables able to reach far into your sewer line, breaking up anything in their path.
- Digital camera inspections: Plumbers typically begin plumbing inspections with a video pipe inspection. This includes placing a tiny camera into the drainage lines to accurately identify the precise source of the clog, making sure they can provide precise and lasting repairs.
- Hydro jetting: The most high-tech drain cleaning technique employs high-pressure water to blast away blockages and clear the inside of your pipes, wiping out all debris and gunk. Even intrusive tree roots are vulnerable to this commercial-grade solution.
Arrange for Expert Drain Cleaning
Even though do-it-yourself drain cleaning techniques are a quick fix for small clogs, deeper or major blockages require Expert help. For secure, efficient and long-lasting results, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We deliver dependable drain cleaning services supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. In case you’re not completely happy with our job, we’ll get back to work. Contact us today to guarantee your plumbing is in capable hands.