A clogged sewer line is a homeowner’s nightmare. When drains back up and wastewater won’t flow, you need fast, effective clearing to restore function. Some homeowners attempt DIY sewer cleaning methods to save money. However, professional sewer cleaning has major advantages in terms of effectiveness, safety, and long-term prevention.
Let’s compare the pros and cons of handling sewer cleaning yourself versus hiring a professional plumber:
DIY Sewer Cleaning Approaches
Homeowners have several options for trying to unclog sewer lines on their own:
- Chemical Drain Cleaners – Powerful caustic chemicals can help dissolve organic obstructions. However, they risk damaging pipes and are ineffective on major blockages.
- Handheld Drain Augers – Manually snaking a wire cable down pipes may loosen debris, but has limited reach and doesn’t provide scoping of the full line.
- Home Hydro Jetting – Renting pressure drainage jetters seems attractive, but these units lack the high psi and large hoses needed for thorough sewer cleaning.
- Rodding Machines – Attempting to run a rotating sewer rodder cable through drain lines is dangerous for amateurs and unlikely to clear major obstructions.
Pros of DIY Sewer Cleaning:
- Lower upfront cost than professional plumbing service.
- Convenient to attempt a quick fix at home as desired.
- Provides hands-on learning experience about your plumbing drainage system.
Cons of DIY Sewer Cleaning:
- Inability to fully clear blockages deeper in the main sewer line.
- Higher risk of pipe damage from improper equipment usage.
- Exposure to hazardous sewage and chemicals.
- Limited reach for long sewer lines or at difficult angles.
- Lack proper high-flow jetter power and large diameter cables.
- No video inspection capability to scope inside pipes.
- No professional training for safe, effective technique.
- Drain backups recur quickly until pipe issues fully resolved.
Advantages of Professional Sewer Cleaning:
- Powerful high-pressure water jetting to scour the full pipe length.
- Industrial strength electromechanical drain snakes that won’t snap and can overcome major obstructions.
- Video pipe inspection to identify issues and guide clearing.
- Ability to access sewer mains through cleanouts and manholes.
- Locate infiltration points, cracks, bellies, and root intrusions.
- Provide complete cleaning records and photo/video documentation of work.
- Offer long warranties on their sewer service work.
- Able to advise on recommended permanent repairs if present.
- Proper training and experience performing sewer cleaning daily.
Potential Cons of Professional Service:
- Carries a higher price tag for the expertise, equipment and full service.
- Requires making appointment and waiting for a plumber to arrive.
- Locating a highly reviewed, reliable plumbing company takes some research.
Key Considerations on DIY vs Professional Sewer Cleaning:
Extent of Clog
Serious sewer clogs often require more than a basic hand snake to clear fully. Professionals have the right jetters and machines.
Accessibility
DIY options work well for small household drains. Professionals are needed to access main sewers through manholes and cleanouts.
Skill Level
Snaking large sewer lines requires training and experience to be done properly without causing harm.
Cause Identification
Camera scoping during professional drain cleaning helps identify underlying issues to prevent repeat clogging.
Long Term Results
One-time snaking provides temporary relief while professionals can solve root causes with appropriate repairs or replacements.
Cost Considerations
Professional sewer jetting costs more but provides lasting solutions that save money long-term.
In summary, minor household clogs may be tackled DIY, but severe main sewer obstructions call for a professional plumber. While seemingly more expensive upfront, pro sewer cleaning prevents recurring drainage disasters, extensive property damages and emergency costs down the road. For thorough, lasting sewer restoration trust the experts, not DIY uncertainty.
