Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. While a simple blockage in your sink or shower can often be fixed with a plunger or DIY methods, some clogs require the expertise of a professional drain cleaning service. Professional plumbers have the tools, experience, and knowledge to efficiently assess, remove, and prevent clogs from causing long-term damage to your plumbing system. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the typical process of professional drain cleaning and the various methods used to clear blockages and ensure your drains are running smoothly.

Clog Assessment

The first step in any professional drain cleaning service is to assess the clog. A professional plumber will inspect your drains to determine the severity and location of the blockage. This assessment helps the plumber understand whether the issue is confined to a single drain or if it’s part of a larger plumbing problem, such as a clogged sewer line. The plumber may ask about the symptoms you’ve noticed, such as slow drainage or foul odors, and will inspect the affected drain for visible issues.

What Is A Video Drain Inspection?

One of the most advanced tools in a plumber’s arsenal is a video drain inspection. This technique involves inserting a small camera attached to a flexible cable into your pipes. The camera provides real-time footage of the inside of your plumbing system, allowing the plumber to locate the exact location of the clog or any other issues, such as cracks, root intrusions, or buildup. A video drain inspection is highly effective for identifying hard-to-reach clogs and providing a clear picture of your pipes’ overall condition. It’s especially useful for dealing with recurring clogs or when there’s a suspicion of deeper, more complicated blockages.

Clog Removal

Once the assessment is complete and the clog is identified, the plumber will proceed with removing the blockage. Depending on the nature of the clog, the plumber will use a variety of tools and techniques to clear the drain and restore the flow of water. It’s important to note that the process of clog removal can vary depending on the size and type of the blockage. Minor blockages may be cleared quickly, while more severe obstructions may require more advanced methods.

Drain Snaking

Drain snaking, also known as drain augering, is one of the most common methods used to remove clogs. A plumber uses a long, flexible tool called a drain snake, which is inserted into the drain and rotated to break up the clog. The snake’s auger-like head scrapes away debris, grease, and other materials blocking the drain. This method is particularly effective for blockages caused by hair, soap scum, or food waste in bathroom and kitchen drains. Drain snaking is often used for localized blockages and is a cost-effective solution.

Drain Auger

Similar to a drain snake, a drain auger is another tool used to break up tough clogs. The difference between a snake and an auger lies in their design and the type of clogs they can tackle. A drain auger is typically more powerful and is used for more severe blockages, especially those deeper in the plumbing system. It works by rotating a coil through the drain and cutting through the obstruction. Plumbers often use drain augers in cases where snaking isn’t enough to remove the clog completely.

Hydro-Jetting

For stubborn and hard-to-remove blockages, hydro-jetting is an incredibly effective solution. Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to clear out debris and buildup in your pipes. A professional plumber inserts a specialized nozzle into your drain, which blasts powerful streams of water at high velocity, breaking up grease, sludge, tree roots, and other blockages. This method not only removes the clog but also thoroughly cleans the interior of the pipes, preventing future blockages. Hydro-jetting is especially useful for long-term drain maintenance, and it’s a safe and environmentally friendly method of cleaning drains.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are sometimes used by professionals to dissolve grease and organic material buildup in drains. These products typically contain harsh chemicals, such as lye or sulfuric acid, that break down the clog over time. While chemical drain cleaners can be effective for minor blockages, they are not suitable for severe or deep clogs. In fact, overuse of chemical cleaners can damage pipes, especially older ones, and may not fully clear more stubborn blockages. For this reason, professionals prefer to use hydro-jetting or snaking as safer, more efficient methods of clearing drains.

Home Remedy Drain Cleaners and DIY Tools

Before calling in a professional, many homeowners try to clear drains using home remedy cleaners or DIY tools. These include natural solutions like a baking soda and vinegar mixture, or using a plunger or drain snake. While these methods can be effective for minor clogs, they often don’t address more serious issues within the plumbing system, such as deep blockages, root intrusion, or damaged pipes. Professionals are trained to handle these more complex problems and provide lasting solutions.

While DIY methods can clear the surface-level problem, they might not tackle the root cause of frequent clogs. Professional drain cleaning services are far more effective at ensuring long-term drain health and preventing recurring issues.

A professional drain cleaning service offers a comprehensive approach to resolving drain blockages and keeping your plumbing system in optimal condition. From clog assessment and video drain inspections to advanced techniques like hydro-jetting and drain snaking, professionals have the right tools to handle any plumbing issue efficiently. While DIY solutions may work for minor clogs, professional services ensure that your drains remain clear and your plumbing system stays healthy for the long term.

If you’re experiencing slow drains, foul odors, or recurring clogs, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. Their expertise and advanced tools will provide the best solution for your drainage problems saving you time, money, and hassle in the long run.