Drain clogs and backups can cause messy, smelly, and downright unsanitary conditions in your home. When you need a drain cleaning service you can rely on to get the job done quickly and effectively, it’s important to know what to look for. Here’s an in-depth guide on choosing the best drain cleaning services for your needs.
Signs You Need a Drain Cleaning Service
How do you know if it’s time to call in a professional drain cleaning service? Here are some common signs your drains need attention:
- Water is draining slowly or not at all
- Gurgling sounds coming from drains
- Bad odors coming from drains
- Sinks, tubs, or showers are slow to drain
- Toilets are backed up
- Puddles of water around drains
- Low spots in yard where water collects
Don’t ignore clogged drains hoping the problem will fix itself. A professional drain cleaning service can quickly clear the blockage before you have a bigger mess on your hands.
Benefits of Hiring Drain Cleaning Professionals
DIY drain cleaning with store-bought products may seem like the cheaper option, but hiring a professional has important benefits:
- Advanced equipment: Professionals have high-powered augers, hydrojetters, and cameras to clear blockages DIY methods can’t tackle.
- Thorough drain inspection: A camera inspection locates the exact source of the clog.
- Preventative maintenance: Technicians can identify and address issues before they escalate into major blockages.
- Expertise: Reputable companies have extensive training and experience to clear any type of drain clog quickly and completely.
The investment is well worth it to keep your drains free-flowing and prevent water damage and mold growth down the line.
What to Look for in a Drain Cleaning Company
With so many drain cleaning services to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Here are the most important factors to consider:
Reputation
- Read reviews on multiple websites like Google and Yelp. Look for long histories of satisfied customers. Beware of companies with no online presence.
- Ask neighbors, friends, and coworkers for referrals to companies they’ve used successfully.
- Check for complaints registered with the BBB. Reputable companies have an A or B rating.
Experience
- Choose an established local company over a regional franchise or DIY rooter service.
- Ask how long technicians have been servicing drains specifically. Look for at least five years of experience.
- Find out if the company handles commercial as well as residential drain cleaning. Commercial experience indicates advanced skills.
Licensing & Insurance
- Verify proper licensure for your state and city. Licensed contractors are professionals.
- Make sure the company carries liability insurance and guarantees their work. This protects you if anything goes wrong.
Services Offered
Look for a full range of drain cleaning services:
- Drain inspections
- Sink, tub, shower, and toilet drain cleaning
- Kitchen and laundry drain cleaning
- Outdoor drain and sewer line cleaning
- CCTV drain line inspections
- Hydrojetting services
- 24/7 emergency drain cleaning
Customer Service
The hallmark of a great drain cleaning company is top-notch customer service:
- Extended customer support hours
- Minimal wait times for appointments
- Clear pricing and payment policies
- Detailed invoices listing all work performed
- Follow-up call after service visit
- Respectful technicians who protect your property
Taking these factors into account will help you identify the most qualified and reputable drain cleaning service for the job.
FAQs About Drain Cleaning Services
How much does a professional drain cleaning service cost?
Costs range from $100 to $500 depending on the type of drain being cleared, complexity of the job, and additional repairs needed. Expect to pay more for emergency after hours service calls.
What methods do they use to clear clogs?
A combination of high-pressure water jetting, rotary blades, and augers are used to break up blockages. Powerful truck mounts generate pressures of up to 5,000 PSI to scour drains.
Do they use dangerous chemicals?
Reputable companies use green, biodegradable products that are safe when properly applied by trained technicians. Avoid caustic chemical drain cleaners.
How can I prevent future clogs?
Regular drain cleaning maintenance every 6-12 months keeps drains clear. Install hair catchers, avoid pouring grease down sinks, and don’t flush wipes or paper towels that can snag on pipes.
Are drain cleaners a DIY job?
Attempting to clear a fully blocked drain yourself risks further damage and costly repairs if pipes get knocked loose. Call the pros to avoid a bigger headache.
How long does drain cleaning take?
A straightforward sink or tub drain takes 30-60 minutes. More extensive drain line cleanouts can take several hours if pipes need to be augered out from rooftop vents.
Conclusion
When faced with a clogged or sluggish drain, don’t reach for the drain cleaner – call a professional drain cleaning service. Advanced hydrojetting methods, cameras to pinpoint problems, and highly trained technicians deliver fast, effective results and prevent future headaches. Look for established local companies with extensive drain cleaning experience, proper licensing, a solid reputation, and top-notch customer service. Investing in professional drain maintenance now saves you bigger hassles and expenses down the road.