Blockage from hair and food in a drain is common. In fact, Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year for plumbers due to all the clogged drains. Garbage disposals do a great job of grinding what gets tossed down – however, people often make the mistake of throwing down too much food or stuff that cannot be properly ground. Some small blockages can be easily fixed, but there is a point when professional help is recommended. Consider these reasons to call a plumber.
Black Sludge
Over time, buildup of hair, soap and food will occur in drains. If these drains are not properly maintained, black sludge that contains bacteria will form. These bacteria can pose a serious health hazard, so it is best to call a trusted plumber to take care of the problem.
Water is Leaking in Unwanted Areas
The most common sign that a drain is clogged is water backing up and draining slowly, which is easy to spot. However, other signs include leaking pipes, gurgling sounds and strong odors. It’s safe to use certain drain cleaning products occasionally, but as soon as you notice a pool of water from where it’s not supposed to, call a plumber.
Leaking water can cause a whole host of other problems, such as damaged walls or flooring, which can cost you a lot of money in the long run. A leak can be caused by a multitude of reasons, and it is best left for a professional to diagnose and properly fix.
Blockage in Multiple Drains
If multiple drains are clogged, it’s likely that the clog is stemming from a main drain. If not taken care of immediately from a professional, the drain may collapse and need serious repair or replacement.
At the end of the day, it is best to call a plumber to ensure no further damage is caused. Drain cleaning products are harsh and not recommended to be used frequently. Multiple issues can be causing the blockage, and it often requires certain skills to fix. For questions about drain cleaning services, call the professionals at Mr. Plumber.
