Maintaining a healthy sewer system is crucial if you want your home’s plumbing to a) function properly and b) last longer. And one of the best ways to maintain your system is by investing in drain cleaning services. Here’s what you need to know about drain cleaning and how to keep your sewer system in great condition.
What is Drain Cleaning?
Drain cleaning is the process of removing debris, gunk, and other obstructions from drains to ensure efficient water flow. Over time, grease, hair, soap scum, food particles, mineral deposits and other debris can accumulate, causing blockages. Drain cleaning eliminates these clogs, keeping things running and preventing potential sewer backups.
The Difference Between Drain Clearing and Drain Cleaning
While the terms “drain clearing” and “drain cleaning” are often used interchangeably, they do have subtle differences. Drain clearing typically addresses immediate issues, like removing clogs obstructing the drain. This process may involve plungers, drain snakes, or chemical drain cleaners to dislodge debris. On the other hand, drain cleaning encompasses a more long-term approach, using preventive measures (i.e. hydro jetting your pipes) to maintain the health of your drains and prevent future issues.
What Happens During Drain Cleaning?
During a professional drain cleaning service, an experienced plumber or technician employs specialized tools and methods to clear and clean the drains. The process typically starts with an initial inspection to identify the cause of the blockage. Advanced techniques such as video camera inspections are often used to get a clear view of the inside of the pipes.
Once the issue is identified, the plumber will choose the appropriate method to clear the blockage. This can range from using a drain snake to physically remove the obstruction to hydro jetting, which utilizes high-pressure water streams to clean the pipe’s interior thoroughly. The technique employed will depend on the severity of the clogged drain and the type of pipes in your plumbing system.
The Procedure for Cleaning Drains
There are five key steps to the drain cleaning process:
Step 1: Inspection
A professional plumber visually inspects the drains using specialized cameras to identify the cause and location of the blockage.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Method
Your plumber will select the right approach for cleaning your drains based on inspection results.
Step 3: Clearing the Blockage
The chosen method, such as drain snakes or hydro jetting, is then used to remove the clog, allowing proper water flow.
Step 4: Thorough Cleaning
After the blockage is cleared, your technician will clean your drains thoroughly using hydro jetting or other advanced tools to eliminate any remaining build-ups and residue.
Step 5: Preventative Measures
To maintain the health of your drains, the plumber may provide recommendations such as regular maintenance, using drain screens, or adopting drain-friendly habits.
How Often Should Your Drains Be Cleaned?
Drain cleaning frequency depends on several factors. For residential properties, professional drain cleaning services are recommended every one to two years. However, certain circumstances may call for more frequent cleanings, such as older plumbing systems, a history of clogs, tree root ingress and more. Depending on the business, commercial drain cleaning may need to be employed more often (as much as twice a year) to help keep things up and running.
In short, regular sewer inspections and cleaning not only keep your drains free from blockages but also contribute to a healthier and more efficient plumbing system. Remember, investing in routine drain cleaning now can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Are you looking for drain cleaning or drain clearing services in Edmonton? Look no further than CSL Sewer, Edmonton’s #1 Drain Cleaning Service. For more information, contact us today.
