Choosing which plumbing service you need to fix your clogged drain can be confusing. Fortunately, Mr. Plumber is here to clear up any uncertainty surrounding drain clog solutions. Cleaning and clearing a drain may sound like the same thing, but they are two different procedures for varying sets of needs. If you’re currently dealing with a blocked drain, read on to learn more about the difference between each strategy to help determine which method is better suited for your drain issues.
Clearing A Clogged Drain
During a drain clearing, your plumber will utilize a drain snake to break apart the clog in your affected pipe. A plumbing snake is a motorized heavy-duty cable with rotating metal blades at the tip designed to shred through blockages. Water flow will typically resume after clearing the drain, but clog particles still remain in your piping. Although your drain may seem fixed for the moment, leftover debris can lead to recurring clogs and other problems down the road.
Drain clearings are more so considered a “quick fix” for blocked pipes instead of a long-term solution. However, it’s the least invasive of the two clog-removal methods and ideal for homes with older plumbing that might be too fragile for the drain cleaning process.
Drain Cleaning
A drain cleaning involves a more in-depth procedure called hydro-jetting. Hydro-jetting is a powerful method for unclogging drains that also works to eliminate the potential for future blockages. This process includes sending highly pressurized water through your pipes with the use of a specialized hose and nozzle. The force of these high-pressure water jets can cut through any stubborn substances and objects stuck in your pipeline, from grease to tree roots!
A professional drain cleaning is recommended for pipes with more chronic issues, so it might be an ideal solution if you’re constantly dealing with drain clogs. Although a more invasive method, hydro-jetting provides a thorough pipe cleaning that is sure to prevent future clogs and the need for repairs later on, resulting in a longer lifespan.
Common Signs Your Blocked Drain Needs Cleaning
In addition to frequently clogged drains, here are a few signs that indicate you require a drain cleaning as opposed to a clearing:
- Multiple clogged drains
- Unpleasant odors coming from your drains
- Strange sounds, such as gurgling or bubbling
- Standing water in your sink or shower and around appliances, like your washing machine, dishwasher, etc.
- High water bills
If you experience any of these symptoms, call a plumbing expert immediately to avoid prolonging the damage.
Hire A Professional Plumbing Company
If you’re still unsure which drain-removal service is needed in your case, our experts at Mr. Plumber will inspect your plumbing system to help determine which strategy is best. With over 45 years of experience under our belts, we’ve seen and dealt with it all when it comes to drain clogs, so we guarantee a solution for your specific needs. Whether you need a professional clearing, cleaning or repair, our team will fix it right. We proudly serve residents of the greater San Antonio community, so give us a call if you’re in the area and need plumbing service!
