5 Reasons You Need More Than a Plunger to Clear Clogged Drains

February 5, 2025
Posted by Ty Gailey
5 Reasons You Need More Than a Plunger to Clear Clogged Drains

Persistent clogs, slow drains, and foul odors often signal bigger plumbing issues. Learn how professional plumbers clear tough clogs fast.

A plunger is a great quick fix for minor drain clogs, but for serious drain blockages, you’ll need professional clogged drain solutions to clear your pipes effectively. As professional plumbers, we use specialized tools – like sewer camera inspections, drain augers, and hydro jetting – to address the root causes of recurring issues. Here are examples of when you might need more than a plunger to clear your drains:

  1. Persistent Clogs: When a Plunger Isn’t Enough
  2. Slow Drains: Why You Need Professional Drain Cleaning
  3. Multiple Clogged Fixtures? It Could Be a Main Sewer Line Backup
  4. Foul Odors from Drains? Sewer Gas Signals a Drain Problem
  5. Recurring Drain Issues? Causes & Long-Term Fixes

Persistent Clogs: When a Plunger Isn’t Enough

If you find yourself plunging the same drain over and over, there could be a more serious blockage in your plumbing system. A plunger can temporarily restore flow, but it won’t remove the buildup that quickly returns, causing repeat clogs. Professional drain cleaning methods—such as hydro jetting or drain augers—clear the entire line, preventing the problem from returning.

Slow Drains: Why You Need Professional Drain Cleaning

A slow-draining sink or tub can indicate buildup inside your pipes that a plunger can’t clear. Over time, grease and grime accumulate inside pipes, creating stubborn blockages that a plunger can’t clear. Hydro jetting and professional drain cleaning services effectively descale pipes and remove debris, restoring full drainage capacity.

Multiple Clogged Fixtures? It Could Be a Main Sewer Line Backup

When more than one fixture is clogged (your toilet, shower, and/or sink) at the same time, it might point to a backup in your main sewer line. Our first step is to clear the blockage and conduct a sewer camera inspection—a process that requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure the problem is fully resolved.

Foul Odors from Drains? Sewer Gas Signals a Drain Problem

Unpleasant smells coming from your drains can indicate a serious issue like a sewer line problem or problem with the venting system in your home. A plumber can perform tests to diagnose and fix the cause of a sewer gas smell.

Recurring Drain Issues? Causes & Long-Term Fixes

Frequent plumbing problems—such as gurgling sounds or slow drains—often indicate more serious underlying issues. These issues may stem from the aging process, tree root infiltration, or undersized or improperly installed drain lines.

If your drains won’t stay clear, don’t wait—a bigger plumbing problem may be developing. Call our professional drain cleaning team today and prevent costly repairs down the road! We save you time and help prevent bigger drain issues from developing. Plumbers can use a variety of tools to accurately diagnose, repair, and restore proper drainage.