Clogged drains are a common plumbing issue that most homeowners will encounter at some point. Picking the right approach for drain cleaning will not only clear the problem, but it will also protect your property from damage and further trouble. Below are five methods to try when you have a clogged pipe on your hands.

How to Clear a Drain

1. Plunger

One of the first steps for drain cleaning is using a plunger. When the clog is close to the surface and just needs a little push to get down the pipes, applying pressure from a plunger can do the trick. If after a few pushes the clog persists, the blockage may be further down and require a different approach.

2. Drain Snakes

A drain snake or auger is a long, flexible tool that can get deep into pipes to dislodge a persistent clog. There are different types, from hand cranks and corkscrews to motorized designs that professional plumbers use. Manual versions can get relatively deep and pulverize a problem area, but motorized ones are better for low-down clogs and even plant roots that are intruding on your pipes.

3. Hydrojet Plumbing

When home remedies aren’t working, plumbers can employ hydrojet plumbing techniques. This drain cleaning process uses a high-pressure stream of water to break through heavy-duty clogs. Because of the pressure produced, hydrojetting has enough power to get through longer pipe systems and cut through tough clogs from grease, hair, and even mineral deposits.

4. Camera Inspection

Another professional method is a video camera inspection. When the source of the clog is a mystery, plumbers will send in a small camera affixed with an LED light to locate the exact spot where the blockage begins. This helps them decide what method to use next to clear the pipes.

5. Air Burst

Some professionals choose air bursts to clean pipes. A high-speed burst of carbon dioxide is forced into your system to remove whatever is clogging the drain. This system is much safer than using chemical drain cleaners that can cause corrosion and damage pipes.

When you need a plumber in central and south Texas, call A-1 Tri-County Plumbing. Located in Seguin, their professional drain cleaning and hydrojet plumbing services will keep your pipes protected 24-hours a day. For almost 35 years, the family-owned company offers reliable, fast service and a professional team for every job. To contact an emergency plumber in and around San Marcos, San Antonio, and Austin, call (512) 353-8656. Visit their website for a look at their other services, including residential remodeling and repairs.