How Often Should Residential Drain Cleaning Be Performed?
This is one of the most common questions we are asked about drain cleaning. Many household maintenance tasks, like HVAC maintenance, must be performed annually. This is only sometimes the case with drain cleaning.
On average, professional drain cleaning should be scheduled once every two (2) to three (3) years.
If your plumbing system is older, or you are dealing with chronic drain and sewer line issues, you may wish to schedule a cleaning more often. That said, most homeowners do not need drain cleaning this often.
How Do I Know I Need Drain Cleaning Services?
If you've never had drain cleaning before, or you aren't sure when it was last performed, there are a few signs you can look out for that indicate that you should call our plumbers.
Signs you need drain cleaning include:
- Slow draining in sinks, bathtubs, or showers
- Frequent clogging in your drains
- Louder than usual gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from your drains
- Unpleasant odors emanating from your drains
- Water backing up in places it shouldn't
- Multiple drains clogging at the same time
Regular cleaning makes your system more efficient and can extend the life of your pipes and sewer line, reduce the risk of leaks, and maintain good water flow.
DIY Tips for Maintaining Your Drains Between Professional Cleanings
Even though we advocate for professional services, there’s a lot you can do to keep your drains fresh between visits:
- Hot or boiling water: Run hot water through the drains after use to keep oils from building up on the interior surfaces of pipes.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Try flushing your drains with baking soda and vinegar to break down clogs and neutralize odors once a week.
- Sink strainers and drain covers: Sink strainers catch food particles and hair; these little heroes can prevent many potential clogs. Use drain covers to prevent fruit flies from breeding in your kitchen drains.
Contact Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing to book drain cleaning services today!