The Homeowner's Frequently Asked Questions on Sewer and Drain Cleaning

With the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are looking for tips and guidance regarding home maintenance. This includes sewer and drain cleaning, an important aspect to consider for property owners and homeowners especially in the Austin area. All property and homeowners need to know about sewer and drain cleaning, including what to look for, and what to ask a professional. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding sewer and drain cleaning in Austin, Texas that many property owners and homeowners may have.

What Are the Signs of a Clogged Drain?

A clogged drain is often indicated by a foul odor coming from the drain. When something gets stuck in the drain, it can start to rot and cause a nasty smell. You may also start to notice an increase in the time it takes for sink and tub water to drain. Additionally, water backs up into other sinks and tubs in the house or if all the sinks and tubs will not drain, then this is a clear sign your drain is clogged and needs to be professionally cleaned.

Why Does My Drains Keep Clogging?

There can be several reasons why your drains are repeatedly clogging. Sometimes the main line is clogged, so all of the exiting pipes in your home are impacted, or there can be a localized blockage elsewhere in the system. Debris such as food, grease, hair, and cleaning products can accumulate in the pipes and cause a slow-down or clog, not to mention tree roots invading your system! The best thing to do is to inspect the entire system and check for any blockage or damage.

When Should I Clean My Drains?

It is recommended to inspect your drains and sewer annually to make sure they are not clogged or blocked. This should be done more frequently if your home has a lot of trees and vegetation that can cause roots to grow in and block your drains. You should also inspect your drains if you notice any of the warning signs previously discussed. If you are suspicious of something, it is better to check it out than to assume everything is just fine.

What Is Involved When Cleaning Drains?

Cleaning drains and sewers involves a few steps. First, a professional plumber will use a camera system to visually check for blockages or damaged pipes. This allows the plumber to detect blockages further down the line and recommend the best course of action to remove them. After the visual inspection, the plumber may use a high-pressure water jetting system to flush out the area, or a plumbing auger to snake and unclog the drain.

Are There Any DIY Techniques I Can Use?

Though we recommend that you hire a professional plumber to clean your drains, there are some do-it-yourself techniques that you can use to try and unclog your drain. In some cases, vinegar and baking soda can be used to break up clogs. That being said, it is not wise to use harsh chemicals as they may corrode or weaken your pipes. It is also suggested that you use plungers and snake drain cleaners with caution as they can cause more damage than good.

Do I Need Special Equipment For Drain Cleaning?

Though some do-it-yourself techniques can work for unclogging drains, hiring a professional is usually recommended. Professional plumbers have the skills, tools, and equipment necessary to quickly and safely clear out blockages and clean your drains and sewers. This may include hydro jetting which uses high pressure water to blast through and clear blockages and remove debris from the pipes.

sewer and drain cleaning

Austin

Texas