When to Call a Plumber for Drain Cleaning Service

When your drains start gurgling like a discontented toddler, it might be time to consider professional intervention.

Drain cleaning is an essential part of maintaining a healthy plumbing system in your home. Over time, debris, grease, hair, and other materials can build up in your drains, causing them to become clogged. While there are a few DIY methods that you can try to clear a drain, sometimes it's best to call in a professional plumber to get the job done right.

The decision to summon a plumber for drain cleaning service can be crucial, especially when factors like persistent issues or failed DIY attempts come into play.

So, when is it time to call a plumber for drain cleaning service?

Early Signs of Drain Clogs

Recurring clogs

Clogged drains are a common household problem that many of us have experienced at one point or another. Whether it’s in the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or shower, dealing with a clog can be frustrating and inconvenient. But what happens when the clogs keep coming back, no matter how many times you try to clear them out?

Recurring clogs are a frustrating issue that many people deal with on a regular basis. There are a few common reasons why clogs keep coming back, and understanding these causes can help you prevent future clogs and keep your drains running smoothly.

One common reason for recurring clogs is improper disposal of items down the drain. Many people mistakenly believe that their drains can handle just about anything, when in reality, certain items can lead to clogs over time. Items like grease, coffee grounds, hair, and soap scum can accumulate in your pipes and cause blockages. To prevent recurring clogs, make sure to properly dispose of these items in the trash rather than down the drain.

Another common cause of recurring clogs is tree roots infiltrating your sewer lines. Over time, tree roots can grow into your pipes, causing blockages and backups. If you suspect that tree roots are causing your recurring clogs, it’s important to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

Improper installation of pipes or a lack of maintenance can also lead to recurring clogs. If your pipes are old or corroded, they may be more prone to clogs and blockages. Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch any issues early on and prevent recurring clogs.

Slow drainage

Slow drainage is a common household issue that can be frustrating to deal with. It not only hinders your daily routine but can also lead to bigger plumbing problems if not addressed promptly.

There are several reasons why your drains may be moving sluggishly. The most common culprit is a buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris that has accumulated in your pipes over time. This can create a blockage that restricts the flow of water and causes it to drain slowly.

Another common cause of slow drainage is a clog in the P-trap, the curved pipe beneath your sink or bathtub. This trap is designed to hold water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home, but it can also trap debris and create a blockage.

Foul odors

Foul odors in drains are a common problem that many homeowners face. But what causes these odors and how can you get rid of them?

One of the main causes of foul odors in drains is a buildup of bacteria and organic matter. When food particles or other debris get stuck in your drains, they can start to decompose and produce a bad smell. This is especially common in kitchen sinks where food scraps can easily get washed down the drain.

Another common culprit is a dry drain trap. The trap is the U-shaped pipe underneath your sink that holds water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. If this trap dries out, it can allow those gases to come up through your drains and create a foul odor.

Gurgling sounds

The most common cause of gurgling sounds in drains is a clog or blockage somewhere in the plumbing system. When water is trying to flow through a pipe that is partially blocked, it can create air bubbles that get trapped and make that distinct gurgling noise. This can happen in any drain in your home, from the kitchen sink to the bathtub.

Another potential cause of gurgling drains is a ventilation issue. Every plumbing system is equipped with vents that allow air to flow through the pipes, helping water to drain smoothly. If these vents become blocked or clogged, it can lead to air bubbles and gurgling sounds in the drains.

To prevent gurgling sounds in your drains in the future, be sure to properly maintain your plumbing system. Avoid putting large amounts of food scraps, grease, or other debris down the drain, as these can lead to clogs. Regularly clean out your drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to help keep them clear.

Water backing up

Water backing up in drains is a common household issue that can cause frustration and inconvenience. 

There are several reasons why water may be backing up in your drains. One of the most common causes is a clog in the pipes. Over time, hair, food particles, soap scum, and other debris can build up in the pipes, causing blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. Another common cause of drain backups is tree roots growing into the pipes, causing a blockage that can lead to water backing up in your drains.

Preventing water backups in your drains is also important. One key way to prevent clogs is to be mindful of what you're putting down your drains. Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, and other substances that can solidify and clog your pipes. Regularly cleaning your drains with a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar can also help prevent clogs from forming.

DIY Drain Cleaning Gone Wrong

While DIY drain cleaning can be a quick and cost-effective solution for minor clogs, there are times when attempting to unclog a drain on your own can lead to disastrous results.

One of the main reasons why DIY drain cleaning can go wrong is that many homeowners don't have the proper tools or knowledge to effectively clear out stubborn clogs. Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh on your pipes and temporary solutions at best. They can also harm your skin, eyes, and lungs if not handled properly. Additionally, plungers may not be powerful enough to dislodge deep clogs or blockages in your pipes, leading to a continued issue.

Another common mistake that DIYers make is using improper methods or tools to try and clear a clog. For example, using a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake without the proper training can damage your pipes and worsen the problem. Similarly, using excessive force with a plunger or trying to DIY a homemade drain cleaner with baking soda and vinegar may not be enough to tackle tough clogs.

When DIY drain cleaning goes wrong, it can lead to even bigger problems, such as pipe damage, water leaks, and even flooding. These issues can result in costly repairs and potential water damage to your home.

That's why it's important to know when to call a professional plumber for drain cleaning. Plumbers have the experience, expertise, and specialized tools needed to effectively clear out clogs and blockages in your pipes. They can also conduct a thorough inspection of your plumbing system to identify any underlying issues that may be causing recurring drain problems.

Persistent Drain Issues

Dealing with persistent drain issues can be a frustrating experience that requires professional intervention to effectively resolve. When you find yourself repeatedly facing clogged drains despite attempting DIY solutions, it may be time to call in a professional plumber.

Professional drain cleaning offers several benefits that can help address persistent drain issues efficiently. Plumbers have the necessary expertise and equipment to identify the root cause of the problem, whether it's due to debris buildup, tree root intrusions, or other complex issues. By utilizing advanced techniques like hydro-jetting or sewer camera inspections, professionals can thoroughly clean your drains and prevent future blockages.

Instead of continuously struggling with recurring drain problems, investing in professional drain cleaning services can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Don't let persistent drain issues disrupt your daily routine - reach out to a plumber for expert assistance and reliable solutions.

Call Tru Flo Plumbing for Professional Drain Cleaning Services

If you notice early signs of drain clogs, don't hesitate to call a plumber for drain cleaning service.

At Tru Flo Plumbing, we have the experience, tools, and expertise to effectively clear out even the toughest drain clogs. Our team of skilled plumbers uses advanced drain cleaning techniques, such as hydro jetting, to safely and effectively blast away debris and buildup from your pipes. This high-pressure water jetting system can remove years of accumulated grime, grease, and mineral deposits, leaving your drains clean and flowing smoothly.

When you choose Tru Flo Plumbing for your drain cleaning needs, you can trust that you are getting top-notch service from a team of highly trained professionals. We take pride in our work and always go the extra mile to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied with the results.

Call Tru Flo Plumbing today to schedule professional drain cleaning services and keep your drains running smoothly for years to come.