We’ve all had clogged drains at some point, whether it was a backed-up shower drain or an overflowing kitchen sink. Many times, these obstructions are easily resolved without a plumber’s assistance. In a pinch, a lot of homes will use do-it-yourself (DIY) cleaning techniques to help solve the issue. A liquid drain cleaner is frequently the first thing that comes to mind during such situations. After all, computer-generated images of foam flying through pipes to dissolve clogs at once are popular in the advertisements for these goods. You probably reach for that container of thick blue liquid with unsafe chemicals after seeing all those ads, because you assume it would finish the job right away. Unfortunately, these advertisements focus more on fantasy than fact and omit to convey the true risks associated with relying solely on liquid drain cleaners.
DIY drain cleaning rarely delivers true, long-lasting results. It only serves as a temporary fix, concealing a larger issue that can only be addressed by hiring a professional drain cleaning service. For instance, you can have a plumbing line crack that is allowing dirt and other debris to enter and causing a clog, which is the reason why your tub drains slowly. Blockages can become much bigger issues that will cost you a great deal of money to fix if you don’t handle them immediately and let them accumulate over time. Making the call to a qualified plumber can ensure that you aren’t putting off a greater problem.
Issues with performing a DIY drain cleaning
1. Worsen a previous problem: Homeowners might intensify the issue by digging around in the pipes if there is a significant plumbing issue. Using DIY drain cleaners could make a tiny issue, whether it be with the toilet, mainline, or the main drain, into a bigger problem. It can lead to serious issues like the bursting of the pipes, loose connections or a leak in the plumbing system. These problems are significantly more expensive to address than merely calling a plumber to unclog the pipe initially.
2. Fail to Address the Real Issue: When a clog occurs, it can be challenging for homeowners to determine exactly what’s wrong with their plumbing. A clog may appear to be a simple issue, but there may be far more serious problems lurking underneath it. Even if you manage to clear a clog, the solution is typically only temporary. Something more significant is occurring in the background and demands attention. You may be dealing with a root intrusion or a collapsed mainline and not even know it. The only way to acquire a precise image of what’s happening is to ask a skilled plumber for assistance.
3. Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals: Although liquid drain cleaners may appear to be a quick remedy, they really contain harsh chemicals that can erode your pipes and increase the likelihood of leaks or other damage. Drain cleaners often use harsh chemicals that can damage pipes and even be harmful to humans. Chemicals from the cleaner can still be present in the air even after you’ve dumped them down the drain. Anyone who enters the room thereby consumes poisonous pollutants. They are highly hazardous if consumed and can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes upon contact. Incorrect use of the gases they emit can result in explosions. Furthermore, liquid drain cleaners can permanently stain your bathroom floor and fixtures and eat through clothing.
4. The use of drain cleaning equipment might be risky: Let’s say you’ve never used a plumbing snake or drain cleaning equipment before. In that situation, you face the chance of risking your security while clearing the drain on your own using machinery. Working with drain-snaking equipment can be risky since the cable could become tangled in a blockage or even swing back, perhaps injuring the user. Once you start inserting a metal rod into your drains and it starts whirling around, it could cause damage to your pipes, especially if your house is older.
5. Pipe Corrosion: Hydrochloric acid, which is found in several drain cleaners, is quite corrosive and can cause significant damage to pipes if used improperly. While they are effective at dissolving and removing clogs, they erode your pipes and drainage system. Drain cleaners with a high acidity level also eliminate significant sewer line germs. By dissolving the debris caught in drains, these bacteria stop clogs from forming in the first place.
6. Incorrect choice of drain cleaner: Today, there are a variety of drain cleaners available. However, the fastest and most efficient way to unclog a drain is to employ a particular cleaner that can dissolve the distinct material that each clog has accumulated. Plumbing experts typically select the solution that will best solve the problem after determining the nature of the clog. For instance, a professional will know to use a drain cleaner designed for bathrooms if you have a bathroom blockage because it will be developed to remove clogs made of hair and soap scum.
7. Time-consuming: Finding and fixing a plumbing problem might take a long time if you don’t have the proper tools, training, or expertise. In addition to squandering time and money, renting or purchasing equipment only to discover that the situation is worse than anticipated is a waste of resources. A skilled plumber can take up the obstruction in a matter of minutes after resolving the drain issue. They use effective techniques and can quickly get rid of the blockage. You can avoid wasting time trying to clear your drains on your own by doing this.
However, the best way to cure clogs is to prevent them from happening in the first place. You may also save time and money by having a plumber maintain your drains regularly. Even though it might be tempting to clear your drain yourself, a professional plumber will make sure the problem is fixed quickly and correctly. They will also be able to spot any major problems you aren’t aware of, which will save you time and money in the long run. So, it’s always better that you stop using DIY drain cleaning techniques and hire a professional instead.