If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your drain until it’s clogged. And when that happens, it can be a real pain trying to figure out what to do. Should you try to clear the blockage yourself? Or should you call a plumber? When is a clogged drain bad enough to warrant calling in for backup?
At Bacon Plumbing Heating Air Electric we’ve seen it all, from the smallest kitchen sink backups to the most monstrous blockages the Dallas-Fort Worth sewer system has to throw at you. Let’s talk about drain blockages, what causes them, and when to give us a call for help.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
A clogged drain is a common issue for just about every household. While there are a number of ways to clear these clogs, sometimes you need professional help. An experienced plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and get your drain flowing freely again in no time—without causing damage to your drains and pipe systems.
Here are some signs that it’s time to call a plumber.
The Water Isn’t Draining Properly
Standing water is the most obvious sign that you’ve got a problem on your hands. If water is backing up or draining slowly, you likely have a blockage somewhere in your pipes. If the water is not actively overflowing, you may be able to clear the clog yourself. Here are some steps you can take before calling us:
- First, try to flush the clog by adding a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid to a pot of boiling water and slowly adding it to the affected area.
- Examine the strainer or stopper to see if hair and/or soap scum can be removed.
- Gently use an appropriate plunger to try and clear the blockage.
If these steps don’t work, call Bacon right away!
A Bad Smell is Coming From the Drain
Foul odors are often caused by food or other organic matter that has become trapped in the pipes and is starting to decompose. This situation isn’t just unpleasant—it can also be dangerous if the gasses build up over time. In the worst cases, built-up sewer gasses can cause health problems and even explosions within the pipes. If bad smells are coming out of your drains, call Bacon right away!
The Water is Coming Out Dirty or Discolored
If the water coming out of the tap is cloudy or discolored, this could be an indication of a serious problem further down the line. Whether a slow-moving drain accompanies this dirty water or not, it could be an indication of sediment buildup or even sewage leaks. Either way, it’s best to have it checked out by a professional straight away.
The Drain is Making Strange Noises
If you hear gurgling, bubbling, or hissing coming from your drain, it means there is an air bubble trapped in the line. Air bubbles are usually caused by a blockage further down the pipe. Whenever a clog occurs deep within the pipes, you should call an experienced plumber who can clear the blockage quickly, professionally, and with as little mess as possible
To DIY or Not to DIY?
Many people attempt DIY plumbing projects thinking that they will save themselves a lot of money by not calling a professional. However, time and again, we’ve seen these projects end up costing homeowners more in the long run, both in terms of time and money. Small mistakes quickly become big issues that end up costing even more money once they get out of hand. As a result, calling a plumber is usually quicker, cheaper, and safer than trying to fix the problem yourself.
DIY plumbing can also be dangerous, particularly if the person attempting the repairs doesn’t have the necessary experience, tools, or knowledge to do the job just right. Calling a professional plumber is always the best course of action when faced with a drain blockage, piping issue, or any project that involves water and sewer lines.
Do You Have a Clogged Drain? Call in the Professionals!
At Bacon, our plumbers have the extensive training and experience needed to safely and effectively repair damage to pipes, fixtures, and other components of your plumbing system. In addition, we have access to the latest specialized tools and equipment to handle whatever kind of blockage is giving you trouble. From plumber’s augurs to advanced hydro jetting equipment, we have what it takes to get the job done right the first time.
Experienced Plumbers Serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metro Area
Most homeowners will eventually need to call a plumber, whether for a clogged drain or sewer line repair. When that time comes, it’s important to choose a reputable company that will provide quality service at a fair price. That’s why Everyone Loves Bacon! Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies. Ask us about our $99 drain cleaning service and schedule your call today!
