Reasons Why Do-It-Yourself Clog Removal Might Not Take Care of the Problem

Blocked pipes are a frequent household issue, causing many to attempt do-it-yourself fixes for a quick fix. Although DIY drain cleaning appears to be a cost-effective and straightforward choice, it usually does not fix the main source of the clog and can even lead to additional problems down the line. Learn about the techniques, downsides and benefits of other drain clearing techniques to see why professional service is a better option.

Reasons Some Homeowners Avoid DIY Drain Cleaning

Regardless of the ease and cost-effectiveness of do-it-yourself methods, they aren’t always the ideal choice for different reasons:

• Inconsistent Results: DIY methods typically give only a quick, but not quality fix. They can clear just enough of the clog to allow water to drain for a while, but the underlying issue is more stubborn, leading to repeat problems and an ongoing battle.
• Accidentally causing more damage: Haphazardly using plungers or plumbing snakes may actually cause damage by damaging the pipe’s interior. An untrained user can quickly cause more harm than good, leading to higher bills and hassle.
• Ineffectiveness: Going the DIY route might remove small clogs, but they can’t fix more significant problems like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Lacking proper gear, it’s harder to pinpoint the exact source of the problem, let alone resolve it.
• Damaged pipes: Commercially available chemical drain cleaners can ironically damage your home’s plumbing. These cleaners often include harsh chemicals that damage pipes over time, more so if they’re old or made of materials like cast iron or galvanized iron. Besides, 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.

Conventional DIY Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s understandable to test out DIY methods to remove clogs from clogged drains before getting a plumber. Here are some typical approaches, providing different levels of success:

• Plunger: A sink plunger is effective for small clogs in sink drains and bath drains. Filling the fixture with an inch of water creates a tight seal over the pipe opening. Then, applying force should dislodge the obstruction, as long as it’s located close enough to the drain.
• Hot Water: Running hot (but not scalding) water into the clogged pipes can break down some of the fatty buildups or clear out dried soap. However, this method is better at avoiding stoppages than unclogging existing ones.
• Chemical Drain Cleaners: Most homeowners actually use a chemical cleaner first, but it’s the least effective and most prone to actually cause harm to the pipes.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: This well-known DIY drain cleaner involves placing half a cup of sodium bicarbonate followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. After the baking soda stops bubbling and hissing, the last step is to flush the entire line with hot but not too hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This tool manually clears or pulls out clogs. It’s the potential option most likely to clear out the clogged drain. Still, if the clog is too deep for the flexible cable to reach, it won’t do any good.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If an attempt at DIY to clear a clogged drain falls short, choose professional drain cleaning services. Here’s why it’s worth it when you do:

• Preventive maintenance: Scheduled maintenance like pipe cleaning is the best way to ensure free-flowing drains. Think about this preventive measure to lower the chance of problems and costly repairs down the line.
• Long-lasting solutions: Licensed service from local plumbers provides a more thorough fix, addressing the underlying problem of the obstruction so you can put drainage problems behind you for good.
• Safe, Expert work: Licensed Experts have the skills and training to address complex clogs securely and efficiently. They employ the right tools and tools to stop further damage to your plumbing system.

Local Expert Drain Cleaning Techniques

Licensed Experts use various modern techniques to ensure comprehensive and long-term solutions to your plumbing concerns:

• Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When small manual augers fail to clear the clog out, Experts break out the heavy-duty tools. Electric-powered snakes have extra-long cables able to reach far into your drainage system, smashing through the clog.
• Digital camera inspections: Experts often start inspections with a drain camera. This involves placing a tiny camera into the pipes to correctly identify the exact spot and reason of the clog, ensuring targeted and efficient repairs.
• Hydro jetting: The most advanced option uses pressurized jets of water to wash out clogs and clear the inner walls of your piping, removing all debris and residue. Even roots invading pipes are easily cut up by this high-power technique.

Ask About Licensed Drain Cleaning Service

While do-it-yourself drain cleaning techniques are a temporary solution for lesser obstructions, vast or major blockages call for professional services. For safe, effective and longer-lasting solutions, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We deliver trustworthy drain cleaning services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Should you not be entirely satisfied with our job, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to ensure your plumbing is in capable hands.