If you’ve ever had a clogged drain, you know the feeling of frustration that comes along with it. Water backs up in the sink or shower; no matter how much you plunge, it just won’t budge. Your next thought is likely to call a professional plumber in Clarksburg, MD, to take care of the problem—but before you do that, you think to yourself, “Maybe I can use a plumber’s snake. I mean, how hard could it be?”
If this sounds like you, we’re here to tell you that using a plumbing snake is not a good idea. This article will explain why you should avoid using a plumbing snake and what you can do instead to clear your clogged drain.
It’s Not as Easy as the Videos Make It Look
The DIY videos make it look like using a plumbing snake is easy. Just insert it into the drain, give it a few twists, and voila! The clog is gone. However, it takes a lot of practice to master the technique. You could worsen the problem or even damage your pipes if you’re not careful. For example, the wire can get tangled or caught on the pipe, requiring a professional to fix it. Therefore, instead of trying to use a plumbing snake yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. There is no shame in admitting that you need a little help with plumbing. After all, even the most experienced professionals had to start somewhere.
You Could Make the Problem Worse
If you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s very easy to make the problem worse when you use a plumbing snake. For example, if you force the snake into a tight bend, you could break the pipe. Or, if you use too much force, you could cause serious damage to your drains. In some cases, this damage can be irreparable, and you may have to replace your entire drain system. When using a plumbing snake, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re not confident using it properly, don’t use it. Just call a professional who can do the job right.
It Can Be Expensive
While buying a plumbing snake might not seem like much at first glance, they can be quite expensive. Depending on the quality of the snake and the length of time you need to use it, the cost can quickly add up. In some cases, hiring a professional plumber in Clarksburg, MD, might be more cost-effective than buying a plumbing snake and trying to fix the problem yourself.
Worse still, if you damage your pipes while using the snake, you could pay even more money to have them repaired or replaced. Considering all these costs can add up quickly and surpass what you could have paid to a professional if you had just called them in the first place.
It Can Be Messy—and Smelly!
Dealing with drains and sewage is not for the faint of heart—or those who are squeamish about getting dirty. If you decide to use a plumber’s snake DIY-style, be prepared for things to get pretty messy and smelly! Not only will you have to deal with dirty water and sludge, but you’ll also have to contend with any unpleasant smells that come along with them. You might be able to tough it out if you’re dealing with a small clog, but if the problem is bigger, you’re in for a real challenge. It’s much better to let a professional plumber take care of it so that you don’t have to deal with the mess—or the smell.
Risk of Injury
One of the most important reasons to avoid using a plumbing snake is the risk of injury. For starters, snakes are very sharp. They’re designed to cut through tough obstructions, which means they can also do serious damage to human flesh. You could easily cut yourself on the snake if you’re not careful. Additionally, they are very long and can be difficult to control.
If you’re not experienced in using one, there is a risk of the plumbing snake getting tangled around your body or striking you with enough force to cause serious injury. When dealing with something as potentially dangerous as a plumbing snake, it’s always best to leave it to a professional plumber.
It Is Time-Consuming
Clearing a drain with a plumbing snake can be very time-consuming, especially if the clog is deep within your plumbing system. This method may sometimes take hours or even days to clear the clog. If you don’t have the time or patience to deal with a plumbing snake, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They’ll be able to clear the clog quickly and efficiently so you can get back to your normal routine.
It’s Just Not Worth the Risk
Using a plumbing snake is not worth the risk. It’s much better to leave it to the professionals who know what they’re doing. Not only will they be able to fix the problem quickly and efficiently, but they’ll also be able to do it without damaging your plumbing system—or putting yourself at risk of injury. So, the next time you’re dealing with a clogged drain, pick up the phone and call a professional plumber in Clarksburg, MD. It’s the best way to ensure the problem is fixed quickly and safely.
We Are the Plumbing Professionals to Call
Clarksburg Plumbing is the company to call if you need a professional plumber to clear a clogged drain. We have the experience and expertise to complete the job quickly and efficiently —without damaging your plumbing system. We also have a wide range of plumbing snakes and other tools that we can use to clear even the most stubborn clogs. We also offer a wide range of other plumbing services, so we can take care of any other problems you might have. So don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Photo By Waraphong Yuhun at Shutterstock