A Complete Guide to the Basics of Drain Cleaning

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Drain Cleaning

When it comes to plumbing, most of its inner workings are “out of sight, out of mind,” right? Unfortunately, the unsightly side of plumbing can too quickly become a serious problem that makes itself known in a big way. Preventive maintenance can do a world of good and professional drain cleaning can keep a sewer line clog from rearing its ugly head. Here are some things that homeowners need to know about the major methods of professional drain cleaning and indicators that a home might need it.

Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line or One That Needs Cleaning

Lots of waste goes down through a home’s sewer pipe every day. Understandably, sometimes things get stuck. A sewer line clog can mess up the drainage system for the whole house and cause nasty consequences. A dirty sewer line can begin to cause issues before it fully clogs, so some indicators show that professional attention is needed. If drains are slow, then that may indicate blockage. 

If there is a gurgling or bubbling noise as a sink or tub drains, this also indicates some buildup. If toilet clogs are happening more frequently, this means there is a buildup in the main sewer line. All of these issues can escalate to a full-blown sewage backup. Drain cleaning will help prevent this sort of emergency. Two main methods for professional drain cleaning are a drain snake and hydro jetting.

Drain Cleaning Method: Plumber’s Snake

The drain auger or drain snake is a versatile tool that can be used on almost any clog. It is very effective in removing and breaking up clogs. This tool can be manual (hand-cranked) or powered mechanically. A drain snake works because a spiraled head is on the end of a long flexible cable that can be fed down the drain pipe. The head rotates through the clog or grabs it and pulls it out.  The advantages of the drain snaking method are included below:

• Drain snakes are generally safe for pipes, causing no damage while they clean.
• They are readily available and easy to access.
• They clean out clogs very effectively as long as the clog is not beyond the reach of the cable.

Drain Cleaning Method: Hydro Jetting

The latest in professional drain cleaning methods is hydro jetting. It uses a high-pressure stream of water to clean out the sewer lines and break up the clogs. A rubber or silicone balloon with a nozzle is attached to the end of a hose. The balloon fills up with water and blocks off the pipe from backflow. Then, a jet of water sprays down the sewer line to break up the clog. The advantages of this particular method are listed below:

• Safe: Hydro jetting is safe and effective in breaking up clogs. Since it uses only water, there is no chance of damaging the pipe through chemical or physical means. Pipes that are sound are well served by this method.
• Effective for Cleaning and Clog Removal: While a drain snake is good at removing a clog, it is not as effective in cleaning buildup on the sides of the pipe. Hydro jetting, conversely, cleans the whole pipe, helping prevent further clogs and future buildup.

About Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC serves Albuquerque, NM, and the surrounding areas with excellent workmanship, 24/7 emergency services, and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Call today to schedule drain cleaning services for your home.

Contact Information:

Daniels Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC

8308 Washington St NE
Albuquerque, NM 87113
United States

Daniel Jaramillo
(505) 898-8860
https://www.danielshvacnm.com