What Is Drain Cleaning, and What Does It Involve? 

Many hear the term “drain cleaning” and imagine scrubbing the area around the drain. However, drain cleaning refers to keeping the home’s pipes clear of debris that could cause clogs or cleaning out existing clogs. Plumbers rely on sophisticated tools to clear lines and keep the plumbing system healthy. This guide lets homeowners learn about drain cleaning, including when it’s needed and what that process entails. 

Signs That a Homeowner Needs Drains Cleaning 

Some signs that a sewer line is clogged and needs drain cleaning include: 

• Slowly draining water: If the sink or tub drains too slowly (or not at all), this could point to an obstruction in the plumbing system. 
• Odors come from the drain: If a sewer or drain line is clogged, food residue can rest in the pipes and rot over time which can cause unpleasant odors––among other concerns. 
• Backups: If water or sewage backs up into the home’s sinks, tubs, or other drains, it can also indicate the sewer line is clogged and can be another reason for foul odors. 

Homeowners should also consult a professional if they experience poor water pressure from their plumbing fixtures because reasons for this could include clogs, leaks, and other complications in the water line. 

Drain Snakes Remove Hard-to-Reach Clogs 

Often, plumbers use a drain snake to remove obstructions in pipes. A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a crank. To use this device and clear a clog, a plumber: 

• Locates the clog 
• Inserts the drain snake into the drain 
• Turns the crank manually or mechanically to move the cable through the line  
• Grabs onto the obstruction with the coil at the end of the drain snake
• Pulls it out 

Some drain snakes come with cameras on the end, allowing plumbers to see the clogs up close. Ultimately, they are an effective way for professionals to clear tough clogs. 

Hydro Jetting Clears and Prevents Clogs 

Hydro jetting is another process used by plumbers to clear and prevent clogs. This method uses a powerful stream of pressurized water in the pipes to break up debris, grease build-up, and other blockages that accumulate in pipes. Hydro jetting offers several advantages over other methods for unclogging drains and removing obstructions. 

The first benefit of hydro jetting is its effectiveness in clearing stubborn clogs with minimal risk of damage to the plumbing system as opposed to store-bought, chemical solutions that can damage pipes. It can easily break apart built-up deposits of grease, soap scum, and other debris that are difficult to remove with traditional tools. Additionally, hydro jetting helps to prevent future clogs by removing particles from the walls of the pipes that could cause blockages in the future, making them an effective clog prevention measure, unlike drain snaking.

About Laney’s Inc. 

Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company that has been serving Fargo and the surrounding areas since 1960. They provide upfront service, fast response time, and honest advice. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Fargo, ND.

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