Reasons Why DIY Clog Removal May Not Take Care of the Issue

Clogged drains are a frequent residential plumbing problem, causing many to try DIY solutions for a quick fix. Even though DIY drain cleaning appears to be an affordable and easy way to go, it often fails to fix the main source of the clog and can even result in more damage later on. Learn about the approaches, drawbacks and advantages of other drain clearing techniques to see why calling a licensed plumber is a better option.

Downsides of DIY Drain Cleaning

Even with the accessibility and fewer costs of DIY methods, they might not be the most effective solution for a few reasons:

• Patchy Solutions: Do-it-yourself techniques usually only offer a quick, but not quality fix. They can clear enough of the blockage to allow water to drain for a while, but the underlying issue remains, leading to recurring issues and frustration.
• Accidentally causing more damage: Haphazardly using plungers or drain augers may actually cause damage by scratching the pipe’s interior. An uninsured novice can unintentionally create bigger problems, leading to higher bills and hassle.
• Lack of effectiveness: Do-it-yourself methods might unblock minor blockages, but they can’t address more significant problems like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Without proper tools, it’s challenging to properly identify the underlying problem, let alone fix it.
• Damaged pipes: Over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners can ironically damage your home’s plumbing. These products often include strong acids that can weaken your plumbing lines over time, especially if they’re in an older home or constructed from old, cast iron piping or zinc-coated pipes. Additionally, chemical cleaners can be hazardous to your health, resulting in chemical irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention environmental pollution from pouring them down the drain.

Conventional DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s understandable to try DIY once or twice to unclog stopped-up drains before calling in the pros. You’re probably familiar with some common techniques, giving different levels of success:

• Plunger: A standard plunger is useful for small clogs in sink drains and bathtubs. Making sure the sink or tub has a small amount of water creates a good seal over the drainage. Then, applying force should loosen the clog, as long as it’s located close enough to the opening.
• Using Hot Water: Running hot (but not TOO hot) water into the clogged pipes can dissolve greasy blockages or rinse off soap residue. That said, this method is more useful at preventing clogs than unclogging a clog that’s already formed.
• Drain Cleaning Chemicals: Many people actually start with this approach, but it’s the least effective and most likely to cause damage.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: This popular do-it-yourself pipe-clearing method entails placing one-half cup of baking soda and then adding half a cup of common vinegar solution through the line. Once the mixture finishes fizzing, the last step is to rinse the entire line with hot but not too hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This device mechanically disrupts or pulls out clogs. It’s the do-it-yourself approach most able to help clear the clog out. Even so, if it is too deep for the snake to be able to to get to, it won’t be effective.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If a DIY attempt to clear a clogged drain falls short, go with professional drain cleaning services. Here’s what you’ll gain when you decide this is the best option:

• Preventive maintenance: Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure free-flowing drains. Look into this routine upkƒ∂eep schedule to cut down on the chance of plumbing emergencies and big repair bills down the line.
• Long-lasting solutions: Professional drain cleaning delivers a more thorough solution, addressing the main issue of the obstruction so you can get rid of clogs once and for all.
• Safe work from local Experts: Licensed Experts have the knowledge and training to tackle stubborn clogs in your home plumbing securely and efficiently. They utilize the best techniques and tools to avoid causing further damage to your plumbing system.

Expert Drain Cleaning Services

Plumbing pros employ various advanced tools to provide thorough and lasting solutions to your plumbing concerns:

• Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When small manual augers fail to clear the clog out, Experts break out the big guns. Electric-powered snakes have extra-long cables designed to extend into your sewer line, smashing through the clog.
• Using a video camera: Experts usually start their plumbing inspections with a drain camera. This includes placing a miniature camera into the drainage lines to precisely find the precise source of the blockage, making sure they can provide precise and efficient repairs.
• Hydro jetting: The most cutting-edge unclogging approach uses high-pressure water to force out the deepest clogs and scrub the inside of your pipes, eliminating all buildup and gunk. Even intrusive tree roots are easily cut up by this high-power technique.

Schedule Licensed Drain Cleaning Service

Even though DIY drain cleaning methods are a quick fix for lesser obstructions, vast or larger problems require professional services. For risk-free, thorough 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 guarantee your pipes are in capable hands.