When to Hire a Plumber to Unclog Your Drain

If you notice that your shower drain is running slower than usual or that your sink isn’t draining properly, it may be a good idea to call a plumber. However, a plumbing company may charge a premium for both labor and any parts needed to make a quality drain repair. Therefore, when is it in your best interest to fix a drain yourself versus calling in a professional?

When to Fix a Drain Yourself

It may be possible to fix a slow drain by using gel or concentrated liquid to blast hair or other debris through the pipe. It may also be possible to snake a coat hanger or another piece of wire through the drain and manually break up a clog. Finally, some clogs may be removed by pouring hot water down the drain for about 20 to 30 seconds. In a worst case scenario, none of these techniques work, and you have to call a professional for help fixing the drain. In a best case scenario, the drain is cleared with a minimal investment of time or money.

When to Call a Professional For Help

When water is not going down the drain at all, it may be time to call in a professional. The same may be true if water is overflowing from a sink, toilet or tub. In addition to calling a plumber, it may be necessary to call a water damage specialist to take care of any problems caused by the excess moisture.

How Soon Can a Professional Arrive?

If your tub or sink is not overflowing, it may not be worth it to ask for emergency assistance. Instead, it may be best to make an appointment for the next morning or the next business day. However, if a sink, tub or toilet is overflowing, you need help as soon as possible. The same may be true if the water is dark, thick or has a foul odor.

Don’t Attempt Any Repair That You Can’t Complete Safely

You should never stick your hand down a drain unless you know that you can get it back out. Furthermore, you should never use tools that you are unfamiliar with or can’t use properly. By attempting a repair that you can’t complete in a safe manner, you could find yourself paying a hospital bill on top of money spent on a plumber.

If you have a slow, clogged or damaged drain, you may need the help of a professional plumber. He or she can diagnose and repair the issue in a timely manner no matter when you need help. That can be especially helpful for landlords or others who can’t wait until Monday for quality drain repair. There are more useful resources available at Drain Rescue Plumbers.