Household drains clog for many reasons, from soap scum to irresponsible garbage disposal use. Drain cleaning is the process of removing clogs to prevent larger, more costly issues such as flooding and sewer backups. Here is what you need to know about drain cleaning, including why it is best to schedule professional service from your local plumbers.

A Guide to Drain Cleaning

Liquid Drain Cleaners Are Not Recommended

Liquid chemical drain cleaners are available at most retail, grocery, or convenience stores. They are advertised as dissolving agents that break down tough clogs to keep your drains clear, although they rarely meet that goal. Additionally, chemical drain cleaners damage household pipes; they can corrode or cause further damage to metal pipes and soften PVC pipes. Chemical cleaners can crack your porcelain toilet bowl or burn your skin upon contact. They also harm the environment when they enter local waterways and create toxic fumes, which hurts indoor air quality. 

Drain Snakes Can Damage Your Pipes

Drain snakes may seem like an eco- and drain-friendly alternative to commercial drain cleaners, but they too can harm your pipes. Plumbing snakes, also known as augers, can scratch metal pipes, causing them to rust and weaken. They may scratch porcelain sinks and toilets, cause injuries if they are not handled correctly, and worsen the existing clog by adding pieces of corroded pipe or pushing it farther down your drain.

Professional Plumbers Clear Drains the Right Way

Professional drain cleaning is the most effective way to rid your pipes of clogs. Experienced plumbers know how to locate the source of the clog and remove it by unscrewing pipe sections or using a drain snake properly. If your clog is affecting multiple or all of the drains in your home, your plumber will clean the main sewer line to prevent backups and other costly problems. You should not use any of the water fixtures in your home if your clog is in the main sewer line since it can cause flooding. Main sewer line clogs are alleviated by your local plumbers through the toilet, drain vent on your roof, or an outdoor cleanout.

A-1 Budget Plumbing provides the thorough drain cleaning services you need to keep your system free of debris. The Kailua, HI-based 24/7 plumbing company has served Oahu since 1986. Call (808) 526-3747 for affordable same-day service or visit the website for more information. Like the local plumbers on Facebook for the latest tips and reviews.