Clogged drains are a pain in the neck. The fumes give off a stench, and it slows down your drainage system. They eventually create further damages when left unattended for a long time. Finding a plumber to help with your blocked drains is very crucial. In this blog, we will find out where to look for a plumber service near me, how to select the best, and what to expect when one hires a plumber for blocked drains.
Understanding Blocked Drains
Before looking for a plumber, let’s briefly understand what causes blocked drains. Some common reasons for blockages include:
- Hair: Strands of hair can build up over time, especially in bathroom sinks and showers.
- Food Waste: In kitchen sinks, food scraps can cause serious clogs.
- Grease: Pouring grease down the drain can lead to sticky blockages that trap other debris.
- Foreign Objects: Small toys, soap, and other items can accidentally fall into drains, causing blockages.
- Tree Roots: In some cases, tree roots can invade underground pipes, leading to significant blockages.
Recognizing these causes will help you take precautionary measures in the future.
Why You Need a Professional Plumber
While minor blockages can be opened using plungers and drain snakes, serious blockages require the services of a professional plumber. Some reasons to hire a plumber include the following:
- Experience: Plumbers have the training and experience to quickly diagnose and fix drain issues.
- Tools: They use specialized equipment, such as drain cameras and high-pressure water jets, to clear blockages effectively.
- Safety: Attempting to fix a severe blockage yourself can lead to damage or injuries. A professional plumber knows how to handle these situations safely.
- Long-term Solutions: A plumber can identify the root cause of the blockage and provide solutions to prevent future issues.
Where to Find Plumbers
Now that you understand the importance of hiring a plumber, let’s look at where to find one.
Online Search
One of the easiest ways to find plumbers is to search online. Here’s how to do it:
- Search Engines: Use search engines like Google. Simply type in “plumber for blocked drains near me” or “emergency plumber for blocked drains.” This will show you local options.
- Review Sites: Websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or Trustpilot provide customer reviews and ratings for local plumbers. Reading reviews can help you gauge the quality of service.
- Social Media: Check local community groups on platforms like Facebook. You can ask for recommendations or read about other people’s experiences with plumbers.
Local Directories
Many local directories list plumbers in your area. Websites like Yellow Pages or local business directories can help you find contact information and customer reviews. These directories often categorize plumbers based on their services, making it easier to find one who specializes in blocked drains.
Recommendations from Friends and Family
Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they have any plumber recommendations. Personal referrals are often the most reliable. People you trust can share their experiences, giving you insights into the plumber’s reliability, professionalism, and effectiveness.
Local Hardware Stores
Many hardware stores and home improvement centers have bulletin boards where local service providers can post advertisements. You can find business cards or flyers for plumbers in your area. Additionally, the staff at these stores often have insights and may recommend reputable plumbers.
Professional Associations
Look for plumbers who are members of professional associations, such as the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) or similar organizations in your country. Membership in these groups often indicates that the plumber adheres to industry standards and practices.
Online Service Platforms
Several online platforms connect you with local service providers. Websites like Thumbtack, HomeAdvisor, or TaskRabbit allow you to post your emergency plumbing services and receive quotes from multiple plumbers. You can compare their qualifications and reviews to choose the best option.
What to Look for in a Plumber
When you find potential plumbers for your blocked drains, consider the following factors:
Licensing and Insurance
Ensure that the plumber is licensed to operate in your area. A valid license indicates that the plumber has met the necessary training and certification requirements. Additionally, check if they have insurance. This protects you from liability in case of accidents or damages during the job.
Experience
Ask about the plumber’s experience with blocked drains specifically. An experienced plumber will have dealt with various types of blockages and will know how to tackle your problem efficiently.
Reviews and References
Read reviews from previous customers to gauge the plumber’s reliability and quality of work. You can also ask for references and contact them to inquire about their experiences.
Pricing
Get estimates from several plumbers before making a decision. Be wary of very low prices, as they may indicate subpar service. Look for a plumber who offers fair pricing and explains the costs upfront.
Warranty or Guarantee
Ask if the plumber offers a warranty or guarantee on their work. This assurance can provide peace of mind, knowing that they will return if the problem persists after their visit.
Availability
Blocked drains can cause significant inconvenience, so find a plumber who can respond quickly. In emergencies, look for a plumber who offers 24/7 service.
What to Expect When You Hire a Plumber
Once you hire a plumber for your blocked drains, here’s what to expect during the process:
Initial Assessment
At this stage, the plumber arrives at your home and takes a look at the condition. He might ask a few questions about the symptoms you have noticed and views the problematic drains.
Diagnosis
Based on the plumber’s equipment and professional experience, an effective diagnosis will be made related to the blockage issue. He can utilize the camera for drain diagnosis in which he visually inspects the pipes and that might help a lot in finding the exact position and nature of blockage.
Treatment Options
The plumber will discuss the treatment options with you after diagnosing the problem. In this case, they are going to explain the procedure, the estimated time, and how much it will cost. This is your only chance to ask questions and clarify things that you may not get.
Clearing the Blockage
Once you agree to the plan, the plumber will begin clearing the blockage. They may use tools such as:
- Plungers: For minor blockages, a plunger can help dislodge the clog.
- Drain Snakes: A drain snake is a flexible tool that can reach deep into pipes to remove blockages.
- Hydro Jetting: For more severe clogs, hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clear debris and buildup from pipes.
Follow-Up
After they have cleared the blockage, as a follow-up, the plumber may give tips on how to maintain the drains so as not to clog them again. He may suggest frequent cleaning or even fix filters in the drain that catch hair and food particles.
Preventing Future Blocked Drains
After fixing clogged drains, it is commendable to try and avoid having to deal with the same in the future. Here are tips:
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning of drains will prevent blockage accumulation. You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep the drains clean.
Use Strainers
Install strainers in your sinks and showers to catch hair, food, and all other debris before they go into the drain.
Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Sink
Dispose of cooking grease in a container, rather than pouring down the drain. Allow it to cool and then dispose of it in the trash.
Be Cautious with What Goes Down the Toilet
There are only two things that should make their way into the toilet when you’re looking to flush something down: toilet paper and human waste. Don’t even think about trying to flush things like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or dental floss.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Schedule regular plumbing maintenance to have a professional inspect your pipes for any potential issues before they become major problems.
Conclusion
Finding an obstructed drain qualified plumber doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Pay attention to online searches, local directories, and word-of-mouth referrals that may assist in your quest for the best plumber. Consider licensing, years of experience, and customer reviews in your decision. For example, once you get a plumber, you will be assured of an effective blocked drains solution by means of proper assessment. You should also be concerned with taking precautionary measures to avoid further issues, thereby ensuring that your plumbing system is functioning effectively. Note that if you take immediate action to handle blocked drains, you may save time, money, and hassle in the future.