Drain cleaner: What you need to know

Drain cleaner: What you need to know

A drain cleaner can refer to a chemical (that somehow dissolves the clog) or a device that gets to the root of the problem (drain snake).

In both cases, the goal is to unclog the drain system. This is for the water to flow away through. If the drain system is always clear from clogs, there’s less risk for flooding or water backup.

What happens if the drains are clogged? When sudden heavy rains come (or light rains going on for days), water can accumulate especially in low-lying areas such as the basement. Water has no way to go through because of the clogs.

In our bathrooms and kitchens, clogged drains can also cause problems. Water can also accumulate in sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. Some of the dirt might back up, which can be a hazardous health issue. It’s also an unpleasant sight for both residents and visitors.

Clogged drains are a serious problem for the residential, commercial, and industrial establishments. Blocked drains can cause property damages and thousands of dollars of expenses if the problem was not taken seriously.

That’s why many people opt for a quality drain cleaner service. But before that, they usually take the do-it-yourself approach. Let’s explore that first. Then we will briefly discuss drain cleaner services offered by experienced professionals.

Drain cleaner: The DIY approach

Drain Cleaner Service - Drain Cleaning
We discussed earlier that a drain cleaner can refer either to a chemical or a device.

In many cases, chemicals and drain snakes can effectively unclog the drains. They both work because they usually directly deal with the root of the problem.

Many residents go for a drain cleaner on toilets and sinks when plunging no longer works. Using a plunger is laborious. Also, if the problem is frequent or persistent, a drain cleaner is the best way to go.

What is a chemical drain cleaner? It partially dissolves the clog. This way the clog can get smaller (or alter its shape). The clog can then freely move down the drain and there will be nothing to block the water.

Residents can easily buy a chemical drain cleaner from the store. In many cases, it can effectively dissolve or remove the clog. Drain cleaning solutions can be made up of strong or mild chemicals.

Many residents also try the mild “chemicals” readily available at home. Many try the use of baking soda and vinegar to clear the clogged drain. They commonly use it in sinks where the problem is just light and not too serious.

Aside from chemicals, some residents also use a mechanical drain cleaner. A common device for this is the drain snake (also called a drain auger or plumber’s snake). It’s called as such because the device resembles a snake.

The drain snake can move through the curves and narrow paths of the drain system. Then, once it touches the clog, the drain snake can pull it out or move it somehow so it can go down the drain. It’s a simple and straightforward approach to unclogging the drain system.

Residents can readily buy a mechanical drain cleaner from a hardware store. Some have figured out ingenious ways to make a drain snake of their own (by using a wire). Just like with the chemicals, a simple drain snake can solve many drain problems.

When do you need a drain cleaner service?

If the above approaches already work, why would you even need a drain service?

There are cases when the clogs are pretty solid. It could be the result of having a large enough object being accidentally dropped into the drain. It can also be the result of years of accumulated dirt and debris.

Another case is when the drain systems in commercial and industrial establishments are clogged. These are big systems which require a powerful device and professional approach.

In homes, offices, and other commercial areas, a professional drain cleaner service might be the best solution. A team of experienced professionals can take care of the problem and even prevent worse problems down the road.

Our team uses powerful drain snakes to completely remove the clog. This will help you prepare for the upcoming rainy days. You won’t have to worry much about sudden flooding because you know the drain is working perfectly.

We also offer a complete drain repair and waterproofing solution. We address each issue promptly and we offer a free consultation. Stay dry and call us at +1 416-858-4444.