Regular drain clearing can extend the life of your pipes by reducing the risk of corrosion and leaks. Clearing can also give you faster and more efficient drainage. While it may seem straightforward, drain clearing is complex, necessitating professional assistance. Here are six risks of clearing your drains by yourself:
1. Chemical Exposure
You’ve likely come across several DIY manuals instructing you on how to clear your drain using commercial drain cleaners from your local supplies store. While commercial drain cleaners can unclog pipes, they’re risky, as some contain corrosive substances like sulfuric acid and lye.
These agents can cause skin irritation or burns if they come into contact with your skin. They can also cause respiratory distress in poorly ventilated areas as they contain potent smells. People with conditions like asthma are especially susceptible to respiratory problems. Hire a professional as they know how to protect themselves when handling chemicals.
2. Contamination and Infection
The substance buildup in drains is unsightly and dangerous. Drains can harbor harmful pathogens because they’re dark and damp. This is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Handling drain blockages without protection can increase your exposure to these microorganisms. Exposure can lead to skin infections or other conditions, especially if you have an open wound or compromised immune system. Protect yourself and your loved ones by leaving this task to the professionals.
3. Physical Injuries
DIY clearing may involve working with tools like plumbing snakes and plungers. While they may appear safer than commercial drain cleaners, they can also cause injuries. They can cause muscle injuries when improperly handled. You need proper training or experience to use these tools appropriately.
Physical injuries can also result from the buildup in your drains. Accidental contact with sharp objects like broken glass can lead to severe cuts that require medical attention. Professionals know how to contain buildup to minimize contact.
4. Pipe Damage
You may inadvertently damage your plumbing system if you attempt to clear your drain without proper training. Aggressively augering your drain snake can cause scratches. This can make your pipes more susceptible to rusting if they’re made of metal and cause fractures or leaks if they’re plastic. The risk of damage is even higher if you’re in an older property, as old pipes are usually already compromised.
You may also hit an elbow in your piping when moving your drain snake, drilling the elbow and causing a larger sewage issue. Repairing such damages can be costly. Save money by contacting a professional from the beginning. They’ll likely assess your pipes beforehand to determine the best clearing techniques to prevent damage.
5. Worsening the Clog
You may move the drain buildup further down your drain if you go the DIY route. Drain snakes have limited lengths, so you may inadvertently push your buildup out of reach. The further the buildup gets in your sewage line, the more likely other pipes in your home will drain slowly. It’ll also be harder to remove the blockage when it’s too far.
Punching a hole that’s too small in your drain pipes may prove ineffective, as water may not get enough room to drain. Even if it does, you may end up with a blockage shortly after your DIY attempt, as the remaining buildup will fill the hole you create. Save time and money by calling a professional drain clearing company instead of attempting to do it yourself.
6. Using the Wrong Tools
Not all products marketed for drain clearing are suitable for use. Some commercial cleaning products contain harsh components that can warp, melt, or corrode your pipes. If the products have caustic elements, they can create a chemical reaction resulting in heat generation.
You may also choose the wrong snake type, causing unwanted damage to your pipes or surrounding elements. Using anything other than a toilet auger when unclogging your toilet drain can damage your toilet, as porcelain is fragile.
Hire a Professional Drain Clearing Service
Drain clearing isn’t always as easy as DIY manuals make it seem. You can cause undue damage to your plumbing system and hurt yourself if you attempt the task without proper training. A professional drain clearing service can save time and money by unclogging your drain properly and efficiently.