Tag Archives: professional drain cleaning

How to Prevent Grease Build Up in Your Drains: A Comprehensive Guide

prevent grease build up in your drains with these tips.

Grease accumulation in drains can lead to clogs and other plumbing issues, causing inconvenience and costly repairs. Here we will provide you with practical tips and strategies to keep your drains clear and functioning smoothly.

Understanding the Problem

Before we delve into the preventive measures, it’s important to understand why grease build up occurs in drains. When cooking, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) often find their way down the drain. As these substances cool, they solidify and stick to the interior walls of the pipes, eventually causing blockages. This phenomenon is a common issue in both residential and commercial settings.

Now that we have a clear understanding of the problem, let’s explore some effective strategies to prevent grease build up in your drains.

1. Proper Disposal of Fats, Oils, and Grease

One of the primary causes of grease related drain blockages is improper disposal of fats, oils, and grease. Here are some essential tips to follow:

  • Do not pour hot grease, oils, or fats down the drain.
  • Allow grease to cool and solidify before disposing of it.
  • Use a heat-resistant container or can to collect cooled grease.
  • Seal the container tightly and dispose of it in the trash.
  • Consider recycling used cooking oil at designated collection points.

2. Install Grease Traps or Interceptors

In commercial kitchens or food service establishments, installing grease traps or interceptors can be highly beneficial. These devices are designed to intercept and separate FOG from wastewater, preventing it from entering the drainage system. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the traps are essential to ensure their effectiveness.

regular cleaning of drains is a good practice to avoid grease build up.

Baking soda and vinegar can be effective natural alternatives for cleaning and preventing grease build up in drains.

3. Regular Cleaning of Drains

Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule for your drains can go a long way in preventing grease build up. Here’s what you can do:

  • Use a drain cleaner specifically formulated to break down grease.
  • Pour the recommended amount of cleaner into the drain and let it sit for the specified time.
  • Flush the drain with hot water to wash away the dissolved grease.
  • Repeat this process periodically to keep your drains clean and clear.

4. Utilize Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar can be effective natural alternatives for cleaning and preventing grease build up in drains:

  • Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
  • Add 1/2 cup of vinegar and cover the drain immediately.
  • Leave it for around 30 minutes.
  • Flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining residue.

5. Use Drain Screens

Installing drain screens or strainers can help prevent food scraps and other debris from entering your drains. These screens catch solid particles, including grease, allowing water to flow freely. Regularly cleaning the screens is important to maintain their functionality.

6. Educate and Train Household Members or Employees

Proper education and training are crucial to ensure that all household members or employees understand the importance of preventing grease build up in drains. Some key points to focus on include:

  • Informing them about proper disposal methods for fats, oils, and grease.
  • Teaching them how to recognize the signs of a potential grease-related drain blockage.
  • Encouraging them to report any plumbing issues promptly.
  • Promoting teamwork in maintaining clean drains.

7. Seek Professional Help

If you’re experiencing recurring grease related drain issues despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek professional assistance. A licensed plumber can inspect your drainage system, identify the root causes, and provide expert drain cleaning solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Preventing grease build up in your drains is crucial for maintaining a properly functioning plumbing system. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can significantly reduce the risk of clogs and potential plumbing emergencies. Remember, proactive prevention is always better than dealing with the hassle and expense of repairs.

Restoring the Value of Properties for Sale with Professional Drain Cleaning

professional drain cleaning services being applied.

The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning in Restoring Property Value

When it comes to selling a property, there are many factors that can influence its perceived value. From the overall aesthetics to the functionality of various systems, potential buyers take into account every detail before making a decision. One often overlooked aspect is the condition of the drainage system. A clogged or inefficient drain not only creates inconvenience for the occupants but also reflects poorly on the overall condition of the property. In this article, we will discuss the importance of professional drain cleaning in restoring the value of properties for sale.

Why Drainage Matters

Drainage is an essential component of any property’s plumbing system. It is responsible for the removal of waste water from sinks, showers, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures. A properly functioning drainage system ensures that water flows freely and exits the property efficiently. However, over time, drains can become clogged with debris, soap scum, hair, grease, and other substances, leading to a range of issues.

Firstly, clogged drains can cause water to back up, which can result in leaks and water damage. This can lead to costly repairs and renovations for the new property owner. Moreover, water damage can also affect the structural integrity of the property, posing safety risks for the occupants.

Secondly, slow or inefficient drainage can lead to unpleasant odors. Accumulated debris and stagnant water can emit foul smells that are not only off-putting for potential buyers but also indicate poor hygiene and maintenance standards. The presence of unpleasant smells can give the impression that the property has not been properly cared for, leading to a decrease in its perceived value.

Lastly, clogged drains can also attract pests. Standing water and the debris trapped in the drains can serve as breeding grounds for drain flies and other insects. The presence of pests can make potential buyers hesitant about purchasing the property and may require additional pest control measures, further decreasing its value.

The Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

While some property owners may attempt to unclog drains themselves using store-bought drain cleaners or DIY methods, these solutions often provide only temporary relief. Professional drain cleaning, on the other hand, offers long-term benefits that can significantly impact the value of a property.

1. Thorough Removal of Clogs: Professional plumbers utilize specialized tools and equipment to effectively remove debris and clogs from the drainage system. They have the expertise to identify the root cause of blockages and address them properly, ensuring that drains are completely cleared.

2. Improved Drainage Performance: By completely clearing the drains, professional cleaning restores the drainage system to its optimal performance. Water will flow freely and efficiently, reducing the risk of backups, leaks, and potential water damage.

3. Elimination of Unpleasant Odors: Professional drain cleaning not only removes clogs but also eliminates the source of foul odors. By thoroughly cleaning the drains and removing trapped debris, any unpleasant smells associated with clogged drains will be eliminated, creating a more pleasant environment for potential buyers.

4. Prevention of Future Issues: Regular professional drain cleaning can help prevent future drain clogs and backups. By scheduling routine maintenance, property owners can ensure that their drainage system remains in top condition, reducing the risk of costly repairs or emergencies in the future.

a plumber performing a professional drain cleaning.

By scheduling routine maintenance, property owners can ensure that their drainage system remains in top condition, reducing the risk of costly repairs or emergencies in the future.

Choosing the Right Professional Drain Cleaning Service

When it comes to restoring the value of a property through drain cleaning, it is crucial to choose the right professionals for the job. Here are a few factors to consider:

1. Experience and Expertise: Look for a drain cleaning service with extensive experience in the industry. Experienced professionals will be familiar with a wide range of drainage systems and can effectively address various issues.

2. Reputation: Do some research and check reviews and testimonials from previous clients. A reputable drain cleaning service should have a track record of providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction.

3. Range of Services: In addition to drain cleaning, consider a service provider that offers a comprehensive range of plumbing services. This ensures that all your plumbing needs can be addressed by a single provider, saving you time and effort in the long run.

4. Emergency Availability: Plumbing emergencies can occur at any time, so it is important to choose a plumber that offers 24/7 emergency availability. This ensures prompt response and resolution of any urgent drainage issues.

5. Pricing: While cost should not be the sole determining factor, it is important to obtain quotes from different service providers and compare them. Consider the overall value offered by each provider, including their reputation and range of services, before making a decision.

When it comes to selling a property, every detail matters. By ensuring that the drainage system is in optimal condition through professional drain cleaning, property owners can restore the value of their properties and attract potential buyers. With the benefits of improved drainage performance, elimination of unpleasant odors, and prevention of future issues, professional drain cleaning is an investment that pays off both in terms of property value and peace of mind.

Do My Drains Need to Be Professionally Cleaned?

clogged drain that needs professional drain cleaning.

Signs That Your Drains Need to Be Professionally Cleaned

Drains are an essential part of any plumbing system, allowing wastewater to flow out of your home and preventing potential problems like clogs and backups. However, over time, drains can become clogged with debris, grease, and other substances, leading to a range of issues. While some minor drain clogs can be easily resolved with DIY methods, there are instances where it is necessary to call in a professional drain cleaning service. In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate your drains need professional cleaning and why it is important to address these issues promptly.

The Importance of Regular Drain Cleaning

Before discussing the signs that indicate professional drain cleaning is needed, it is important to understand the significance of regular drain cleaning. Many homeowners overlook drain maintenance until they face a major issue, but taking a proactive approach can prevent costly repairs and inconveniences.

Regular drain cleaning helps in:

  • Preventing clogs: Accumulation of debris, grease, hair, soap scum, and other materials can lead to stubborn clogs in your drains. Professional cleaning removes these buildup, reducing the chances of clogs occurring.
  • Improving water flow: Over time, debris and mineral deposits can restrict the flow of water in your drains. Regular cleaning ensures unrestricted water flow, preventing slow draining or standing water issues.
  • Eliminating foul odors: The accumulation of organic matter inside drains can result in unpleasant odors emanating from your plumbing system. Professional drain cleaning helps to eliminate these odors and keep your home smelling fresh.
  • Prolonging drain lifespan: When drains are regularly cleaned, they are less likely to experience major blockages or damages. This can extend the lifespan of your drains, reducing the need for costly replacements.
a sewer line rooter service happening in chicago.

If you notice that your sinks, showers, or tubs are draining slower than usual, it could be a telltale sign of a clogged drain.

Signs Your Drains Need Professional Cleaning

While regular drain maintenance is important, there are specific signs that indicate it is time to call in the professionals to provide a thorough cleaning. These signs include:

1. Slow Draining

If you notice that your sinks, showers, or tubs are draining slower than usual, it could be a telltale sign of a clogged drain. Slow draining indicates that debris or buildup is obstructing the water flow, and it is time to have your drains professionally cleaned.

2. Recurring Clogs

Experiencing frequent clogs in your drains, even after attempting DIY methods to clear them, is a strong indication that there is a deeper problem. Professional drain cleaning can effectively remove stubborn clogs that DIY solutions may not be able to address.

3. Foul Odors

If you detect foul smells coming from your drains, it is likely due to organic matter that has accumulated over time. This buildup can cause bacteria growth and emit unpleasant odors. Professional drain cleaning can remove the source of the odor and leave your drains smelling fresh.

4. Water Backups

One of the most obvious signs that your drains need professional attention is water backups. If water is coming up through your sinks, tubs, or toilets, it indicates a severe blockage further down the drain pipe. Professional plumbers have specialized equipment to locate and remove the blockage, restoring proper drainage.

5. Multiple Clogged Drains

If you have multiple drains in your home that are experiencing slow drainage or clogs simultaneously, it is likely a sign of a larger issue in your main drain line or sewer system. In such cases, professional drain cleaning is essential to address the underlying problem.

a professional plumber in chicago cleaning out a drain.

Professional plumbers not only clean your drains but also have the expertise to identify underlying problems within your plumbing system.

The Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

Now that we have discussed the signs that indicate professional drain cleaning is necessary, let’s explore the benefits of hiring a professional for the job:

1. Effective and Thorough Cleaning

Professional drain cleaning services utilize specialized equipment and techniques to ensure a thorough cleaning of your drains. They have the knowledge and experience to remove even the most stubborn clogs and buildup, ensuring optimal drainage and preventing future issues.

2. Preventative Maintenance

By regularly scheduling professional cleaning, you can prevent major clogs and backups from occurring. Professional plumbers can identify and address potential issues before they become severe, saving you from costly repairs in the long run.

3. Safety and Hygiene

When drain blockages occur, they can result in unsanitary conditions and potential health hazards. Professional drain cleaning helps to maintain a hygienic environment in your home, eliminating bacteria, odors, and the risk of sewage backups.

4. Expert Diagnosis of Underlying Issues

Professional plumbers not only clean your drains but also have the expertise to identify underlying problems within your plumbing system. This includes issues like tree root intrusion, cracked pipes, or improper installation. Timely detection of these issues can prevent further damage and ensure proper functioning of your drains.

In Summary

Regular drain cleaning is essential to maintain the efficiency and longevity of your plumbing system. Signs such as slow draining, recurring clogs, foul odors, water backups, and multiple clogged drains indicate that it is time to seek professional drain cleaning services. By hiring professionals, you can benefit from their expertise, ensure thorough cleaning, prevent future problems, and maintain a safe and hygienic environment in your home. Don’t wait until you encounter a major plumbing issue – take proactive measures to keep your drains clean and functional.

5 Reasons to Call a Professional Plumber for Drain Cleaning

a drain cleaning plumber in chicago

So, you think something inside your drain obstructs the channel and would like to clear it out. But how are you going to do that? What is the best way to clean your drains? Should you do it yourself or hire a professional plumber?

Doing it yourself typically means using a chemical drain cleaner. But while this is a quick method to get water flowing through the drains again, there are good reasons why it is not a good option, warns Rent Appeal, especially if you consider the long-term impact of this solution.

Most homeowners use chemical drain cleaners because they think they save time and money. But the sad truth is that chemical drain cleaners do not save you money. Using them in your drains will cost you more money in the future.

How is that?

Why you should never use chemical drain cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners contain corrosives, principally sulfuric acid and caustic soda.  These chemicals are so corrosive that after about five seconds of being inside your drains, they will not only start to eat away at the debris inside the pipes but also corrode them.

But the damage to your plumbing is not immediately evident when you use a chemical drain cleaner. That’s because drain cleaners thin out the pipes, making your plumbing fragile, more susceptible to leaks, and exposing your home to a greater risk of water damage.

The other reason not to use chemical drain cleaners is for personal safety. When using drain cleaners, you must wear rubber gloves and protective goggles. Additionally, you must pour the chemical very slowly because if it splashes on your skin, it will cause burns.

However, even if you succeed in pouring a drain cleaner into your drain without getting it on your skin or your eyes, drain cleaners sit inside your drain pipes for a long time. If the drain cleaner inside the pipe mixes with other cleaners, it can release deadly gases into your home.

So, if drain cleaners are harmful, what is the alternative?

You can buy a hand auger or plunger for nearly the same amount you pay for a chemical drain cleaner. These effectively remove clogs near the drain opening and can be used repeatedly. There are also lots of natural drain cleaning methods you can use.

But these methods do not address the root cause of the clogs in your drains. They only work as short-term fixes. The best long-term solution for keeping your drains in good condition is to hire a professional plumber. Why should you take this option?

Benefits of hiring a professional plumber

Solve problems effectively

Unlike when homeowners try to solve issues in their plumbing, a professional plumber does not just focus on the symptoms of the problem. A professional plumber will find the root cause of the problem by way of a sewer camera inspection.

Also, unlike chemical drain cleaners, which do not distinguish between the debris inside the pipes and the PVC, metal, or enamel of your plumbing, the professional plumber can pinpoint the cause of the problem and solve it effectively.

They can educate you

Most blockages inside your drains are caused by the improper use of the drains, such as when you flush fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) into the drain or misuse of the garbage disposal. 

A professional plumber can prevent future problems by identifying behaviors contributing to your plumbing issues. They can give you advice that will help you avoid future problems and save costs.

Detect problems early

Most plumbing problems start as minor issues with early warning signs of the impending catastrophe. Blockages happen when those initial signs are overlooked. A professional plumber can save you money by catching problems at the beginning stages and solving them before they become significant costs; instead of compounding your plumbing issues, as chemical drain cleaners would, professional plumbers help you avoid problems.

Routine maintenance

A local plumber can help you do routine maintenance of your plumbing. Rather than wait for problems to happen before you pay attention to your drains, regular maintenance of the system will prevent issues. 

For instance, a camera inspection of your drains does not cost much, but this simple step will save you the thousands of dollars you would have spent to fix damage caused by a sewer backup.

Professional advice

A professional plumber will help you keep your plumbing up to date. From information about new regulations to innovative plumbing products that have just entered the market, your plumber is more in touch with the industry. 

They can ensure that instead of merely spending money to keep the system running, you can invest your money to improve your plumbing system. A professional plumber can help you build a resilient system with fewer problems and lower costs.

To sum up, why should you call a plumber for drain cleaning services? The straightforward answer is that only a professional plumber can clear the debris inside your drains. Chemical drain cleaners and other methods will not do it.

DIY Drain Cleaning and Why It Can Be a Bad Idea

a women trying to unclog her drain

Slow or blocked drains are common issues every homeowner experiences with their home’s plumbing from time to time. Due to how often we use them and what we use them for, toilet, bathroom, and kitchen drains are always at risk of getting blocked.

When this happens, it is normal that you will want to cut costs by trying to fix the problem yourself. Like most homeowners, says DRP Management, you will reach for a drain snake, plunger, chemical drain cleaner, vinegar, or baking soda, each time your drains show signs of trouble.

But do DIY drain cleaning solutions work? Are you really saving money when you use them? What is their long-term impact on the health of your drains? Is there a right time to use DIY drain cleaning methods, and what are their limitations? This post answers those questions.

Common DIY drain cleaning methods and why they can be a bad idea

The most common do-it-yourself methods for clearing clogs and blockages from your drains are:

  • Handheld drain snakes
  • Plungers 
  • Baking soda, vinegar, salt, and boiling water
  • Chemical drain cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are easily the worst things you can pour into your drains. While they may clear your drains, they do so at a huge cost. Chemical drain cleaners have acids in them. These acids do not discriminate between the material blocking the pipe and the pipe itself.

Chemical drain cleaners not only shorten the lifespan of your pipes, but they also harm the environment. The acids in chemical drain cleaners will not only dissolve the clogs inside your drain but corrode your pipes and eventually find their way into the soil, which will leach into groundwater.

The other DIY drain cleaning methods in this list are only suitable for removing clogs close to the drain opening. If the material blocking your drainpipe is further inside the pipe, removing it with the above drain cleaning methods is often impossible.

Baking soda, plungers, salt, vinegar, and hot water are only useful when you have an emergency. Because they do not actually remove the material blocking the pipe but merely push it further down the pipe, they cannot be used as a long-term fix.

But if you do not understand these DIY drain cleaning methods and use them as your go-to solution for drain issues, you can expect the following problems.

The trouble with DIY drain cleaning

Health and environmental issues

In addition to the harm they do to your drainpipes, chemical drain cleaners are also dangerous to your health. The toxic compounds inside drain cleaners linger in the air after the cleaner is flushed into the drain. They may eventually end up inside the lungs and stomachs of humans and pets.

Furthermore, using chemical drain cleaners is almost the same as putting poison in your drinking water. These harmful substances flow from your drain into the city sewer system and finally into the water bodies that feed the natural systems where we get our drinking water.

DIY solutions ignore the root cause

When you hire a professional plumber to solve a drain problem in your home, that plumber adopts a holistic approach, including the entire plumbing system and how you use them. 

This ensures that whatever solutions they employ for the issues will have a lasting effect. Conversely, DIY drain cleaning solutions are temporary fixes that do not address your drain problem’s underlying cause. 

Your drain problems never go away

DIY drain cleaning methods only worsen the issues with your drains. Unlike when you use a professional plumber, DIY drain cleaning does not highlight the things you are doing that may hurt your drains. They also don’t altogether remove the offensive materials inside the drains. The result is that those drain problems only worsen with time until they do massive damage that will cost a ton of money to fix.

You can’t do preventive maintenance with DIY drain cleaning

With DIY drain cleaning, you must wait until there is an issue with your drains before you take action. These solutions lock you into a reactive mindset where you are always one step behind the problems with your plumbing. 

A professional plumber, on the other hand, can help you create a preventive maintenance program that will let you avoid major issues with your drains, prolong the life of your plumbing and help you save money in the long run.

Save money and time

Hiring a professional plumber to solve the issues with your plumbing can help you save time and money. A professional plumber will find and solve those issues in a fraction of the time it takes you to find them. 

Furthermore, when selling your home, the fact that your plumbing is managed by a professional makes much difference. Buyers have more confidence when the systems are under the care of an expert, and they are often willing to pay you more for the peace of mind that comes with that knowledge.