A Complete Handbook for Professional Drain Cleaning

What Is Drain Cleaning?

When water backs up in the sink, a shower drains slowly, or strange odors come from the drains, it's a sign that drains need cleaning. While using a quick chemical solution or ignoring the problem may seem tempting, knowing the proper drain cleaning techniques can save time, money, and trouble in the long run. Professional drain cleaning is crucial for prolonging the life of a plumbing system and protecting the home from water damage, whether performing routine maintenance or dealing with a tough clog. This thorough guide explores the best ways, tools, and preventative steps used to keep drains flowing smoothly.

Signs Drain Cleaning Is Needed

Several warning signs indicate drains need professional cleaning. Some of the most urgent signs include multiple clogged drains, gurgling sounds from pipes, and water backing up in unusual places (such as shower water in the toilet or sink). Bad smells, especially a sewage odor, usually mean there's a large blockage in the main sewer line. Slow drainage in multiple fixtures or water pooling around floor drains clearly shows that the system needs professional help.

More serious signs requiring immediate professional drain cleaning include sewage backing up through floor drains or toilets, wet spots in the yard along the sewer line, or visible dips in the lawn, which could mean a collapsed pipe. These problems usually indicate issues beyond simple clogs, such as tree roots growing into the pipes, pipe damage, or large blockages that have built up over time. Attempting to fix these with store-bought solutions or basic tools often doesn't work and may even worsen the situation, so professional help is necessary.

Drain Snaking

A drain snake, also called a plumber's snake or auger, is a special plumbing tool with a long, flexible metal cable. One end has a coiled spring, and the other end has a handle. This tool is used to clear tough clogs that regular plungers and chemical cleaners can't handle. The metal cable, which can range from 25 to 100 feet long depending on the model, is inserted into the drain opening and turned using a manual handle or motorized unit. This allows it to move through pipe bends and break up or remove blockages.

The primary benefit of drain snaking is that it clears clogs without harming the plumbing system, unlike harsh chemicals that can damage pipes over time. Professional snakes come with interchangeable heads for various types of blockages, such as tree roots or grease buildup, making them versatile tools. Additionally, the physical contact between the snake and the clog provides valuable information about the blockage type and location, helping decide whether further repairs are needed. This mechanical cleaning method is particularly effective for recurring clogs because it can fully remove the blockage instead of merely creating a temporary opening.

Hydro Jetting

Hydro-jetting is an advanced method of drain cleaning that uses high-pressure water (usually between 1,500 to 4,000 PSI) to clear and clean drainage systems. A special hose with a multi-directional nozzle is inserted into the drain line, releasing strong streams of water that clean the pipe walls and break down tough blockages simultaneously. This technique is especially effective at removing grease, mineral deposits, tree roots, and other debris that conventional drain cleaning methods might not handle.

Unlike traditional drain snakes, which only create a path through the clog, hydro-jetting thoroughly cleans the pipes, making them almost like new. The high-pressure water removes built-up residue, preventing future blockages. This preventative aspect makes hydro-jetting a good long-term solution that saves money, as properly cleaned pipes are less likely to become clogged again. The process is also environmentally friendly, using only water without harsh chemicals, and can be safely used in most residential and commercial plumbing systems, provided they are in good structural condition.

About All Clear Plumbing

All Clear Plumbing is a family-owned and operated company serving Essex, Passaic, Hudson, and Bergen counties since 1952. They offer flat-rate pricing and prompt services. Call them for plumbing, heating, cooling, sewer, and drain cleaning services in Belleville, NJ.

Contact Information:

All Clear Plumbing

54 Greylock Ave
Belleville, NJ 07109
United States

Ivan Gonzalez
(973) 450-8660
https://www.allclearnj.com/