Encountering a clogged drain in the home isn’t unusual. Every day, the pipes swallow everything from hair to food to debris, all of which can collect over time to create blockages. While homeowners can attempt drain cleaning on their own, they may make some common mistakes. Here are three you should avoid.

What You Shouldn’t Do for Drain Cleaning

1. Use Potent Chemicals

Over-the-counter drain cleaning products tout fast-acting chemicals that eat through the clog. The problem is their strength. Many of these solutions are so potent that they damage the pipes while clearing away the blockage, which can even lead to corroded pipes and leaks. Also, these products don’t often work with a single pour; you might need to use two full bottles to see a difference.

2. Insert Long Objects

You may think to try to loosen the clog with a coat hanger or a stick, but it’s not wise to insert anything in the pipe. Without proper visibility, you may push the blockage deeper. In more severe cases, the pipe could break or a joint could loosen. It’s best to have a septic maintenance professional take a look—they can perform camera inspections and use proper tools like snakes and augers to safely tackle the blockage.

3. Dismantle the Pipes

While the appearance of the pipes below your sink may not be particularly daunting, it’s not as easy as it looks to dismantle the system and remove the clog. This can backfire if you have trouble cleaning the pipes properly while protecting the integrity of the plumbing at the same time, or if you reassemble the system incorrectly.

Why deal with a stubborn clogged drain on your own? Homeowners throughout Kona, HI, trust in the professionals at Bob’s Sweetwater Pumping Service. For over 20 years, the family-owned and -operated team has provided prompt drain cleaning services, handling even the most stubborn blockages with their state-of-the-art equipment and camera inspections. The pumping contractors also offer septic maintenance and wastewater removal. Visit their website to find out why locals in Kamuela and Waimea turn to them first, or give them a call at (808) 885-7159 to schedule an appointment.