Preventive drain cleaning is essential to avoid clogs and other plumbing trouble. However, if done incorrectly, it can damage your pipes. A professional plumber can ensure that drain cleaning removes debris without leaving behind problems. There are several reasons why improper drain cleaning can cause issues.
Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
Homeowners often purchase chemical drain cleaners from their local hardware store to clear drains. Unfortunately, these products are made from caustic ingredients that can cause damage. Also, drain cleaner chemicals can interact with water and generate a substantial amount of heat. This heat can soften PVC pipes and degrade metal plumbing. You run the risk of leaks and burst pipes when using chemical drain cleaners regularly.
Chemicals in drain cleaners can also create a tunnel through blockages instead of removing them fully. This can lead to recurring clogs. Manual drain cleaning or cleaning products with enzyme-based ingredients are better alternatives. You can also periodically flush baking soda and white vinegar down your pipes for a safer clean.
Forceful Pipe Snaking
It’s important to have a professional correctly uses drain snakes to remove debris and clogs. Otherwise, this can lead to scratches on the interior of your pipes as snakes force their way through bends and tight areas. This can promote corrosion and compromise the protective liner of your pipes. These scratches can also promote the growth of bacteria within your pipes. You may notice foul smells coming from your drains when this bacteria forms.
Incorrect Use of Hydro Jetting
While hydro jetting is an effective way to clear pipe debris, it can also cause damage. Pressure that’s too high can erode pipes and connections. The damage may not be visible at first, but it can lead to premature corrosion. Immediate leaks can occur from cracks or holes in your pipes.
Not using enough pressure during hydro jetting will inhibit the removal of clogs. This leads to expensive maintenance and emergency repairs when clogs form. If clogs cause leaks, they can result in expensive structural damage.
Premature Pipe Replacement
Incorrect drain cleaning can cause issues that force you to replace pipes prematurely. Most PVC pipes last approximately 75 to 100 years under ideal conditions. Metal pipes can last up to 100 years. Pipe longevity can decrease substantially with the use of improper cleaning methods. If plunging or natural methods don’t work, professional assistance is necessary to protect your plumbing system and home.
Reach out for support with drain cleaning, so your home’s plumbing system can remain in great condition. Contact our team at Sargent’s Plumbing and Heating to schedule an appointment for professional drain cleaning in Oceano, CA.
