Drain Clearing VS Drain Cleaning
Ever had a sink that won’t drain or a shower that’s turning into a mini-pool? We’ve all been there. Those drain clogs are a pain. They can disrupt our daily routines and be really annoying. But this is not all. Ignoring them can lead to seriously stinky situations, including bigger plumbing problems. Over time, these clogs can cause backups, unpleasant odors, and even water damage.
However, when you act quickly and tackle the issues head-on, you are most certain to keep your plumbing in good shape and prevent bigger problems from popping up. By the way, if you need help, our Dependaworthy Benjamin Franklin Plumbing team is ready to handle any any drain clearing, with our repair trucks ready to roll and respond whenever you need us.
First, let’s break down the difference between drain clearing and drain cleaning. We know they sound similar, but there’s a big difference.
What Is Drain Clearing?
Drain clearing is like giving your pipes a quick fix. It basically involves removing whatever is blocking the water from flowing smoothly. We usually use tools like a plumbing snake or auger to break up the blockage or push it through the pipe.
It’s a quick and effective process, allowing water to pass through the pipes once again, but there is a catch. It might not get rid of all the gunk in your pipes.
This means that, although water can flow freely again, there may still be residue in the pipe that could lead to another clog in the future. In other words, it is a temporary solution that tackles the immediate problem without entirely removing the root problem (or the buildup).
What Is Drain Cleaning?
On the other hand, drain cleaning is the deep clean your pipes dream about, as it takes things a step further. We’re talking about scrubbing your pipes from the inside out, thoroughly cleaning, not just addressing the specific blockage.
One of the most common methods used in drain cleaning is high-pressure water jetting. This method is like giving your pipes a power wash, blasting away all the buildup on the walls. It is more comprehensive and helps prevent future clogs by removing materials that can cause blockages over time.
Since drain cleaning is more thorough than clearing, it helps keep the plumbing system in good condition for longer periods. Also, It may cost a bit more, but it’s like an investment in your pipes’ future, reducing the chances of frequent repairs and maintaining better overall pipe health.
Difference Between Drain Clearing and Drain Cleaning
Though drain clearing and cleaning are often confused, they serve different purposes. So, when should you choose one over the other?
Drain clearing is a quicker solution that focuses on getting rid of a single blockage. It’s ideal for resolving immediate clogs and restoring water flow quickly. However, keep in mind that this method doesn’t address the buildup that caused the clog in the first place.
Drain cleaning, on the other hand, offers a more complete solution by removing all the debris and buildup inside the pipe. This method helps prevent future clogs, keeping your plumbing system cleaner and functioning better over time.
In a nutshell, clearing is a short-term fix, while cleaning offers long-term benefits by addressing the root cause of clogs.
When to Choose Drain Clearing vs. Drain Cleaning
Deciding between drain clearing and cleaning depends on the specific issue. If you have single, isolated clogs that haven’t caused repeated problems, drain clearing might do the trick. For example, you’ve got a one-time clog caused by your kid’s toy or a clump of hair.
However, if you’re dealing with slow drains all over the house or there’s a funky smell coming from your sink, it might be time for a thorough cleaning. Drain cleaning can remove the buildup inside your pipes, reducing the chance of ongoing issues.
Calling a highly skilled plumber, such as our techs at Benjamin Franklyn, is the best way to find the right service for your situation. Our team can assess the clog and provide the best solution based on the severity of the problem.
How to Effectively Clear Drains
Can you fix the issue yourself? For minor clogs, sure. You can try simple methods at home, such as running hot water down the drain or mixing vinegar and baking soda to help break up some blockages. These solutions are helpful for clogs caused by grease or soap scum buildup.
For tougher clogs, it’s best to call in the pros, as they use tools like augers or snakes to clear the blockage. These tools are made to either break up the clog or pull it out of the pipe. If the clog is deep in your plumbing system or the plumbers find multiple blockages, they need more advanced methods to take care of the issue.
Also, keep in mind that multiple clogs could be a sign of a larger issue with your plumbing, such as a blockage deeper in the system or even damaged pipes. In these cases, you may need to invest in a thorough cleaning or more extensive repairs to resolve the problem once and for all.
Still Confused Between Drain Clearing and Cleaning? Time for Dependaworthy
At the end of the day, keeping your drains clear and functional is key for a healthy plumbing system. Without any doubt, when you grasp the difference between drain clearing and cleaning, it helps you make informed decisions about your plumbing needs.
Here at Dependaworthy Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we’re always ready to help with any drain-related issue, whether a quick clearing or a deep clean. We’re available around the clock because, let’s face it, clogs don’t care about your schedule.
So if you are in the Charlotte area, the next time your drains are giving you grief, reach out to us for reliable and prompt drain clearing and cleaning services. We’ll have your pipes singing in no time!
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