There are some occasions when all it takes to fix a clogged or slow-moving drain is a sturdy plunger and a hefty dose of elbow grease. When troubles with drainage persist, however, professional help is usually warranted. Clogs and obstructions in pipes, as well as drains, can signify more serious issues. Ignoring these can result in a flood of problems that will require major plumbing repairs. When your Jacksonville, IL home is plagued with a persistently slow or clogged drain, there are three clear reasons for calling a plumbing expert:
Chemical Drain Cleaner Can Damage Pipes
DIY drain cleaners are promoted as safe, user-friendly solutions for clogged drains. Unfortunately, anyone who has experienced a burst pipe after using one of these products can tell you that the caustic chemicals contained in them can cause severe damage to drains and pipes. Keep in mind, if the drain cleaner can’t clear the clog, it can’t be properly rinsed away either. So the chemicals can remain trapped in place, eating away at the pipes. Retail drain cleaners also present health and safety hazards. Most contain harmful substances like sulfuric acid or lye, which can cause skin burns and respiratory damage.
Multiple Clogged Drains Point To A Bigger Problem
When more than one drain is slow-moving or clogged, drain cleaners and augers aren’t likely to be effective. While there are a variety of reasons for multiple clogged drains, none of them are easy DIY fixes. Causes can range from a single obstruction in a main sewer line to a collapsed pipe due to shifting soil, corrosion, or root infiltration. The entire length of the drain may be lined with soft or hard obstructions. Professional plumbers can use specialized drain cleaning equipment that can clear the drain line from the opening to the lateral piping outside of the building.
Protect Your Plumbing System
A drain doesn’t have to become completely clogged to impact your plumbing system’s performance. A slow-running drain doesn’t provide enough water volume and pressure to simplify grooming and cleaning tasks. Your clothes and dishes will be cleaner and you’ll enjoy a better shower experience when your pipes and drains are clear of obstructions. Professional drain cleaning services optimize the flow of water throughout your home or business. Drain cleaning also protects your property by extending the life of your plumbing system and reducing the likelihood of a future plumbing repair.
When a drain becomes clogged, it’s not always apparent if there is an underlying cause. You can invest time and money into trying to clear the clog yourself without solving the problem. At HRI Plumbing, our expert plumbers can troubleshoot and repair clogged or slow-moving drains quickly and efficiently, saving you from a messy and unpleasant job. To learn more or to schedule service, contact us today at 217-334-4545.
