When your plumbing system develops a clog, you have two basic options: Either use a DIY removal method or call a professional plumbing company. It’s almost always better to hire the pros for stubborn blockages involving tree root intrusion, grease buildup, or severe mineral deposits. Professionals have special tools like hydro-jetting equipment that can clear away tough clogs without damaging your pipes. This guide walks you through the different tools and why they’re so effective.

Sewer Camera Inspections

It can be nearly impossible to eliminate a drain clog if you don’t know where it is or what’s causing it. This is why it’s so helpful to call a licensed plumber. They have advanced cameras that let them look through your plumbing lines to find the exact location of a blockage and what’s causing it. This is crucial to picking the right removal method.

Motorized Drain Snakes and Augers

A plunger can do a good job of removing clogs that are near the drain’s opening. But those that are deeper in the drain line will almost always need a drain snake or auger to clear away. These tools can often reach as much as 100 feet into your plumbing lines. They have unique hooks or cutting heads on them that can be rotated to snag and cut through the stuck debris. Some versions are even motorized to generate enough torque to break apart dense blockages and root intrusions.

Hydro Jetting

If you have a clog that keeps coming back, your plumber may recommend hydro jetting. This service always starts with a careful inspection of the drain line to ensure it can handle high-pressure water. As the pressurized water hits the insides of the pipes, it scours away heavy buildup.

Wet/Dry Vacuums

If the drain clog has resulted in standing water over the drain, the plumber may first take a wet/dry vacuum to it to remove the excess water. This allows the professional to better see the drain opening as they begin clearing the clog. The vacuum can also help remove hair and soap residue that’s near the drain opening.

One of the easiest ways to prevent drain clogs is to have a professional inspect your plumbing once a year. If a plumber recognizes the early warning signs of buildup, they can choose a cleaning method that’s best suited for the condition of your pipes. You should steer clear of chemical drain cleaners since many types contain harsh chemicals that can corrode your pipes over time. When you need drain cleaning services in Nipomo, CA, contact Sargent’s Plumbing and Heating.