Why DIY Drain Cleaning May Not Take Care of the Problem

Clogged drains are a common household nuisance, leading many to attempt do-it-yourself solutions for a quick patch. While DIY drain cleaning seems like a cost-effective and convenient option, it often fails to address the root cause of the clog and can even lead to more damage down the line. Discover the methods, downsides and benefits of different drain cleaning options to understand why professional service is the superior choice.

Drawbacks of DIY Drain Cleaning

Despite the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of DIY methods, they might not be the best approach for different reasons:

• Short-Lived Fixes: DIY methods typically only offer a temporary solution. They might clear enough of the blockage to restore flow briefly, but the root cause remains, leading to recurring issues and frustration.
• Possibility of more damage: Improperly using plungers or plumbing snakes may actually cause damage by scratching the pipe’s interior. An inexperienced hand can easily cause more harm than good, leading to additional repair costs and hassle.
• Ineffectiveness: DIY solutions might clear minor blockages, but they can’t address more serious issues like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. Without proper equipment, it’s challenging to fully diagnose the underlying problem, let alone take care of it.
• Damaged pipes: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can harm your plumbing system. These products often contain corrosive ingredients that damage pipes over time, especially if they’re older or made of materials like cast iron or zinc-coated pipes. Besides, drain cleaning chemicals can be hazardous to your health, causing burns or toxic fumes, not to mention environmental pollution from pouring them down the drain.

Standard Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s perfectly reasonable to attempt DIY methods to clear clogged drains before calling in the pros. Here are some common techniques, offering varying degrees of effectiveness:

• Plunger: A conventional plunger is effective for small clogs in sinks and bathtubs. Filling the fixture with an inch of water ensures a good seal over the drain. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should dislodge the blockage, as long as it’s located close enough to the drain.
• Hot Water: Pouring hot (but not boiling) water down the drain can melt a little of the greasy blockages or clear out soap scum. However, this method is better at preventing clogs than resolving existing ones.
• Chemical Drain Cleaners: Most homeowners actually try this method first, but it’s the least effective and most likely to cause damage.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This popular do-it-yourself drain cleaner involves pouring one-half cup of baking soda followed by one-half cup of vinegar down the drain. When the mix stops bubbling, the last step is to flush the drain with hot but not boiling hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This tool physically breaks up or pulls out clogs. It’s the DIY method most likely to resolve the clog entirely. Even so, if it is too far for the flexible cable to reach, it won’t do any good.

Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning

If a DIY attempt to clear a clogged drain proves fruitless, choose professional drain cleaning services. Here’s how you’ll benefit when you do:

• Routine maintenance: Routine drain cleaning is the key to free-flowing drains. Consider this preventive service to reduce the possibility of unexpected clogs and costly repairs down the line.
• The longest-lasting solutions: Professional drain cleaning provides a more thorough solution, addressing the root cause of the blockage so you can put drainage problems behind you once and for all.
• Expertise and safety: Professional plumbers have the knowledge and tools to handle complex clogs safely and effectively. They use the right tools and tools to avoid causing further damage to your plumbing system.

Expert Drain Cleaning Techniques

Professional plumbers employ various advanced techniques to ensure thorough and lasting solutions to your drain problems:

• Professional-grade plumbing auger: When small manual augers prove ineffective, plumbers break out the big guns. Motorized augers have longer cables able to reach far into your sewer line, breaking up the clog.
• Using a video camera: Professionals often start service calls with a sewer camera inspection. This involves inserting a tiny camera into the pipes to accurately identify the location and cause of the blockage, ensuring targeted and effective repairs.
• Hydro jetter: The most advanced drain cleaning technique uses high-pressure water to blast away clogs and clean the inside of your pipes, removing all buildup and gunk. Even intrusive tree roots are vulnerable to this professional specialty.

Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning

While DIY drain cleaning methods are a quick fix for small clogs, deeper or more significant issues call for professional services. For safe, effective and long-lasting results, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We offer reliable drain cleaning services backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not completely happy with our work, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to ensure your drains are in capable hands.