Pro's Guide to Unclogging Clogged Drains: Insights from Skilled Plumbing Technicians

Posted by Croydon Emergency Plumbing on 15 Jun 2025

A functional plumbing system is crucial to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living space. The flushing of toilets, to showering, an efficient plumbing system will ensure that your daily routines are running smoothly.

Drains that are blocked are a typical issue that can cause disruption to the daily routine and cause larger issues if not dealt with promptly. This article will discuss the root causes behind blocked drains, the significance of employing professional plumber and the various methods employed by professional plumbers in order to tackle clogged drains.

Techniques used by professional plumbers

Drain Snakes

The drain snake an instrument employed by plumbers who are professionals to clear drains. It is made up of a long flexible cable that has sharp tips that are inserted through the drain. The cable is then turned, allowing it to grab on and eliminate any obstructions that are obstructing drainage. There are several types of drain snakes, including electric, handheld and closet augers. The benefits of having a drain snake is that it’s cost-effective as well as eco-friendly and efficient.

Hydro-jetting

Hydro-jetting is a method employed by professional plumbers to clean drains with high-pressure water streams. The water is sprayed over the nozzle and hose which allows it to eliminate any buildup, including hair or grease which is blocking the drain. The advantages of hydro-jetting is that it is eco-friendly efficient, effective, and efficient.

Camera Inspection

Camera inspection is a technique employed by professional plumbers to inspect the interior of drains and pipes using a tiny camera connected to a long, flexible cable. The camera broadcasts live video footage to a monitor which allows the plumber to spot any problems like cracks or blockagesthat could be causing the blockage. The advantages of cameras for inspection is that it is non-invasive, efficient, and accurate.

Do-It-Yourself Methods

While do-it-yourself methods for unclogging drains can be tempting, they are not always efficient and could cause more significant issues. A few of the most common DIY methods involve the use of chemical drain cleaners or plungers. But, these chemicals can cause damage to pipes and do more harm than they are worth. Plungers, on the contrary side, can cause clogs to move further down the pipes and cause more serious problems. It is crucial to know when to make an appointment with a professional plumber.

Employing a Professional Plumber

In the case of addressing blocked drains, it’s essential to hire an insured and licensed plumber. When choosing a plumber the most important factors to take into consideration include their expertise, availability, and reputation. In a plumber visit, the plumber will assess the situation and decide on the best course of action to address the clog. They will also give an estimate of costs prior to starting any work.

Conclusion

The maintenance of a functional plumbing system is essential for creating a comfortable and healthy living space. The problem of clogged drains is a common issue that can disrupt the routine of your life and can lead to more significant issues if not addressed immediately. Employing a professional plumber is the most effective method to tackle the issue of blocked drains. Methods such as drain snakes hydro-jetting, and camera inspections are effective and efficient methods used by plumbers who are professionals.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners to unclog my drains?

While chemical drain cleaners might appear tempting, the fact is that they can do more harm than good through causing damage to pipes and more serious problems.

How often do I need to check my drains with an plumber?

It is suggested to inspect your drains by a qualified plumber every one to two years.

What should I do if I’ve got an obstruction in my drain at the middle of the night?

If you experience a blocked drain that isn’t clear by the night, it is best to call a professional plumber who offers 24-hour emergency assistance.

Does hiring an experienced plumber will cost me more money than doing it myself?

Although employing an experienced plumber may seem costly upfront but it could actually save you money over the long term through avoiding the more major issues that can result from the DIY approach.

What can I do if my drain keeps clogging even after the plumber has unclogged it?

If the drain keeps clogging regardless of whether the plumber has cleared it, it may indicate something more serious like corrosion or damage to the pipe. In this situation, it is best to have a professional plumber examine the situation and decide the most effective course of action.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, maintaining the plumbing system in good working order is crucial to maintain the health and comfort of your living space. Although clogged drains are common, it is important to avoid do-it-yourself methods and employ a licensed and insured professional plumber to address the problem. Professional plumbers use various techniques like drain snakes, hydro-jetting, camera inspections and so on, which are effective and efficient methods to address clogged drains. Regular inspections by a skilled plumber will also prevent more significant issues from occurring. When plumbing issues arise, it is always safer to be cautious than being sorry.

Tags: Drains, Plumbing, Tools Categories: Blocked Drains, Plumber