Request a Service
“Would you use a mop to clean a rug or a vacuum to wash a window?” While both tools aim to clean, they serve very different purposes - just like drain cleaning and drain clearing. To some, both might seem similar - but actually, both are very different in almost every term.
Knowing the difference could you know what to do and when! As an old proverb goes, “The devil is in the details,” which means - although clearing and cleaning sound similar - the way it works is completely different.
Drain clearing removes blockages like hair or grease that clog your pipes - which you can DIY at home. Meanwhile, drain cleaning involves a more thorough approach, which addresses buildup on pipe walls to prevent future issues.
But why does this matter? This is because mistaking one for the other could lead to recurring problems or unnecessary expenses. So, in this blog, we have talked about all the differences that will make it easier for you to understand the issue. This will help you call drain cleaning company for the issue you are actually facing - rather than anticipating, “What Is Wrong With My Drains?”
| Get your drains fixed Contact us today! |
Here are some pointers that talk about the major differences between the two -
Drain Cleaning
1. What Is It?
Drain cleaning is the process of clearing out any debris or buildup that has accumulated over time and is restricting the water flow. It involves a comprehensive cleaning procedure that uses chemical cleaners, mechanical augers, and other tools to remove the waste accumulation.
This is the best option for older pipes that get jammed with heavy clogs with those pesky clogging agents. Plumbers use high-pressure water hoses for drain cleaning, which targets the grime and debris attached to the pipe and drain walls. When the gunk, grease, and dirt are all cleaned from the pipe and its wall - any future clogging won’t happen.
Only professional plumbers should handle such cleaning - because DIY-ing buildup or debris cleanup is not advisable. Drain cleaning requires proper tools and expertise - which is available from experienced plumbing companies - hence, the idea of trying to DIY clean your drain is HORRIBLE.
2. Cost Involved
Drain cleaning is a professional-grade solution that ensures your pipes are free of grease that clings to the wall. Hence, the reason is that it is quite expensive. This is because it involves high maintenance techniques like hydro jetting and specialized equipment - that help clean pipe buildup effectively and prevent future clogging.
Well, it might look like a huge investment at first - trust us, it’s the best option for maintaining long-term pipe health. Also, it ensures that you don’t have recurring problems that lead to reinvesting in the drain problems all over again.
3. Methods Used
Here are the methods used in drain cleaning -
- Hydro Jetting: It is a high-pressure water system that thoroughly cleans the inside of pipes. It involves removing grease, debris, and mineral buildup.
- Drain Snaking: It uses motorized or manual augers with rotating blades that clean pipe walls and remove clogs.
- Enzyme-Based Cleaners: Many plumbing companies use eco-friendly biological agents to break down organic buildup.
- Chemical Cleaning: Chemical cleaners dissolve blockages and clean grease or other residues.
- Professional Vacuum Systems: Industrial vacuums remove sediment and sludge from drains.
Drain Clearing
1. What Is It?
Clogged drains are a disaster, which is mainly caused due to hair, grease, oil, and fats. Sometimes, it can also be caused by flushing something other than toilet paper.
So, to ensure the drains are not clear of any clogging and obstructions, a drain-clearing service is required. Plumbers usually use a snake to clear the drain of any cloggings. Though it allows water to start flowing smoothly - it does not fully clear the obstruction.
You can also DIY to clear the drain of clogging using hot water, vinegar, baking soda, and some lime juice. This is the absolute best for new-age plumbing - but it is also considered a short-term answer to a long-term question.
Even after properly clearing the drains, remnants are left behind, building up over time - resulting in future clogs, which can be a calamity. These issues tend to become recurring. Hence, it is advisable to opt for comprehensive drain cleaning.
2. Cost Involved
Drain clearing is a cost-effective solution. This is because they don’t involve the use of high-end tools and techniques to get rid of the clogs. They are best addressing immediate clogs caused by hair, grease, or debris.
While less expensive than cleaning - it does not help in the long term. This is because it might require repeated applications if the underlying buildup isn’t addressed.
3. Methods Used
Here are the methods used from drain clearing -
- Plungers: This is available in any nearby stores. It cleans by creating suction to dislodge blockages in sinks, toilets, or tubs.
- Hand Augers: These are flexible cables that manually remove localized blockages near the drain’s entry point.
- Drain Rods: They are rigid rods that push through clogs in straight pipe sections.
- Compressed Air Devices: They forcefully clear blockages using bursts of air pressure.
- DIY Solutions: Boiling water or a vinegar-and-baking-soda mix loosens minor obstructions - it is considered the best because they are available anytime in your kitchen.
| Facing drain issues? Call us now! |
Table Of Difference: Drain Cleaning And Drain Clearing
Both involve removing dirt, debris, and gunk from the drain - but in different manners. Here’s the table of difference that establishes the difference between the two -
| Feature | Drain Cleaning | Drain Clearing |
| Focus | Removes buildup and debris from the entire pipe | Removes the immediate clog |
| Scope | Addresses the underlying cause of clogs | Addresses the symptom of clogs |
| Long-term impact | Prevents future clogs by maintaining clean pipes | Provides temporary relief but may not prevent future clogs |
| Tools and techniques | Hydro jetting, chemical cleaning, or specialized tools | Plumbing snakes or augers |
| Cost | Generally more expensive due to comprehensive cleaning | Less expensive as it focuses on the immediate problem |
Takeaway
Expert plumbers can differentiate drain clearing and drain cleaning by understanding the scope of the issue. Clearing addresses immediate clogs by removing debris, while cleaning goes deeper, removing buildup on pipe walls to prevent long-term problems.
The difference between the concepts helps you call for the right help. Not only does it help you choose the right solution, but it also saves you time and money. Understanding the term and the method used helps in choosing the right service when needed. Try avoiding DIY drain cleaning methods, as they might turn out as expected and lead to costly repair and replacement later.
Also, it is important to call a professional clogged drain cleaning Services, to get your drain working again. They use advanced tools like hydrojetting, which, as a homeowner, you may often lack.
Choose wisely to keep your drains flowing smoothly!
Get Your Drains Unclogged Efficiently With Preferred Plumbing And Drain!
Preferred Plumbing and Drain is a trusted name when it comes to efficient and affordable plumbing services across Sacramento and nearby areas. No matter if you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, slow drains, or recurring plumbing issues - our licensed and certified technicians use advanced tools like hydro-jetting and video inspections to ensure a lasting solution.
We offer emergency service, transparent pricing, and a customer-first approach. We are also available 24/7 to ensure you do not face plumbing issues in the middle of the night. In addition to plumbing services, we offer water heater repair and maintenance.
Call Preferred Plumbing and Drain for cheap drain cleaning in Sacramento, CA , today!
