When To Call A Drain Cleaning Service

DIY or Pro, When to Call a Drain Cleaning Service

Clogged drains can disrupt your day and lead to expensive repairs if left untreated. While many Michigan homeowners try DIY methods first, not every clog can or should be handled without professional help. Knowing when to call a professional plumber helps you avoid damage, protect your home, and maintain proper water flow. This guide explains when a quick fix is safe and when it’s time to contact Drain Detectives, Metro Detroit’s trusted drain cleaning company.

Drain Detectives provides professional drain cleaning, hydro jetting, and sewer camera inspection services across Macomb, Oakland, and St. Clair Counties. We use industry-grade tools and local expertise to diagnose and clear any type of blockage, from simple kitchen clogs to main sewer backups.

When DIY Makes Sense

For minor clogs, a few simple at-home steps can clear the line and prevent buildup. These small efforts also help reduce wear on your plumbing system.

Use drain strainers in sinks and tubs to catch hair and debris.
Wipe grease and food scraps into the trash before washing dishes.
Use a plunger for a single clogged sink or tub drain.
Clean visible traps and stoppers monthly.
Flush your drains regularly with hot water and dish soap to remove oils.

Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Many store-bought drain cleaners use corrosive chemicals that can weaken or crack PVC and metal pipes. If your drain is completely blocked, these chemicals can pool in one area, creating health hazards and making professional work more dangerous. The EPA identifies fats, oils, and grease (FOG) as major contributors to household drain blockages. For safety and long-term maintenance, skip chemical solutions and schedule professional cleaning if plunging fails.

When to Call a Professional

If you experience any of these issues, a more serious blockage may exist in your home’s main line or secondary drains. These require professional tools and diagnostic cameras.

Multiple fixtures are draining slowly at the same time.
Water backs up from a floor drain or laundry area.
The toilet bubbles when another drain is used.
Persistent sewer smells inside the home.
Frequent clogs that return soon after clearing.

These symptoms often indicate a deeper obstruction, such as grease buildup or tree root intrusion. Our sewer camera inspections can pinpoint exactly where the problem lies, and our hydro jetting services clear the line completely using high-pressure water.

What a Professional Service Does Differently

A professional plumber doesn’t rely on guesswork. Drain Detectives uses advanced technology and proven techniques to solve the issue the right way the first time.

Inspection: We identify the source of the blockage using video cameras.
Right method: We use snaking for minor obstructions and hydro jetting for severe buildup or roots.
Verification: We confirm full clearance and show before-and-after footage.
Prevention: We recommend maintenance schedules for older systems or high-use households.

Our blog on why regular drain cleaning is essential in Macomb and Oakland County explains how annual maintenance helps avoid backups and protects your investment.

Preventative Maintenance for Metro Detroit Homes

Have drains inspected annually if your home is older than 30 years.
Install a cleanout if one isn’t available to make future service easier.
Keep trees and shrubs away from sewer lines. Learn more from MSU Extension.
Never flush wipes or hygiene products, even if labeled “flushable.”
Run water after each use of the garbage disposal to move waste through the line.

Trusted Local Drain Cleaning Across Metro Detroit

Drain Detectives provides 24-hour emergency service throughout Macomb County, Oakland County, and St. Clair County. Whether you need hydro jetting, video inspection, or complete line replacement, our team has the tools and experience to get your system flowing again fast.