Signs of a clogged drain include water draining slowly in your sink and/or tub, water backs up into your sink and/or tub upon flushing the toilet, excessive gurgling in your pipes, and/or foul odors in or around your drains.

You should call a The Plumbing Works professional if your water is draining slowly, water is backing up into your sink and/or tub after flushing the toilet, you hear excessive gurgling in your pipes, and/or you notice a foul odor in or around your drains. If you choose to ignore the clog, sewage could potentially spill out and into your home, leading to expensive cleanup and repairs.

You can attempt to get rid of clogs on your own, but it is a better idea to have an expert plumber from The Plumbing Works clear your drains professionally. Commercial drain cleaners that you can buy at the store can irritate skin and eyes and also potentially damage your drains and pipes. Additionally, most DIY drain cleaners can only be used in sinks or tubs and not in toilets. If you decide to attempt to get rid of any clogs yourself, it will most likely be a temporary solution. Having a licensed plumber from The Plumbing Works professionally clear any clogs you have will ensure the job is done right and will prevent future clogs and additional problems that could arise from trying to get the job done yourself.

The signs of a blocked drain can vary, depending on what type of system you have and where the blockage is. Common signs that you may need to clean your drains include: a slow draining sink or bath, water backing up in the shower or toilet when you flush, bad odors coming from the drain, and gurgling noises when draining water. If you see any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional plumber.

Regularly inspect and clean drains to keep them free of clogs. Inspections should be done on a monthly basis, especially if you have a high-traffic area in the house such as a kitchen or bathroom. Pay close attention to any minor changes in water flow and if you notice any strange smells or sounds coming from the drain, it’s best to act quickly and clean it out.

The amount of time it takes to clear a clogged drain depends on the severity of the blockage and the method being used to clear it. Minor clogs can usually be cleared within an hour or two, while more serious blockages may take longer.