Plumbing Express, Inc. repair and install piping, fixtures and appliances like sinks, toilets and water heaters. They also inspect plumbing systems to identify and repair issues such as leaks and clogs. They use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their job duties.

A plumber can clean drain pipes using mechanical or chemical methods. Mechanical cleaners are safer for pipes than chemical solutions.

A plunger is an essential tool that every homeowner should have on hand for when a drain gets clogged. It is inexpensive and easy to use, making it an effective drain cleaning solution for many types of blockages. It also saves the cost of calling a plumber for assistance. The key to plunging is to ensure that the rubber cup of the plunger covers the drain opening completely. When the plunger is used correctly, it creates suction that can dislodge even stubborn clogs.

Before using the plunger, it is a good idea to fill the sink or tub with water so that the plunger can be easily submerged and create an airtight seal. The goal is to be able to move the plunger up and down quickly, creating a rapid change in pressure that can dislodge debris. The movement of the plunger can also help to break up a clog by forcing the clogged material away from the walls of the drain pipe.

There are several different kinds of plungers, each designed for a specific type of drain. The standard cup plunger has a flat cup with a handle that is best suited for sinks and tub drains. The accordion plunger, which has a narrow end that fits into a toilet’s drain, is an excellent choice for removing toilet clogs. The flange plunger has a smoother surface and is best suited for shower stalls and bathtubs.

For particularly difficult clogs, you can try a plunger with an attached hose to extend its reach. If this does not work, you may need to consider a more powerful tool like a snake.

In addition to using a plunger, you can try pouring boiling water down the drain. However, this can be dangerous because hot water could damage your pipes. It is also a bad idea to flush down a clogged toilet, as it can dislodge the clog and cause sewage to back up into the home. Remember, you should only use toilet paper and human waste in your toilets; other products like wipes, diapers, cat litter, and other so-called “flushable” items can clog the system.

Chemical Cleaners

Clogged drains are a common problem and can cause messy overflows of water and other debris. If not dealt with promptly, they can also lead to water damage and create unpleasant odours. While a bottle of store-bought chemical cleaner may seem like a quick solution, repeated use can lead to pipe corrosion and shorten the lifespan of your plumbing system. Moreover, some of these chemicals can be dangerous to your health and the environment.

Typical chemical drain cleaners use caustic soda or other acidic compounds to dissolve clogs through a chemical reaction. These chemicals are harmful to pipes and can eat away at metal or plastic components. Additionally, they produce toxic fumes that can irritate the nose, eyes, and throat. Frequent use can also corrode older pipes and make them brittle, increasing the risk of failure or leaks.

Chemicals in drain cleaners can leach into groundwater and contaminate septic tanks, causing environmental pollution. They can also harm wildlife and damage plant life. If not disposed of properly, they can even seep into drinking water.

Natural cleaners, on the other hand, are safe for the environment and your pipes. They can be as effective as chemical drain cleaners, but they are less damaging to your pipes and the ecosystem. Baking soda and vinegar can break down clogs and deodorize your drains. Hot water can also dislodge minor blockages. For more severe clogs, you can try using a plunger or a plumbing snake.

A licensed plumber can help you avoid expensive drain cleaning emergencies by performing preventative maintenance. Regular inspections can identify potential problems and address them before they become serious. They can also use more advanced techniques like hydro-jetting and snaking to remove blockages without damaging fragile pipes. In addition, they can perform camera inspections to diagnose and repair pipe problems. Regular drain cleaning can ensure that your plumbing system works efficiently and effectively for years to come. For more information, contact a reputable plumber in your area. They can recommend the best drain-cleaning products for your needs and provide professional installation services.

Motorized Drain Augers

If a plunger fails to dislodge your drain blockage, you’ll need to try something more drastic. The most effective solution is to grab a plumber’s snake, also known as an auger. These tools work by spinning a steel cable with a cutting head attached at the end. This cable chugs along your pipes chewing and mashing any obstructions it encounters, and the head can even be rotated to break down hard-to-reach blockages.

When choosing a drain auger, it’s important to consider the size of your pipe. For most household clogs, you’ll want to select a cable that is no longer than six feet. Longer cables are designed for commercial and industrial use, so they can cut through tougher, thicker clogs.

Before using a snake or auger, read the manufacturer’s directions and watch any provided instructional videos. Be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and a pair of rubber gloves. Insert the snake or auger into your clogged pipe and turn the handle clockwise. Rotate the snake back and forth while pushing it into the pipe until you feel resistance.

Once you feel the resistance, twist the snake or auger and push it into the clogged pipe again. Repeat this process until you feel that the clog is dislodged. Once you’ve removed the clog, flush your toilet to ensure it’s completely clear. If the clog doesn’t budge, call your local plumber for help. Professional plumbers have the tools and experience necessary to tackle even the most stubborn clogs.

Hydro-Jetting

Hydro jetting is a powerful drain cleaning solution that uses high-pressure water to dislodge and flush out materials like grease, hair, soap scum, mineral deposits, and more. The process involves inserting a hose into your pipes and firing out pressurized water streams at up to 5,000 pounds per square inch (psi) and 20 gallons per minute. This is more than enough power to remove the most stubborn clogs and leave your pipes in pristine condition.

Hydro-jetting is an effective option for a wide variety of pipe problems, including stubborn drain blockages and major sewer line backups. While it’s not suitable for all clogs, it can be particularly useful in tackling tree root penetrations. To avoid causing damage to your pipes, it’s important to work with a plumber who carries out a video inspection before starting treatment. This will allow you to see the severity of the issue and help the plumber to determine whether or not hydro jetting is appropriate for your situation.

Unlike tools like plungers and plumbing snakes, which only release the blockage for a short while before it returns, hydro jetting can clear out your pipes and prevent future issues. Because of this, it’s often the preferred option for long-lasting solutions to recurring clogs.

While it isn’t ideal for all clogs, hydro jetting is the best solution for removing invasive tree roots that have infiltrated your pipes. The high-pressure water streams are powerful enough to break down the roots and wash them away, without causing any damage to your pipes or the surrounding area.

Using hydro-jetting to clean your drains and sewer lines can save you time and money by preventing costly repairs in the future. It’s also environmentally friendly, and avoids the use of harsh chemicals that could harm the environment or contaminate your drinking water supply. In addition, hydro jetting is compatible with most pipe materials and is an ideal choice for older homes with cast iron, clay, or Orangeburg pipes. While these types of pipes are inferior to PVC and HDPE, they can still be safely cleaned with hydro jetting.