Out of sight, out of mind. You may have heard this adage before, and when it comes to drains, this saying certainly rings true. Our home drains ensure materials, like food and waste, are disposed of safely and efficiently. The team at All Star Plumbing understands that you probably forget about this essential system until you’re faced with a dreaded clog.
If this is you, and you haven’t got a clue whether or not you should call a plumber for a clogged drain, we’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll cover when it’s okay to DIY your drain clog and when you should call the professionals for backup. Keep on reading to learn the five tell-tale signs you should call your trusted local plumber!
So, When Should I Call a Plumber?
If your sink or bathtub suddenly becomes clogged, we understand how tempting it can be to just stick something down there to loosen up whatever dirt or debris has accumulated. But don’t let those intrusive thoughts win! DIY drain cleaning can cost you more money in the long run if you damage your pipes with improper techniques, tools, and products.
And, it’s not always safe to unclog your drain, especially if it’s your kitchen sink. While we’re here, make sure you never—under any circumstances—stick your hand down the drain if there’s a disposal. You’ll probably have much larger problems than a clogged drain if you do.
Anyways, back to drain clogs. So, when should you call a plumber? We’re glad you asked!
Foul or Unusual Odors
If you notice any foul or unusual odors coming from your drain, this may be a sign of built-up food and debris. Not only can this smell quickly overpower your home, but it can also lead to other plumbing problems.
If you notice an odor coming from your drain, you should run hot water down the drain, followed by one cup of baking soda. Then, add two cups of hot vinegar, and wait two hours. If you don’t notice any improvement, we recommend calling professionals to check out the smelly drain.
Strange Noises
Unusual noises like gurgling, bubbling, or hissing may make you feel like you’re about to star in the next blockbuster horror movie. Haunted house or not, these noises can indicate an air bubble trapped in your pipes. Usually, air bubbles occur due to clogs deep within the sewer line and should be examined by a professional plumber.
If your drain isn’t easily unclogged and you still hear strange noises, we recommend calling professionals for backup. When it comes to sewer line repair and replacement, you’d rather be safe than sorry.
Persistent Blockage
If you constantly have to unclog your toilet, kitchen sink, or another spot in your home, this isn’t normal and may be a sign of a more significant plumbing problem. While we can’t help you when your significant other decides to go on a juice cleanse and now the toilet is their self-proclaimed throne, we can help if you notice frequent drain clogs—with or without the juice cleanse.
If you notice clogs occur more often than usual, call the team at All Star Plumbing. We can evaluate the blockage and offer a solution at a fair, affordable price. If you want to schedule service for a drain blockage, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (518) 864-1224.
Critical Area
If you’ve tried our DIY method listed above, and your clog still persists, we recommend dialing the plumbing pros. This is especially important in a critical area of your home, like the main bathroom or kitchen. On the other hand, if the blockage is in your guest bedroom that doesn’t get much usage, your clog probably isn’t an emergency.
If you haven’t had luck with your plunger, ask the professionals for help. Our team at All Star Plumbing uses high-tech, innovative equipment that can get your water flowing fast. Avoid an expensive repair bill and a multitude of headaches by getting ahead of your plumbing problem!
Dirty or Discolored Water
If you’ve got dirty, discolored water coming back up your drain, we understand how unsightly this can be. This mucky water is probably the result of a clog further down your main sewer line, especially if sewage accompanies the water.
All your water lines connect to one main sewer line, and if filthy water is backing up in your kitchen or bathroom, it’s definitely time to call your plumber. If there’s sewage, this is considered an emergency, and you should call All Star Plumbing at (518) 864-1224. If it’s just a backed-up drain, however, it’s not as urgent, but we will still try our best to see you same-day with our drain blockage removal services.
When In Doubt—Call the Plumbing Pros
When draining disaster strikes, don’t fret! We’re here to help. With these tips, we hope your drain is clog-free for the years to come. But if your efforts prove to be futile, don’t hesitate to call the team at All Star Plumbing. We’re happy to tackle simple clogs and more complicated sewer line repairs. No matter what plumbing woe you’re facing, you can count on us to turn your woes into woahs!
Need Help with a Drain Blockage? Contact All Star Plumbing!
Proudly serving Ballston, NY & surrounding areas, All Star Plumbing can help fix all your plumbing woes. From drain clogs to hot water issues, our team of experts can get the job done right—the first time. Call us at (518) 864-1224 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed, insured, and certified professionals.
