Yes, clearing drains is one of the most common services that plumbers provide. Drain cleaning professionals have the expertise and tools to tackle blockages effectively. For minor clogs, they might use a standard drain snake to break up the obstruction. For more severe or stubborn blockages, advanced techniques such as hydro jetting—high-pressure water streams—can clear debris, grease, and buildup from the pipes.

While DIY methods can help with small clogs, professional help is needed for bigger issues. Trying to clear clogged drains without the proper tools or experience is not only frustrating, but it can actually worsen the problem or even damage your plumbing. Calling a plumber for drain issues ensures the job is done efficiently and safely.

A drain snake is a useful tool for small clogs, like hair in a bathroom sink. However, it’s not always the best option. If used incorrectly, it can damage your pipes, especially if they’re older. Plus, a drain snake often won’t work for bigger or recurring clogs caused by things like grease, scale buildup, or tree roots.

When you hire a plumber for drains, you get an expert with better tools and the knowledge to find and fix the root of the problem. If the clog keeps coming back or you’re unsure how to fix it safely, hiring a professional for drain cleaning is the smarter choice. It saves you time, hassle, and possible repair costs.

The time needed for a plumber to unblock drains depends on things like the severity and location of the blockage. For straightforward clogs, such as hair in a bathroom sink or food debris in a kitchen drain, a plumber might be able to fix the issue in as little as 30 minutes.

For more complex issues, like tree roots in outdoor pipes or hardened grease buildup deep within the system, professional drain cleaning could take several hours. Drain cleaning professionals assess the situation first and use the appropriate plumbing tools for drains to ensure thorough cleaning. Regardless of how long it ultimately takes, hiring a professional ensures your plumbing is restored safely and effectively.

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a significant difference between drain clearing vs. cleaning:

• Drain clearing involves removing blockages that prevent water from flowing through the pipes. It’s a reactive solution to a clogged drain, using tools like augers or drain snakes to remove the obstruction.
• Drain cleaning goes a step further by thoroughly cleaning the interior of the pipes to remove buildup, grease, and debris. Professional drain cleaning prevents future clogs and ensures your drains function optimally.

Understanding drain clearing vs. cleaning helps you decide what service you need. For severe blockages, drain clearing may suffice. For maintenance and long-term health of your plumbing, professional drain cleaning is the better choice.

Professional plumbers use a variety of techniques and plumbing tools for drains, depending on the nature of the clog.

• Drain Snakes and Augers: These tools are excellent for breaking up and removing localized blockages like hair or food debris.

• Hydro Jetting: This advanced technique uses high-pressure water to clean pipes thoroughly, removing grease, sludge, and even tree roots.

• Chemical Solutions: Used sparingly, these solutions can dissolve tough clogs without damaging your pipes.

• Inspection Cameras: To locate and diagnose the blockage accurately, professionals often use small cameras that navigate through the pipes.

These specialized plumbing tools for drains allow professionals to unblock drains efficiently and safely, minimizing the risk of damage to your plumbing system.