Steps to Take Before a Drain Cleaning Service Arrives

The plumbing system is usually contained within the walls of a house.

The plumbing system is usually contained within the walls of a house. Therefore, it is difficult to determine if pipes have leaks or blockages. Professional drain cleaning is an essential service that maintains plumbing lines by getting rid of any debris in the pipework. Before a drain cleaning service arrives, the homeowner should prepare the pipes.

Here are some steps to get the plumbing ready for professional drain cleaning.

Clear a path

The plumber will require at least 3 feet of space around the drain. Ensure that this area is free of any furniture or equipment. It would help if you also cleared a path from the door to allow easy access to the worksite.

Place drop cloths

Drain cleaning can get messy. In addition to removing anything near the drain, you should also place the drop cloths on surrounding areas. They will soak up any water that spills during the cleaning process and protect nearby surfaces.

Sewage disposal

One of the common reasons for drain cleaning is blocked pipes. It may be that the clogged lines have already caused sewage to back up and spill into the yard. If this is the case, a waste removal company will have to clear away the discharge before professionally cleaning the drain.

Avoid D.I.Y.

A clogged sink can quickly turn messy. With wastewater sloshing about everywhere, it may be tempting to try to repair the damage before the plumber arrives. Pouring chemical drain cleaners down the kitchen sink may seem like a quick fix but could worsen the situation. Chemical drain cleaners are harsh enough to corrode the pipe over time.

An alternative would be to use baking soda. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, and then pour a cup of white vinegar. Place a stopper on the chute and wait for 15 minutes. Remove the plug and pour hot water down the sink. If the clog was large enough to require professional services, the baking soda might not be strong enough to clear away the blockage. However, it may aid in removing enough of the obstruction to make things easier for the plumber when they arrive.

Prepare for more repairs

A backed-up plumbing system could indicate significant damage. Blockages that result in spilling wastewater usually arise from damaged pipes or a fault in the system. The leaks in the line may be the tip of the iceberg. If the drainage problem is large enough to be causing significant spills, then the system may need more repairs than drain cleaning.

Catch the problem early

Problems with the plumbing system can be costly to fix. Damaged pipes are hard to detect, so it is essential to conduct routine maintenance of sewer lines. Calling a drain cleaning service will address the problem of blockages before they destroy the pipes.

Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.