DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Calling a Plumber

Knowing When To DIY & When To Seek Professional Help

Dealing with a clogged drain is an inconvenience that many homeowners encounter at some point. While it’s tempting to grab a plunger or a drain snake and attempt to remove the clog by yourself, it’s important to recognize the limits that these techniques have and when it’s appropriate to call a professional plumber.

In this blog, we help homeowners identify the signs it’s time to contact a plumber for professional drain cleaning services.

How To Tell When It’s Time To Call a Professional Plumber for Drain Cleaning

In some cases, a small drain clog can be successfully resolved on your own, saving you time and money. However, there are instances where calling a professional plumber is the best decision, including:

1. Level of Severity

The severity of the clog is a crucial factor to consider before deciding whether to tackle it yourself or call a plumber. Minor clogs caused by hair, soap scum, or small debris are often manageable with DIY drain clog removal methods.

However, if the clog persists despite your best efforts, it’s an indication that the problem might be more complex. Stubborn clogs caused by tree root infiltration, collapsed pipes, or a major obstruction require professional assistance to avoid further damage.

2. Repeat Fixture Clogs

If you find yourself dealing with frequent or recurring drain clogs, it’s a sign that there may be an underlying issue with your plumbing system. While you might temporarily clear the clog on your own, it’s important to identify and address the root cause.

A professional plumber has the necessary knowledge and tools to diagnose the problem accurately and provide a long-term solution that prevents future clogs and potential plumbing disasters.

3. Ineffective DIY Methods

DIY drain cleaning methods, such as plunging or using a drain snake, can be effective for minor clogs. Plunging can dislodge simple blockages, while a drain snake has a further reach and can extract debris from deeper within the system. However, it’s important to note that these methods may not always provide a permanent solution.

In some cases, DIY attempts may even worsen the clog or damage the pipes if not performed correctly. A professional plumber has the expertise to use advanced tools and techniques that can thoroughly clean your drains without causing additional harm to your fixtures.

4. Health & Safety

Certain clogs can pose health risks and should be handled by professionals. For example, a clogged toilet that overflows or a drain that contains sewage requires immediate attention from a plumber. These situations can expose you and your family to harmful bacteria and contaminants. Professional plumbers are trained to handle such scenarios safely, equipped with protective gear and the knowledge to mitigate health and safety hazards.

5. Time & Convenience

While attempting to fix a clogged drain yourself might seem like a cost-saving measure at first glance, it’s essential to consider the time and effort involved. DIY methods can be time-consuming, especially if the clog proves to be persistent or complex. Moreover, without proper tools and experience, you may end up spending more time and money on ineffective solutions.

By calling a professional plumber, you can save yourself the hassle and frustration of trial and error, allowing you to focus on other priorities for your home.

Trust Campbell & Company With Your Drain Cleaning Needs

While some minor drain clogs can be resolved with DIY methods, many are best left to the hands of a professional plumbing company. Persistent or severe clogs, repeated blockages, health concerns, and the desire for a permanent solution are all valid reasons to call a professional plumber. Remember, by seeking professional help, you not only save time and money in the long run but also ensure the safety and functionality of your plumbing system.

Dealing with a stubborn blockage in your drains? Trust Campbell & Company to do it right. With 24/7 emergency service and satisfaction guaranteed, we’re proud to be the go-to source for expert drain clog removal in Yakima and the surrounding Tri-Cities area.

Call us at 509-545-9848 to request drain cleaning service today!