Drain Cleaning vs. Plumbing Repair: What You Need To Know
When your plumbing isn’t working as it should, it can be tough to know what to do. Do you need a drain cleaning service, or is the issue something bigger that requires plumbing repairs? While both services may deal with your pipes, they serve different purposes.
Understanding the difference between the two can help save you time, money and frustration. Let Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer break down what drain cleaning is, how it differs from plumbing repairs and how to know which service you need.
What Is Drain Cleaning?
Drain cleaning is all about keeping your drains clear and preventing clogs. Over time, debris like grease, soap scum, hair and food particles can gather in your pipes, causing slow drainage or full blockages. Clogged drain cleaning services use specialized tools to remove buildup and restore normal water flow.
Clogged Drain Cleaning Methods
Plumbers use a variety of methods to clear out stubborn blockages, including:
- Drain snaking — A flexible metal cable that physically breaks up minor clogs.
- Hydrojetting — High-pressure water that blasts away grease, soap scum and tree roots.
- Enzyme treatments — Natural solutions that help break down organic debris over time.
Regular drain cleaning can prevent serious plumbing problems and keep your system running efficiently.
What Do Drain Plumbers Handle?
Drain plumbers specialize in diagnosing and clearing blockages to ensure wastewater flows properly. If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to call a drain cleaning professional:
- Slow-draining sinks and tubs
- Recurring clogs that keep coming back
- Gurgling noises coming from the drains
- Foul odors caused by buildup in the pipes
Ignoring these signs can lead to larger plumbing issues, so it’s best to tackle them early.
What Is A Plumbing Repair Service?
While drain cleaning is focused on clearing pipes, plumbing repair deals with fixing broken, leaking or malfunctioning components in your plumbing system. A plumbing repair service is necessary when something in your system is damaged, not just clogged.
Common Plumbing Repairs In Denver
Your plumbing is a complex system, and there are many opportunities for damage to develop. Below are some examples of plumbing problems for Denver homes:
- Fixing leaky pipes — Even a small leak can lead to significant water damage.
- Repairing and replacing water heaters — If your water heater isn’t producing hot water, it may need repairs or replacement.
- Addressing low water pressure issues — Low water pressure can indicate a hidden leak or buildup in the pipes.
- Installing new plumbing fixtures — Whether you need a new faucet, toilet or garbage disposal, a plumber can ensure proper installation.
Do You Need Drain Cleaning Or A Repair?
Knowing when to call for clogged drain cleaning versus plumbing repair can save you from unnecessary service calls. Here’s how to decide:
- Call for drain cleaning if — You have a slow or clogged drain, recurring blockages or a gurgling sound coming from the pipes.
- Call for plumbing repair if — You’re dealing with leaking pipes, water damage, low water pressure or a broken fixture.
If you’re unsure, a professional plumber can assess the situation and recommend the right service.
Get the Right Service with Garvin’s Plumbing And Sewer
At Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer, we provide both drain cleaning and plumbing repair services for those in the Denver area. Whether you have a simple clog or a more serious plumbing issue, our experienced team can diagnose and fix the problem.
Need professional plumbing help? Contact us today to schedule your service!
