Reasons Why DIY Drain Cleaning Might Not Take Care of the Issue

Blocked pipes are a frequent household headache, leading many to make an attempt at do-it-yourself fixes for a quick fix. Even though DIY drain cleaning seems like a budget-friendly and straightforward way to go, it usually does not solve the root cause of the clog and can even lead to the clog expanding down the line. Discover the techniques, drawbacks and advantages of different drain cleaning options to understand why Expert plumbing service is the superior choice.

Downsides of DIY Drain Cleaning

Even with the convenience and affordability of DIY methods, they might not be the ideal choice for several reasons:

• Inconsistent Results: DIY methods typically provide a short-term fix. They can unblock part of the clog to get things moving temporarily, but the root cause is still there, leading to recurring issues and an ongoing battle.
• Accidentally causing more damage: Haphazardly using plungers and plumbing snakes can have the opposite effect and lead to issues by scratching the pipe’s interior. An untrained user can quickly make matters worse, leading to additional repair costs and trouble.
• Lack of effectiveness: Do-it-yourself methods might clear minor blockages, but they don’t resolve more serious issues like root intrusion or a collapsed sewer line. If you don’t have the proper gear, it’s more difficult to properly identify the exact source of the problem, let alone fix it.
• Damage to the pipes: Commercially available chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes. These cleaners often include corrosive ingredients that wear away at the plumbing, especially if they’re in an older home or constructed from cast iron or zinc-coated pipes. Additionally, chemical cleaners can be hazardous to your health, leading to skin irritation or toxic fumes, not to mention environmental pollution from pouring them down the drain.

Standard Do-It-Yourself Drain Cleaning Techniques

It’s understandable to try do-it-yourself once or twice to unclog blocked pipes before calling in the pros. You may remember some common approaches, offering varied results:

• Plunger: A standard plunger is effective for minor blockages in sinks and bath drains. Adding to the fixture a small amount of water ensures a good seal over the drainage. Then, plunging with strong, consistent force should loosen the blockage, as long as it’s not too far from the incoming pressure.
• Hot Water: Pouring hot (but not scalding) water into the clogged pipes can break down some of the fatty buildups or clear out soap scum. At the same time, this option is more effective at avoiding stoppages than fixing existing ones.
• Drain Cleaning Chemicals: Many people actually try this method first, but it’s the least effective and most known to cause damage.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: This common do-it-yourself drain cleaner involves pouring one-half cup of bicarbonate of soda followed by a ½ cup of vinegar through the line. When the mix stops bubbling and hissing, the last step is to rinse the drain with warm but not too hot water.
• Hand-Crank Plumbing Snake or Auger: This device mechanically disrupts or removes blockages. It’s the DIY method most able to help clear the clog out. Even so, if the clog is too far into the plumbing for the snake to be able to to reach, it won’t be effective.

The Perks of Professional Drain Cleaning

If a DIY attempt to clear a blocked pipe falls short, choose professional drain cleaning services. Here’s what you’ll gain when you make the call:

• Preventive maintenance: Scheduled maintenance like pipe cleaning is the ideal approach for ensuring free-flowing drains. Consider this preventive measure to reduce the chance of unexpected clogs and high repair costs in the future.
• Longer-lasting solutions: Expert drain cleaning service offers a more thorough solution, addressing the underlying problem of the clog so you can move past drain issues for good.
• Expertise and safety: Licensed Experts have the skills and tools to tackle tough blockages quickly and efficiently. They employ the best techniques and tools to stop further damage to your plumbing system.

Expert Drain Cleaning Techniques

Licensed Experts utilize various high-tech techniques to ensure comprehensive and lasting results to your clogged plumbing:

• Heavy-duty plumbing auger: When basic plumbing snakes prove ineffective, plumbers break out the heavy-duty tools. Electric-powered snakes have extra-long cables that go deep into your drainage system, smashing through anything in their path.
• Digital camera inspections: Professionals usually start their service calls with a sewer camera inspection. This involves inserting a tiny camera into the drainage lines to correctly identify the precise source of the blockage, making sure they can provide precise and lasting repairs.
• Hydro jetting: The most advanced drain cleaning technique employs strong streams of pressurized water to wash out clogs and clean the inside of your pipes, wiping out all buildup and residue. Even roots invading pipes are easily cut up by this high-power technique.

Ask About Expert Drain Cleaning

Although self-cleaning approaches are a temporary solution for minor blockages, more serious or larger problems require Expert help. For risk-free, efficient and longer-lasting solutions, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We provide reliable drain cleaning services supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Should you not be completely happy with our job, we’ll make it right. Contact us today to ensure your drains are in good hands.