Stop Believing These 5 Drain Cleaning Myths

When it comes to different aspects of home maintenance and repairs, there are always a lot of misconceptions that can make things confusing for homeowners. From how things are supposedly supposed to work, to what you should or shouldn’t do when it comes to upkeep—there’s plenty of information out there that may not necessarily be accurate.

To help you maintain your drains properly, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction. Roberts Plumbing Hydro Jet & Rooter, the go-to plumber in Woodland Hills, CA, shares some drain cleaning myths you should break away from.

Myth 1: Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Are Safe for Regular Use

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to rely on store-bought drain cleaners when they encounter a clogged drain. These products are easily accessible and simple to use (how hard can it be to pour some liquid down the drain, right?) and are marketed as a quick and affordable solution. However, the truth is that these cleaners are often made of harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good in the long run.

Don’t get us wrong; these products may provide a temporary fix for minor clogs that are close to the surface. The issue is that they don’t completely remove the blockage, and frequently resorting to them can erode pipes over time. Not to mention the potential harm these chemicals can cause to you and your family if not handled carefully. Instead of relying on store-bought drain cleaners, opt for natural alternatives such as baking soda and vinegar, or call your trusted plumbing company for safe and effective drain cleaning methods.

Myth 2: Boiling Water Can Clear Any Clog

Boiling water is often suggested (we’re looking at you, internet hacks) as a quick fix for problematic drains. The idea is that the hot water will melt whatever is causing the blockage and allow it to flow freely down the drain. However, this is not always a guaranteed solution. While it might work for minor blockages caused by grease or soap scum, it won’t be effective against more stubborn clogs like those caused by hair, food particles, or other solid debris.

Pouring boiling water down the drain can also cause damage if your pipes are made of PVC, as the high temperature can soften or warp the material. It’s essential to recognize that not all clogs can be resolved with a simple home remedy. In many cases, professional plumbing services are necessary to make sure the problem is fully resolved. While boiling water can be part of your drain maintenance routine, it’s not a cure-all.

Myth 3: All Clogs Are the Same

Many people assume that all clogs are the same, but this is far from true. Clogs can vary greatly depending on what’s causing them, where they’re located, and how long they’ve been building up. For example, a clog caused by grease buildup in the kitchen sink is different from a clog caused by tree roots invading your sewer line. Treating every clog the same way can lead to ineffective results and even damage your plumbing.

Take it from our certified technicians: Understanding the nature of the clog is the first step to effectively dealing with it. Not all clogs can be fixed with a plunger or drain cleaner.

Myth 4: DIY Methods Are Always Cheaper and More Effective

There’s a sense of satisfaction that comes with fixing something yourself, and we understand the appeal of DIY solutions. But if the extent of your plumbing knowledge is limited to unclogging drains with a plunger, it’s best to leave more complex issues to the professionals.

DIY methods may seem like a cost-effective solution at first, but if not done correctly or with the right tools and equipment, they can end up costing you more eventually. Most homeowners may go as far as to use improvised tools like wire hangers to try and clear a clog, which can scratch or puncture the pipes in the process.

Save yourself time, money, and potential headaches by calling a licensed plumber to handle your drain cleaning needs. They have the expertise and specialized equipment to effectively diagnose and solve any clog or drainage issue.

Myth 5: Regular Drain Cleaning is Unnecessary

Many homeowners tend to neglect their drains until they experience a significant issue like a complete blockage or sewage backup. FYI: This is not how things should go.

Drain cleaning services are recommended at least once a year to prevent major clogs and keep your pipes in good condition. Regular cleaning and inspections can also help identify potential issues before they become more severe. It’s a small investment that can save you from bigger headaches and more expensive plumbing repairs down the line.

Entrust All Drain Cleaning Concerns to Our Expert Team

Leave all drain cleaning concerns to our capable technicians at Roberts Plumbing Hydro Jet & Rooter. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured company that specializes in drain cleaning services, sewer line repairs, and other plumbing solutions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.