Slow or clogged drains are among the most common plumbing problems that you will encounter in your lifetime. Thankfully, this common plumbing problem can often be dealt with rather quickly on a do-it-yourself basis. In fact, all you will need to clear most drain clogs is an inexpensive plunger. However, this is not always the case. In some instances, a clogged or slow-moving drain will actually be cause for concern and will require the professional services of a plumber. Below you will learn more about the times when you should abandon your do-it-yourself efforts and turn to a professional plumber for help.
An Object Is Stuck In Your Pipe
If you are the parent of a young child, you may have already experienced this particular plumbing problem as young children are especially prone to flushing toys down the toilet or other drains. While it can be tempting to try and remove these objects on your own, this is a task that is best left to the professionals if you are not able to easily grab the item with your hand and remove it from the drain. This is because using drain snakes and other plumbing equipment in order to try and remove foreign objects from your pipes can actually result in significant pipe damage if not done correctly.
Multiple Drains Are Involved
Drain clogs that are caused by basic buildup inside the drainage pipe will only impact a single drain. If you are experiencing slow or clogged drains in more than one location throughout your home, this could point to a far more serious issue such as tree roots growing into your drainage pipes. If your home makes use of a septic tank rather than a public waste system, this could also point to the need to have your septic tank pumped. Contacting a plumber as soon as possible will be your best option for resolving this type of systemic issue rather than trying to tackle each drain individually which will likely produce either no result or temporary results.
You Have Already Tried Chemical Solutions
If you have already tried chemical solutions, such as drain cleaners, to try and resolve the issues with your drain, you will need to contact a plumber if the issue has not been resolved. This is extremely important since these corrosive chemicals will remain in your pipe until the clog is cleared and can potentially damage the pipe after prolonged exposure. Further attempts to plunge the clogged drain after the ineffective use of chemicals can also cause damage to your plumbing system.
