The Insider's Guide to Clearing Drains: Insights from Expert Technicians

Posted by Richmond Emergency Plumber on 23 Mar 2024

A functioning plumbing system is essential for creating a comfortable and healthy living space. For everything from flushing the toilet to taking a shower a well-maintained plumbing system ensures that routines go smoothly.

Clogged drains are a common issue that could disrupt your daily routine and cause serious issues if they are not addressed promptly. This article will discuss the causes of clogged drains, the significance of hiring professional plumber and the various methods employed by professional plumbers to tackle clogged drains.

Techniques Used by Professional Plumbers

Drain Snakes

A drain snake is an instrument that plumbers use to clear drains. It consists of a long flexible cable with sharp tips that are inserted in the drainage. The cable is then rotated, allowing it to grab onto and remove any clogs that block drainage. There are several types of drain snakes, including electronic, handheld or closet-augers. The advantages of using a drain snake are that it’s cost-effective environmentally friendly, efficient, and eco-friendly.

Hydro-jetting

Hydro-jetting is a method employed by professional plumbers to unclog drains with high-pressure water streams. It sprays water through an nozzle and hose, allowing it to remove any buildup, including grease or hair, that is clogging the drain. The advantages of hydro-jetting is that it is environmentally friendly efficient and efficient.

Camera Inspection

Camera inspection refers to a process used by professional plumbers to look inside drains and pipes with a camera that is attached to a flexible, long cable. The camera broadcasts live video footage to a monitor which allows the plumber to identify any issues like cracks or blockages, that are causing the clog. The benefits of using camera inspections are that it’s non-invasive, efficient, and accurate.

Do-It-Yourself Methods

While do-it-yourself methods for unclogging drains can be tempting however, they’re rarely efficient, and may create more serious problems. Some common do-it-yourself methods include the use of chemical drain cleaners and plungers. However, chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and cause more harm than they are worth. Plungers on the other side, can cause clogs to move further down the pipe which can lead to more severe issues. It is crucial to know when to call a professional plumber.

Employing a Professional Plumber

When it comes to dealing with clogged drains, it is crucial to employ a licensed and insured professional plumber. When choosing an plumber, factors to consider include their expertise and availability as well as their reputation. During a plumber visit the plumber will assess the situation and determine the best course of action to address the obstruction. They will also offer a cost estimate before beginning any work.

Conclusion

The maintenance of a functional plumbing system is essential for maintaining a healthy and pleasant living environment. Clogged drains are a common issue that could disrupt your daily routine and cause larger problems if they’re not addressed promptly. Hiring an experienced plumber is the most effective method to tackle blocked drains. Techniques like drain snakes, hydro-jetting and camera inspections are highly effective and efficient techniques employed by plumbers who are professionals.

Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I employ chemical drain cleaners in order to clean my drains?

While chemical drain cleaners can appear tempting, the fact is that they can cause more harm than good by damaging pipes and causing more serious issues.

How often do I need to have my drains inspected by an plumber?

It is recommended to have your drains inspected by a professional plumber every between one and two years.

What can I do if there is an obstruction in my drain in the middle of night?

If you have a clogged drain during the night, it is advised to contact a skilled plumber who can provide 24 hours of emergency assistance.

Does hiring an experienced plumber will cost me more money than doing it by myself?

Although employing a professional plumber might seem expensive in the beginning, it can actually save you money over the long term through avoiding the more major problems that could result from the DIY approach.

What should I do if the drain is still clogging after the plumber is able to clear it?

If the drain is still clogging no matter how many times the plumber has cleared it, it may indicate a more significant issue that is causing the issue, like corrosion or damage to the pipe. In this case it is recommended to have a professional plumber assess the situation and decide the best course of action.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, maintaining the plumbing system in good working order is crucial to maintain the health and comfort of your living environment. While clogged drains are an issue that is common, it is important to stay clear of DIY solutions and instead hire a licensed and insured professional plumber to resolve the issue. Professional plumbers employ a variety of techniques such as drain snakes, hydro-jetting, and camera inspections, which are effective and efficient techniques to tackle blocked drains. Regular inspections by a professional plumber can help to avoid more serious problems from occurring. Remember, when plumbing problems arise, it is always better to be safe instead of sorry.

Tags: Drains, Plumbing, Tools Categories: Blocked Drains, Plumber