We often overlook drain cleaning until the water starts to back up in our sinks. Professionals recommend having your home’s drains cleaned annually to prevent clogs, reduce buildup, and maintain a smooth-running plumbing system. However, some homes might require frequent cleaning.
In this blog, we’ll explore how often you should clean your drains and the factors that affect this timeline!
What Does Professional Drain Cleaning Involve?
Professional drain cleaning is a comprehensive plumbing procedure that deep cleans your drains. Typically, it begins with an inspection. Professionals use a camera to locate the clog and identify the cause, such as grease, hair, or tree roots.
Once the clog is located, the plumber will select from manual, motorized, and hydro jetting cleaning depending on the severity and location. After the cleaning, a final inspection ensures that the blockage is gone and water is flowing smoothly again.
Drain Cleaning In Residential and Commercial Spaces
The need for professional drain cleaning might be influenced by space needs. For residential homes, it is recommended to hire professionals at least once a year. However, household size and usage might affect this time. Kitchen drains, which often collect grease and food particles, may need cleaning every 4 to 6 months, whereas bathroom drains can remain clean for over a year.
In commercial properties, where drains are used more heavily and handle a wider range of waste, cleanings are needed more often, typically every 3 to 6 months. High-traffic places like restaurants, hospitals, or food businesses may even need monthly or quarterly cleanings,
Recommended Frequency of Professional Drain Cleaning
It is recommended that you clean your drains professionally at least once a year. However, this frequency may change based on several factors discussed below:
- Household Size
If many people live in your home and frequently use the sinks, showers, and toilets, buildup can occur more quickly. In this case, cleaning your drains every 6 to 12 months is recommended. - Type of Waste
If you often pour grease, food, coffee grounds, or soap down the drain, clogs can happen more quickly. This may require scheduling professional drain cleaning services every few months. - Tree Roots
If you have large trees near your home, their roots can grow into your underground pipes, causing blockages. Getting a professional cleaning every 6 months can help prevent serious plumbing problems. - Older Pipes
Older pipes are highly susceptible to build-up, rust, or damage, implying that you might need frequent maintenance in the form of drain cleaning. - Frequent Clogs or Slow Drains
If your drains are often slow or clog repeatedly, it’s a sign they need attention. In these cases, cleaning every few months may be needed.
Final Word
How often you should get your drains cleaned professionally depends majorly on space needs, household size, type of waste, tree roots, age of pipes, and frequency of clogs or slow drains. However, professionals recommend that you hire drain cleaning services at least once every year.
If you suspect a clogged drain, call our expert team at Santana Bros Plumbing for prompt diagnosis and resolution. Schedule a visit at (713) 494-5504.