A clogged sink or shower drain is a frustrating ordeal for homeowners. While your first thought may be to handle the problem on your own, many popular DIY cleaning methods can cause further harm to your plumbing system. Follow these do’s and don’ts for drain cleaning, so you won’t need to call a plumber for preventable issues.

Do:

Avoid running hot water.

Running hot water down your drain may break down the buildup in your pipes, but this is only a temporary solution. It can also damage pipes by melting the PVC material, leading to costlier repairs down the road. 

Hire a professional plumber.

Hiring a professional plumber is the most effective and safest way to clean the drains. They can accurately diagnose the source of the problem and repair it before it escalates into more serious damage. The underlying cause of a drain clog can be as simple as food buildup or as extensive as a sewer line backup. 

Don’t:

Use store-bought drain cleaner.

Acidic drain cleaners are short-term solutions that can cause long-term damage to your pipes. In addition to dissolving the buildup, a drain cleaner will eat away at pipe lining. It’s also unsafe to handle these products since they can cause chemical burns. 

Attempt to snake the pipes yourself.

Never attempt to snake the pipes on your own. Even the slightest mistake can cause the cable to get caught and cut into other components in your plumbing. A plumber has the experience and tools to perform this service without the risk of injury or damage. 

If you need a plumber’s help with drain cleaning in Seguin, TX, turn to the team at A-1 Tri-County Plumbing. For over 35 years, they have provided residential and commercial plumbing solutions, from repairs and installations to bathroom remodeling and water line replacements. Call (512) 353-8656 today to request a free estimate. You can also visit their website to learn more about their services.