Debunking 8 Common Myths About Blocked Drains

Do you find yourself staring down a stubborn bathtub or sink drain block, armed with a bottle of store-bought drain cleaner and a can-do attitude? We’ve all been there, feeling determined to solve the problem ourselves without calling in a plumber.

But before you go ahead, it’s worth taking a moment to think about whether DIY drain cleaning is really the best approach. Spoiler alert: it often isn’t. Here are six compelling reasons why DIY drain cleaning can do more harm than good and why you should leave it to the professionals.

Debunking the Most Common Blocked Drain Myths

Here is why DIY drain cleaning a terrible idea:

Myth 1. Chemical Drain Cleaners Are a Quick Fix

Chemical drain cleaners might seem like an easy fix, but they’re more trouble than they’re worth. These products are highly corrosive and can cause significant damage to your pipes over time, leading to leaks, corrosion, and expensive repairs.

Additionally, the chemicals used in these cleaners can release toxic fumes, posing health risks to you and your family. The environmental impact is also concerning, as these harsh chemicals can contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife. Instead of relying on chemicals, consider exploring drain cleaning hacks that are safer and more effective.

Myth 2. DIY Drain Cleaning is Very Effective

Many homeowners turn to DIY methods, thinking they’ll save time and money. However, these methods often fail to address the root cause of the block. For example, baking soda and vinegar might work for minor issues, but they’re no match for stubborn blockages caused by grease, hair, or other debris. You might clear part of the block, only for it to reoccur soon after. For persistent issues, check out some clean blocked drains strategies that actually work.

Myth 3. Drain Snakes are Helpful

It’s easy to make matters worse when trying to clear a drain yourself. Tools like plungers or drain snakes without proper knowledge can push the blockage further down the pipe, making it even harder to remove. Worse still, you could accidentally damage your plumbing, leading to more extensive and costly repairs. For instance, improper use of a drain snake can scratch or puncture pipes, causing leaks that require professional repair.

Myth 4. DIY Drain Cleaning Is Safe

Handling chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous. These products are highly corrosive and can cause severe burns if they come into contact with your skin or eyes. Inhaling the fumes can also lead to respiratory issues, particularly in enclosed spaces like bathrooms. Even if you’re using tools instead of chemicals, there’s still a risk of injury. Understanding the drain cleaning myths can help you avoid such dangers.

Myth 5. It Saves Time

What starts as a quick DIY project can easily turn into an all-day affair. When your initial efforts don’t work, you might find yourself spending hours trying different methods, only to be met with frustration and disappointment. The time you spend on DIY drain cleaning could be better spent doing something else, and in the end, you may still need to call in a professional to solve the problem.

Myth 6. You will Not Need Professional Help

Even if you manage to clear the block temporarily, there’s a good chance it will come back. DIY methods often only address the symptoms of a problem, not the underlying cause. When the block returns—often worse than before—you’ll need to call a professional plumber to fix it properly. By then, you may have caused more damage, making the repair job more complex and expensive.

Myth 7. Hot Water Fixes Everything

Many people believe that pouring hot water down a clogged drain will automatically clear the blockage. While hot water can help dissolve minor grease build-ups, it’s often ineffective against more stubborn clogs caused by hair, soap scum, or foreign objects. Moreover, repeatedly pouring boiling water into PVC pipes can weaken or warp them over time, leading to expensive repairs. Instead, rely on proven techniques or professional help for serious clogs.

Myth 8. Blocked Drains Happen Suddenly

It’s a common misconception that blockages appear out of nowhere. In reality, most clogs develop gradually over time as debris like grease, hair, and soap residue accumulate inside your pipes. By the time the drain becomes fully blocked, the problem has likely been building up for weeks or even months. Regular maintenance and early intervention can help prevent these issues from escalating, saving you both time and money in the long run.

DIY vs Professional Cleaning: Which is the Better Choice?

When faced with a blocked drain, the decision between rolling up your sleeves for a DIY fix or calling in a professional plumber can be a tough one. Both approaches have their pros and cons, but knowing when to tackle the issue yourself and when to rely on expert help is crucial.

DIY Drain Cleaning: What You Need to Know

Pros:

• Cost-Effective for Minor Clogs: For small, surface-level clogs, using basic household tools like a plunger or a simple baking soda and vinegar mix can be an inexpensive solution.
• Convenient for Quick Fixes: DIY methods can offer immediate relief for minor issues, like clearing hair from a shower drain.

Cons:

• Limited Effectiveness: DIY solutions often address the symptoms but fail to resolve the root cause of the blockage. For example, a homemade remedy might clear part of the debris but leave underlying grease or hair build-up intact.
• Potential for Damage: Using tools like drain snakes or chemical cleaners incorrectly can cause more harm than good. Pipes can get scratched, punctured, or corroded, leading to costly repairs.
• Time-Consuming: What seems like a quick fix can turn into hours of trial and error, with no guarantee of success.

Professional Drain Cleaning: Why It’s Worth It

Pros:

• Advanced Tools and Techniques: Professionals come equipped with specialised tools like hydro-jetters, inspection cameras, and motorised augers that can tackle even the toughest clogs without harming your pipes.
• Comprehensive Solutions: A plumber can identify the underlying cause of a blockage and provide a long-term fix, ensuring the issue doesn’t reoccur.
• Safety First: With expert knowledge, professionals can clean drains without risking personal injury, exposure to hazardous chemicals, or damage to the plumbing system.

Cons:

• Higher Initial Cost: Professional services may seem costly upfront, but they often save money in the long run by preventing recurring problems or extensive pipe damage.

When to Choose DIY vs Professional Cleaning

• DIY: If the blockage is minor and you’re confident it’s caused by hair, soap scum, or small debris, a DIY approach can be a good first step.
• Professional: For persistent clogs, recurring blockages, unpleasant odours, or signs of pipe damage (like leaks or slow drainage), it’s best to call a plumber. They have the tools and expertise to resolve the issue thoroughly and efficiently.

Why Call a Professional?

When it comes to drain cleaning, hiring a professional plumber is the smart choice. 

Here’s why:

Professionals Have the Right Tools and Equipment

Professional plumbers have access to advanced tools and equipment designed to clear even the toughest blocks without damaging your pipes. From hydro jetting to specialised cameras that can inspect the inside of your pipes, they have the means to diagnose and fix the problem efficiently.

Professionals Have Experience and Expertise

A licensed plumber brings years of training and hands-on experience to the job. They can quickly identify the cause of the blockage and recommend the most effective solution. They can also provide advice on how to prevent future blocks, saving you time and money in the long run.

Professionals Can Provide Long-Term Solutions

Rather than just addressing the immediate problem, a professional plumber can offer long-term solutions to keep your drains clear. This might include regular maintenance, the installation of drain guards, or even upgrading your plumbing to better handle the demands of your household.

Final Thoughts

While the DIY approach might seem appealing, especially for something as seemingly simple as a blocked drain, it’s often not worth the risk. 

DIY drain cleaning can be ineffective, time-consuming, and even dangerous. By calling in a professional plumber, you can ensure the job is done safely and effectively, saving you from potential headaches and costly repairs down the line.

Don’t let a blocked drain become a bigger problem than it needs to be. 

Contact Sewer Surgeon for expert drain cleaning services that get the job done right the first time. Visit Sewer Surgeon today to schedule an appointment and keep your drains flowing smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean my drains? 

While baking soda and vinegar can help with minor blocks, they’re not a long-term solution for serious blockages. They’re also less effective on grease or hair blocks.

What about using a drain snake? 

A drain snake can be effective, but it requires experience and care. Improper use can damage your pipes, making the problem worse.

Should I use a chemical drain cleaner as a last resort? 

Chemical drain cleaners should be avoided whenever possible. They are hazardous to your health, harmful to your plumbing, and damaging to the environment.