When you encounter a household problem such as a clogged drain, you might have the urge to be your own handyman. However, as admirable and cost-efficient as this choice may seem, it’s not always the best one. If you’re stumped as to whether to snake your own drain or call a plumbing professional, use the following guide to make the best decision for your situation.

When to DIY 

If this is the first time a particular sink or tub has been slow to drain, you’re probably dealing with a minor clog. In this case, there’s a chance you can safely purchase a snake and attempt to remove the blockage yourself.

If you choose to visit the hardware store and invest in a snake, be sure to purchase the correct size and read the instructions. When you get home, insert the end of the snake into the opening of the drain—and be gentle, as the pipe may be curved. Turn the handle on the drum as you push the snake in, and keep pushing until you feel something resisting. At this point, you’ve likely hit the culprit. Turn the snake so it cuts into the clog, and remove it from the drain opening. Remember, the key here is to try once—if it doesn’t work, set down the tool and call a professional. Even clogs that seem simple can be quite difficult to take care of yourself.

When to Call a Plumbing Professional

In addition to having to pay for a snake yourself, you could buy the wrong size when taking the DIY approach. A snake that’s too small won’t be able to reach or cut through the clog, and one that’s too big could damage your plumbing.

Many pipes also feature a P-trap curve, which holds a small amount of water to block sewage fumes from coming up the drain. If you try to jam the snake into this rounded arm, you could damage it as well as send hazardous odors into your house. If the clog is bad enough, part of the pipe might have to be removed and replaced, which only a professional can safely accomplish.

Therefore, if the same drain has been blocked multiple times or if your first attempt with a snake proves futile, call a professional plumber. They’ll have the expertise to find and attack the clog without damaging your piping, and they’ll need a fraction of the time to do it. Finally, some clogs are bigger than they seem or situated deeper in the pipe than you suspect. A pro will have the equipment to tackle anything.

If you want to save time and money by hiring a professional to unclog your drain, get in touch with Buck's Plumbing & Sewer Service of Cookeville, TN. They’ve been helping residents of the Upper Cumberland area for over 57 years, and they’ll be happy to restore normalcy and efficiency to your household. To learn more about their plumbing services, including water heater installation and septic cleaning, visit the website. Call (931) 836-1157 to schedule an appointment with their trusted team.