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

Clogged drains are a frequent household nuisance, causing many to attempt do-it-yourself work for a quick patch. While cleaning out the drains on your own seems like a budget-friendly and easy way to go, it typically does not address the root cause of the clog and can even result in additional problems down the line. Discover the techniques, drawbacks and perks of different drain cleaning options to see why professional service is a better option.

Drawbacks of DIY Drain Cleaning

Even with the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of do-it-yourself methods, they may not be the most effective solution for a few reasons:

• Short-Term Solutions: Do-it-yourself techniques typically only offer a quick, but not quality fix. They can clear enough of the blockage to get things moving temporarily, but the main problem remains, leading to recurring issues and frustration.
• Accidentally causing additional damage: Haphazardly using plungers and manual augers can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by scraping the pipe’s interior. An inexperienced hand can quickly make matters worse, leading to extra expenses and hassle.
• Lack of effectiveness: DIY solutions might clear small clogs, but they don’t address more severe examples like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Without proper equipment, it’s harder to fully diagnose the underlying problem, let alone take care of it.
• Damaging the plumbing: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes. These products often have strong acids that damage pipes over time, especially if they’re in an older home or constructed from cast iron or zinc-coated pipes. Besides, drain cleaning chemicals can be toxic, causing burns or toxic fumes, not to mention the negative environmental impact from having to dump them down the sink.

Conventional DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s understandable to try do-it-yourself once or twice to clear stopped-up drains before seeking professional service. You’re probably familiar with some typical methods, giving varied results:

• Plunger: A standard plunger is useful for small clogs in sink drains and toilets. Adding to the fixture an inch of water ensures a tight seal over the drain. Then, using strong pressure should loosen the obstruction, as long as it’s near enough to the opening.
• Hot Water: Pouring heated (but not scalding) water down the drain can break down some of the greasy blockages or clear out soap residue. That said, this method is more useful at avoiding stoppages than unclogging existing ones.
• Drain Cleaning Chemicals: Most homeowners actually start with this approach, but it’s the least reliable and most likely to actually cause harm to the pipes.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This popular DIY drain cleaner entails placing a ½ cup of baking soda and then adding half a cup of common vinegar solution down the drain. When the mix finishes fizzing, the last step is to rinse the pipe with hot but not scalding hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This option manually clears or removes blockages. It’s the potential option most able to resolve the clog entirely. Still, if it is too far for the snake to be able to to reach, it won’t be effective.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

If a DIY attempt to clear a clogged drain doesn’t work, choose professional drain cleaning services. Here’s what you’ll gain when you do:

• Preventive maintenance: Routine drain cleaning is the key to clog-free pipes for as long as possible. Think about this preventive measure to lower the risk of unexpected clogs and high repair costs down the line.
• Longer-lasting solutions: Expert drain cleaning service delivers a more complete resolution, addressing the underlying problem of the clog so you can get rid of clogs for good.
• Expertise and safety: Licensed Experts have the know-how and experience to tackle complex clogs securely and effectively. They employ the best techniques and tools to minimize the risk of further issues with your plumbing.

Professional Drain Cleaning Techniques

Plumbing pros utilize various high-tech tools to provide comprehensive and long-term results to your drain problems:

• Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When basic plumbing snakes prove ineffective, Experts turn to the big guns. Electric-powered snakes have extended reach and longer cables designed to extend into your drainage system, smashing through the clog.
• Video camera inspections: Experts typically begin inspections with a video pipe inspection. This includes feeding a tiny camera into the pipes to precisely find the precise source of the clog, making sure they can provide focused and effective repairs.
• Hydro jetter: The most high-tech option employs strong streams of pressurized water to blast away clogs and clean the inside of your pipes, eliminating all debris and residue. Even roots invading pipes are no match for this commercial-grade solution.

Ask About Licensed Drain Cleaning Service

While self-cleaning approaches are a temporary solution for minor blockages, deeper or larger problems demand licensed assistance. For safe, effective and longer-lasting solutions, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We provide trustworthy drain cleaning services supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Should you not be completely happy with our service, we’ll fix it. Contact us today to make sure your drains are in capable hands.