Why DIY Drain Cleaning Is A Bad Idea

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Whether it’s an overflowing kitchen sink or a shower drain that begins to back up, we’ve all experienced a clogged drain before. In many cases, these clogs are a simple fix and don’t require the help of a plumber. Many homeowners turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) cleaning methods in a pinch to help remediate the problem. While they’re advertised as a go-to fix, these cleaners end up doing more harm than good and rarely produce real, long-lasting results.

Forget the hassle of trying to fix your clogged shower drain or sink yourself, only for it to come back in a few days. At Quality Plumbing of Gainesville, Inc., our plumbers offer quick, effective solutions so homeowners can get back to their lives. We understand the appeal of DIY drain cleaners, but here are four reasons to ditch DIY and contact our plumbing company to schedule drain cleaning services today!

Exposure To Ineffective & Toxic Chemicals

The classic boiling water trick and store-bought cleaners might be okay for small clogs, but they’re ineffective for any substantial clog and can even be dangerous. Drain cleaners often use harsh chemicals that are not only corrosive but can be toxic. Even after you’ve poured the cleaner down the drain, the chemicals can linger in the air. As a result, anyone who enters the room ingests toxins. Don’t take any chances — get the help of plumbing professionals for your kitchen and bathroom clogs!

Aggravate A Previous Issue

If there is a serious problem with the plumbing, homeowners can magnify the problem by digging around in the pipes. Whether it’s the toilet, mainline, or the main drain, using DIY drain cleaners could turn a small issue into a larger problem if the pipe bursts, a connection is loosened, or a plumbing leak pops up. These issues are much costlier than just contacting a plumber to fix the original clog.

Damage To Pipes

Some drain cleaners contain high concentrations of hydrochloric acid, which is extremely corrosive. While they do break down and remediate a clog, they eat away at pipes and your septic system. Highly acidic drain cleaners also kill important bacteria present in the septic system. These bacteria break down the waste stuck in drains, preventing clogs from occurring in the first place.

Miss The Bigger Problem

For homeowners, it’s difficult to know exactly what’s wrong with your plumbing when a clog occurs. While a clog seems like a black-and-white problem, the underlying issue could be much more severe. The only way to get an accurate picture of what’s going on is by seeking the help of a qualified plumber. We have multiple methods of assessing and fixing clogged drains, so homeowners can rest easy knowing the problem will be fixed quickly and effectively. Contact us today to schedule services or to learn more about all the plumbing services we offer Gainesville residents.