When you have a drain clog in your home, what’s the easiest way to deal with it? If you’re like most people, your answer might be, “with store-bought liquid drain cleaner that I keep under the sink.”
This is a “quick fix” and we understand the temptation to use it. Buuuut, we have to urge against it. There are a lot of problems with these store-bought “solutions,” which we’re going to get into below. The fact of the matter is, if you have a drain clog then the best thing you can do is call in the professionals for a fix. It won’t be as “quick” but it will be effective. Read on to learn why this is the better option.
Chemical Cleaners Damage Pipes
First off, it’s important for you to know that chemical, store-bought, drain cleaning solutions are discouraged by any reputable plumber. We’re not opposed to do-it-yourself drain cleaning! If you have a superficial clog, by all means try using a plunger to relieve it. If you have a smelly drains then see if a combo of 1 part baking soda and 1 part vinegar will help the smell dissipate.
But if neither of these solutions do the trick, then the next step is to call us, not to reach for that bottle of store-bought cleaner under your sink. This is because the chemicals found in these cleaners are formulated with caustic materials. These materials do cut through some clogs, but they also eat away at the pipes themselves.
When Plungers Don’t Work
As we just mentioned above, you may want to try a plunger when you have a single drain clog. You’ll want to make sure you can use some force, get a really good seal, and try a few dozen times. What about when this doesn’t work, though?
The cause of the clog may be something that got firmly lodged in your drainpipe, and it can be further from the drain opening that a plunger can manage. Fortunately, our professionals know how to help.
You May Need Professional Drain Snaking
You’ll likely to be able to find a basic drain auger in your local hardware store. But even a lengthy snake and a handy homeowner might not be enough to resolve truly stubborn drain clogs. This is especially true if the clog is causing widespread backups in your plumbing system, or if they’re as deep as your sewer system.
Our professionals utilize professional augers that are motorized, and sometimes use hydro-jet devices too. These are drain snakes, but instead of a stationary auger on the end, they have omni-directional sprayer heads that help through cut through the worst of clogs, including something tough like tree roots that have infiltrated your sewer line.
If you have a drain clog, or multiple drain clogs, that seems stubborn, the best thing you can do for your plumbing system functionality and your family’s comfort is to give our team a call for help.
Contact DC Cheek Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for quality professional plumbing in Johns Creek, GA. “Fixed, At the Speed of Life!”
