Reasons Why DIY Clog Removal Might Not Take Care of Your Problem
Stopped-up drains are a frequent household problem, leading many to attempt do-it-yourself fixes for a quick fix. Although DIY drain cleaning may seem like a cost-effective and straightforward option, it usually does not solve the underlying issue of the clog and can even result in more damage in the future. Learn about the approaches, drawbacks and perks of various tips for unclogging to see why Expert plumbing service is the superior choice.
Downsides of DIY Drain Cleaning
Regardless of the convenience and fewer costs of attempts to clear the clog on your own, they aren’t always the most effective solution for several reasons:
- Patchy Results: Do-it-yourself techniques often give only a quick, but not quality fix. They might clear just enough of the clog to get things moving temporarily, but the underlying issue is still there, leading to recurring issues and annoyance.
- Possibility of further damage: Haphazardly using plungers or drain augers might ironically harm the pipes by damaging the pipe’s interior. An untrained user can quickly create bigger problems, leading to additional repair costs and hassle.
- Lack of effectiveness: Do-it-yourself methods could unblock small clogs, but they don’t fix more severe examples like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. If you don’t have the proper equipment, it’s harder to fully diagnose the root cause, let alone take care of it.
- Damage to the pipes: Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can harm your pipes. These products often have strong acids that wear away at the plumbing, more so if they’re in an older home or made of materials like iron piping or zinc-coated pipes. Besides, chemical cleaners can be dangerous, leading to skin irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention harm to the planet from flushing them into the sewer.
Common Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Techniques
It makes sense to try DIY methods to unclog blocked pipes before calling in the pros. You’re probably familiar with some typical options, offering different levels of success:
- Plunger: A standard plunger is effective for minor blockages in sink drains and bathtubs. Filling the fixture with an inch of water ensures a good seal over the drainage. Then, applying force should loosen the clog, as long as it’s not too far from the drain.
- Hot Water: Pouring warm (but not TOO hot) water down the drain can break down some of the oil-based clogs or wash away dried soap. At the same time, this option is more effective at stopping blockages than unclogging current clogs.
- Drain Cleaning Chemicals: Most homeowners actually try this method first, but it’s the least reliable and most prone to create more issues than they resolve.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda: This well-known DIY pipe-clearing method consists of pouring one-half cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of common vinegar solution through the line. Once the mixture stops bubbling and hissing, the last step is to flush the drain with warm but not boiling hot water.
- Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This device manually clears or pushes them out through the pipe. It’s the do-it-yourself approach 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 reach, it won’t do any good.
Reasons Homeowners Choose Professional Drain Cleaning
If a DIY attempt to unclog a clogged drain falls short, opt for professional drain cleaning services. Here’s what you’ll gain when you do:
- Routine maintenance: Regular maintenance is the key to clog-free pipes for as long as possible. Look into this preventive service to cut down on the risk of problems and high repair costs down the line.
- The longest-lasting solutions: Professional drain cleaning delivers a more comprehensive solution, addressing the main issue of the obstruction so you can get rid of clogs permanently.
- Expertise and safety: Professional plumbers have the know-how and tools to handle complex clogs quickly and efficiently. They utilize the best techniques and tools to avoid causing further damage to your plumbing system.
Local Expert Drain Cleaning Services
Licensed Experts utilize various modern techniques to ensure thorough and lasting solutions to your clogged plumbing:
- Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When basic plumbing snakes prove ineffective, professionals turn to the big guns. Motorized augers have extended reach and longer cables designed to extend into your pipes, cutting apart the clog.
- Using a video camera: Experts often start plumbing inspections with a sewer camera inspection. This includes inserting a miniature camera into the pipes to correctly identify the location and cause of the clog, guaranteeing focused and efficient repairs.
- Hydro jetter: The most cutting-edge unclogging approach employs strong streams of pressurized water to wash out the deepest clogs and clear the inner walls of your piping, removing all buildup and residue. Even roots blocking the line are no match for this high-power technique.
Ask About Licensed Drain Cleaning Service
Even though self-cleaning approaches are a temporary solution for lesser obstructions, deeper or major blockages require professional services. For risk-free, 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. In case you’re not entirely satisfied with our work, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to make sure your pipes are in good hands.