A clogged drain can sometimes have an easy solution: a few targeted thrusts with a plunger or a few ounces of a homemade cleaning solution and the problem is resolved. However, when those methods don't work, cease the DIY-methods and call a plumber for professional drain cleaning. Below are some signs that the issue is serious enough you may wind up doing more harm than good.

How to Know if You Require Professional Drain Cleaning

1. Standing Water

Despite all your efforts, you still have standing water in the sink. Typically, a localized clog is easy to remove by traditional methods, but if those have not worked, the problem may lay deeper in the system or not be capable of being broken up, necessitating the services of a plumber.

2. Backflow

Sometimes, pipes can get so clogged that the water and waste have no choice but to come back up the drain. For instance, you might notice water bubbling up out of one side of the double kitchen sink, indicating a clog in the pipe beyond where the two drains join. However, it is not always that straightforward. Sink water may backflow through your bathtub drain or basement floor drains. This type of blockage is likely inaccessible to you and requires professional drain cleaning.

3. Unpleasant Odors

When operating properly, the drains should have very little smell. However, if you notice an unpleasant odor coming from a particular drain—such as garbage or rotting food—there is likely a blockage in the plumbing system where waste has become stuck and started to decay.

4. Low Water Pressure

Although most blockages occur within exit pipes, occasionally they affect your inbound pipes as well. If this happens, you will notice the water pressure out of one or more of your faucets is very low. This type of clog usually occurs due to hard water scale build-up.

For expert drain cleaning in Lincoln, NE, contact Holmes Sewer & Drain, the area's leading plumbing contractor. They have been serving businesses and households in and around Lancaster County for more than 30 years and offer dependable, affordable service. Call (402) 432-6312 to schedule a visit or go to their website to submit an information request.