A sewage backup, clogged sink or shower full of water often requires a professional plumber to provide drain cleaning services. You may not always know when a job is do-it-yourself and when to hire a pro. Here's a guide to help you decide when professional cleaning is the best solution.
- Tools. A professional drain cleaning service has access to commercial equipment that homeowners, DIYers and lone plumbers generally don't. A reputable plumber will snake a high-tech video camera throughout the plumbing system and accurately locate the source of the drainage problem. Vet professionals by inquiring about the tools they utilize for diagnosing and remedying plumbing issues.
- Experience. In addition, the pros have experience and training, so they know when to implement solutions without harming the pipes. While access to tools is important, so is knowing how to use those tools. A reputable plumber should have extensive experience implementing various tools and know how to respond to the unique needs of your plumbing system. For instance, home plumbing pipes can vary in size by as much as several inches. Therefore, it's critical that the plumber select tools of the right size for your home's pipes. Ask the plumber about the various scenarios he or she has encountered in the field and why certain solutions or tools are preferred over others.
- Reputation. If you don't already have an established relationship with a plumber, you've likely asked friends and family about their own experiences with drain service professionals. Go a step further and extend your search to include reputable websites and the Better Business Bureau, and ask the company for several valid references.
- Cost. This factor should be the last consideration for a job like drain cleaning. Many new plumbers offer low prices, but that comes at the cost of know-how. An experienced plumber may charge higher prices, but you'll get more value for your dollar. Weigh cost as one among many when considering hiring a drain cleaner, and remember that a plumber who has more experience, better training and state-of-the-art tools may charge more.
Work with a professional to safeguard your home's plumbing system and get the job done right the first time around.