Efficient drain cleaning is crucial to maintaining a healthy plumbing system. Experienced professionals use various methods and techniques to tackle a clogged drain. We will list down the different types of drain cleaning to help you understand the options available for addressing drain issues.
Some Necessary Preparations
Before performing any drain cleaning, many professionals may use video inspection technology. They use it to assess the extent and nature of the clogged drain or blockage first.
For major issues, a video camera inspection can disclose the real cause of the blockage. It makes the clearing operation more effective.
A small camera goes into the drain to provide a real-time view of the inside of the pipes. This helps identify the exact location and cause of the clog, allowing for a more targeted and effective solution. This is most applicable for sewer pipes and other inaccessible plumbing.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
One common approach to drain cleaning is the use of chemical drain cleaners. These products are readily available in stores and are often the first choice for homeowners dealing with minor clogs.
Chemical drain cleaners work by dissolving grease, hair, soap scum, and other organic materials causing blockages in the pipes. While they can be effective for small clogs, they may not address more severe issues. Your local drain cleaning company will not recommend them as they can be harsh on the plumbing system.
Chemical cleaners can corrode and damage your pipes. It can worsen the issue, cause leaks, and make the inner plumbing surfaces weaker. This can lead to damaged or broken pipes.
Bio-Enzymatic Cleaners
Bio-enzymatic cleaners are an eco-friendly and natural alternative to chemical drain cleaners. They contain beneficial bacteria and enzymes that break down organic waste and clog over time. These products are also useful for regular maintenance to prevent clogs or as a mild solution for minor blockages.
Bio-enzyme cleaners may not be as fast and instant as other methods. But they are effective against organic or substance-based clogs. They don’t emit any chemical fumes or cause damage to your house plumbing.
Plungers
Plunging is another traditional method for dealing with clogged drains. It is a simple and effective approach to clear minor blockages. A plunger creates a vacuum effect that dislodges the clog, allowing water to flow without effort through the pipes.
Plunging can resolve basic clogs. However, it may not be effective for more stubborn or deep-seated blockages. You may need other more professional methods if plungers won’t work
Drain Snakes
Drain snaking, also known as drain augering, is a method employed by professionals to address more stubborn clogs. A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a corkscrew-like tip. They go into the drain to break up and remove blockages.
This technique is particularly effective for deeper clogs that are unreachable with a plunger. You may have curved home plumbing or pipes below that are hard to clear. There may also be clogs that need a little extra force that drain snakes can reach out and claw out of the pipes.
Hydro Jet Water Streams
Hydro jetting is a powerful and efficient method used by drain cleaning companies to clear clogged drains. It involves the use of a high-pressure water jet to remove blockages, debris, and build-up from the inside of the pipes.
Hydro jetting is very effective in clearing clogs. It is also useful as a preventive maintenance tool to avoid future blockages and restore proper pipe flow. Plumbing companies may also use them for cleaning pipes as preparation for trenchless pipe repairs. All the cleared blockages and debris exit out into the sewers.
Different Conditions Require The Right Methods
These types of drain cleaning methods have their uses in different cases of pipe blockages. Some of these causes of pipe blockages are preventable. Proper practices and disposal of waste down the drains are still important.
Still, some other causes of drain blockages are more difficult to detect unless you do regular monitoring. And not all homeowners have time for that. This is when the more professional methods become the best options for clearing out more stubborn clogs.
It’s essential to consult with drain cleaning services to determine the most suitable approach for your specific drain issues. In that case, call the specialists at The Pipe Doctor Plumbing and Drain. Since 1984 we have been the local go-to experts when it comes to plumbing issues. And our quality work speaks for itself.
