What is Drain Cleaning?
Drain cleaning is the process of clearing blockages in pipes that carry wastewater away from your home. This can be done by using a variety of methods, including:
- Plunging: A plunger is a simple tool that can be used to dislodge clogs caused by hair, soap scum, or other debris.
- Drain snakes (Snaking): Drain snakes are long, flexible tools that can be inserted into pipes to clear blockages.
- Hydro jetting: Hydro jetting is a high-pressure water treatment that can be used to clear even the most stubborn clogs.
Why Do I Need Drain Cleaning?
There are a number of reasons why you might need drain cleaning:
- Slow drains: If your drains are draining slowly, it's a sign that there may be a clog.
- Gurgling noises: Gurgling noises coming from your drains are another sign of a clog.
- Backups: If your drains are backing up, it's a sign that there is a serious clog that needs to be cleared.
- Unpleasant odors: If you're smelling unpleasant odors coming from your drains, it's a sign that there is a buildup of bacteria.
There are a number of things you can do to prevent drain clogs
- Avoid putting grease, oil, or fat down the drain. These substances can solidify and cause clogs.
- Don't flush feminine hygiene products or diapers down the toilet. These items can also cause clogs.
- Use a strainer in your sink and shower drains. This will help to catch hair and other debris before it can cause a clog.
- Have your drains cleaned regularly by a professional plumber. This will help to prevent clogs from forming in the first place.
Your Everyday Drain Clogging Issues
Kitchen Sink
Most clogs in the kitchen result from what you are putting down your garbage disposal. Properly dealing with kitchen waste keeps your pipes clear of debris and troublesome clogs. Before scheduling a service call, you may try to unclog your sink with a sink plunger to see if that will clear the problem.
Safety Tip: never plunge your sink if you have poured drain cleaner down the pipes because a splash may burn you.
Bathroom Tubs And Sinks
Shower Drains
Many times we have people call about a sewer gas smell coming from their shower drain. This can be a result of a dry P-trap, a mild clog, or a bigger problem with your pipes. A dry trap occurs when the basin under your shower doesn’t have enough water in it to keep the sewer smells out.
Main Drains
Here are a few warning signs that your main drain may be clogged.
When you flush your toilet, water may start gurgling up into your tub or shower drain.
Another sign is that your shower drain or toilet may overflow with water when you use your washing machine.
Finally, toilet water may rise or bubble up when you run your bathroom sink. These signs should not be ignored.
