Clogged Drain Cleaning

A clogged sewer line can turn into a disaster before you know it. Because of the high damage potential if your line was to rupture, it’s important to keep an eye out for any early warning signs that could point to an issue. Things to look out for include:

• Water Backing Up - If you notice that water isn’t draining out of your sink, shower or toilet, it’s likely you’ve got a clog somewhere down the line. If it’s happening with more than one of those, it’s probably your main line.

• Unfortunate Smells - Are disturbing aromas starting to proliferate through your home? If household waste is getting caught in your drain, it’s gonna cause a stink.

• Swampy Yard - A backup in the line can cause sewage to leak into your yard, turning your beautiful green grass into a smelly marsh.

Honestly, this question depends on a lot of factors - how many people live in your home, what kind of waste is getting flushed into your system, the age of your plumbing, etc. But generally speaking, having your drain cleaned once every two years should be enough to keep things running smoothly, prevent backups and protect your pipes from breaking.

We recommend having a visual/camera-aided inspection of your drains and pipes at least once a year. This will allow you to stay on top of their condition, get minor issues corrected before they become a big problem and let you know if you’re at the point where you need drain cleaning services or a major plumbing replacement.

Chemical drain cleaners can pose safety risks and may not always be the best solution for unclogging drains. They contain harsh chemicals that can damage pipes, especially older or fragile ones, and harm the environment when flushed into the sewage system. Moreover, if not used properly, they can cause skin and eye irritation or release harmful fumes. It's generally safer and more effective to use alternative methods such as a plunger, plumbing snake, or natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar for minor clogs. If unsure, it's best to consult a professional plumber.

Drains become clogged due to various factors:

1. Accumulation of Debris: Hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate over time, obstructing the drain.
2. Mineral Buildup: Hard water can cause mineral deposits to accumulate inside pipes, restricting water flow.
3. Foreign Objects: Objects like jewelry, toys, toiletries, and sanitary products accidentally flushed or washed down drains can cause blockages.
4. Tree Roots: Tree roots seeking moisture can infiltrate and block sewer lines.
5. Collapsed Pipes: Older or damaged pipes can collapse, obstructing the flow of water.
6. Improper Disposal: Pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down drains can lead to clogs as they solidify and accumulate.

Regular maintenance and proper disposal practices help prevent drain clogs.

You should consider calling a plumber for a clogged drain in the following situations:

1. Persistent Clogs: If you've tried DIY methods but the drain remains clogged, it may indicate a more severe blockage that requires professional attention.
2. Multiple Clogged Drains: If multiple drains in your home are clogged simultaneously, it could indicate a deeper issue within your plumbing system.
3. Foul Odors or Gurgling Sounds: Unpleasant odors or gurgling noises coming from drains may indicate a blockage or sewer line issue that requires professional assessment.
4. Slow Drainage: If water drains slowly or not at all despite attempts to clear the clog, it may be due to a more significant obstruction that a plumber can address.
5. Presence of Sewage Backups: Sewage backups pose health hazards and require immediate attention from a plumber to prevent further damage and contamination.

In such cases, calling a plumber ensures that the clog is properly diagnosed and resolved, preventing potential damage and restoring proper drainage in your home.