Why DIY Drain Unclogging Might Not Take Care of Your Problem

Blocked pipes are a common residential plumbing problem, prompting many to take a stab at DIY fixes for a quick fix. Even though cleaning out the drains on your own seems like a budget-friendly and convenient way to go, it typically does not address the main source of the clog and can even lead to more damage in the future. Learn about the methods, drawbacks and advantages of various tips for unclogging to see why Expert plumbing service is a better option.

Reasons Some Homeowners Avoid DIY Drain Cleaning

Even with the ease and fewer costs of do-it-yourself methods, they may not be the most effective solution for different reasons:

• Short-Lived Results: DIY methods often give only a quick, but not quality fix. They might unblock part of the clog to get things moving temporarily, but the root cause is more stubborn, leading to repeat problems and more headaches.
• Accidentally causing additional damage: Improperly using plungers or drain augers may actually cause damage by scratching the inside of your pipes. An inexperienced hand can easily cause more harm than good, leading to additional repair costs and headaches.
• Ineffectiveness: DIY solutions could remove smaller clogs, but they don’t fix more significant problems like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. If you don’t have the proper tools, it’s challenging to pinpoint the root cause, let alone resolve it.
• Damage to the pipes: Commercially available chemical drain cleaners can harm your home’s plumbing. These cleaners often include corrosive ingredients that damage pipes over time, particularly if they’re in an older home or composed of old, cast iron piping or zinc-coated pipes. Besides, chemical cleaners can be hazardous to your health, resulting in chemical irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention the negative environmental impact from flushing them into the sewer.

Standard Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Techniques

It makes sense to attempt DIY once or twice to clear stopped-up drains before getting a plumber. Here are some conventional techniques, providing varying degrees of effectiveness:

• Plunger: A conventional plunger is useful for minor blockages in sink drains and toilets. Adding to the fixture an inch of water creates a secure fit over the drain. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should break up the blockage, as long as it’s not too far from the incoming pressure.
• Using Hot Water: Running warm (but not boiling) water through the line can melt a little of the greasy blockages or wash away soap residue. That said, this option is more useful at stopping blockages than fixing a clog that’s already formed.
• Chemical Drain Cleaners: Most homeowners actually try this method first, but it’s the least reliable and most prone to actually cause harm to the pipes.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: This common do-it-yourself pipe-clearing method consists of adding half a cup of bicarbonate of soda followed by one-half cup of vinegar into the clogged pipe. After the baking soda stops bubbling, the last step is to flush the drain with warm but not scalding hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This tool mechanically disrupts or pushes them out through the pipe. It’s the potential option most able to resolve the clog entirely. Even so, if the clog is too far into the plumbing for the snake to be able to to get to, it won’t work.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

If your do-it-yourself adventure to clear a blocked pipe falls short, go with professional drain cleaning services. Here’s how you’ll benefit when you make the call:

• Preventative maintenance: Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure smooth, efficient plumbing. Think about this preventive service to lower the chance of unexpected clogs and big repair bills later on.
• Longer-lasting solutions: Expert drain cleaning service offers a more thorough solution, rising to meet the root cause of the clog so you can put drainage problems behind you once and for all.
• Safe, Expert work: Professional plumbers have the knowledge and experience to tackle complex clogs safely and efficiently. They employ the proper equipment and tools to minimize the risk of further harm to the pipes.

Professional Drain Cleaning Techniques

Plumbing pros utilize various high-tech equipment to offer complete and lasting results to your plumbing concerns:

• Professional-grade plumbing auger: When small manual augers prove ineffective, Experts bring in the heavy-duty tools. Power augers have longer cables designed to extend into your pipes, smashing through anything in their path.
• Digital camera inspections: Professionals usually start their plumbing inspections with a drain camera. This involves placing a tiny camera into the drainage lines to accurately locate the location and cause of the clog, ensuring precise and lasting repairs.
• Hydro jetter: The most advanced option uses pressurized jets of water to force out blockages and clear the inner walls of your piping, eliminating all buildup and gunk. Even roots blocking the line are no match for this commercial-grade solution.

Request Expert Drain Cleaning

While do-it-yourself drain cleaning techniques are a quick fix for lesser obstructions, deeper or more significant issues call for Expert help. For safe, efficient and permanent solutions, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We provide trustworthy drain cleaning services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not fully satisfied with our work, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to make sure your pipes are in good hands.