Clogged drains can be frustrating, whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up shower, or a completely blocked toilet. Many homeowners try DIY methods like plungers or chemical drain cleaners, but when those don’t work, professional plumbers use specialized tools and techniques to completely clear the blockage without damaging pipes.
At Turner Plumbing, we’ve seen all kinds of tough clogs in Illinois homes. Here’s a look at what professional plumbers use to unclog drains and when you might need expert help.
1. Plungers: The First Line of Defense
A high-quality plunger is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for clearing minor clogs. Plumbers often use:
- Cup plungers for sinks and tubs
- Flange plungers for toilets
- Accordion plungers for extra force in deep clogs
While plungers work well for small blockages, persistent clogs may require more advanced tools.
2. Plumbing Snakes and Drain Augers
For tougher clogs, plumbers use drain snakes or drain augers, which are flexible, coiled tools designed to break through or retrieve debris.
- Handheld drain snakes – Used for minor clogs in sinks, showers, and bathtubs
- Toilet augers – Designed specifically for toilet blockages
- Motorized drain augers – Heavy-duty versions used for deep or stubborn clogs in pipes
A drain snake is far more effective than a store-bought drain cleaner, as it physically removes the clog rather than just softening it.
3. Hydro Jetting: The Power of High-Pressure Water
For serious clogs, including grease buildup, mineral deposits, or tree roots in sewer lines, plumbers use a hydro jetting machine.
How Hydro Jetting Works:
- A specialized nozzle blasts high-pressure water (3,000-4,000 PSI) through pipes
- The force breaks apart grease, sludge, and debris
- Pipes are left completely clean and free of buildup
Hydro jetting is safe for most modern plumbing systems and is a chemical-free solution to clear pipes completely.
4. Drain Cameras for Precise Diagnosis
Sometimes, the cause of a clogged drain isn’t obvious. In these cases, plumbers use a sewer camera inspection to get a real-time view inside the pipes.
- A small, waterproof camera is inserted into the drain
- The plumber identifies the blockage (grease, roots, collapsed pipe, etc.)
- The right unclogging method is chosen based on the exact cause of the clog
This is especially useful for recurrent drain problems that don’t go away with traditional methods.
5. Enzyme Drain Cleaners for Preventative Maintenance
Unlike harsh chemical drain cleaners, professional plumbers may recommend enzyme-based drain cleaners for safe, long-term clog prevention.
Why Enzyme Cleaners Are Better:
- They use natural bacteria to break down organic waste
- They don’t corrode pipes like store-bought chemical cleaners
- They help prevent grease and hair buildup over time
While enzyme cleaners won’t clear a severe clog, they’re a great maintenance solution to keep your drains running smoothly.
6. Sewer Line Rodding for Deep Clogs
For major blockages deep in the plumbing system, plumbers use sewer rodding—a process that involves inserting long, flexible rods into pipes to physically break up clogs.
Sewer rodding is ideal for:
- Tree root intrusions in sewer lines
- Heavy debris clogs in older plumbing systems
- Grease and sludge buildup that hydro jetting can’t easily remove
If you’ve had multiple clogged drains at once, your main sewer line may need rodding to fully clear the blockage.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Some minor clogs can be handled with a plunger or basic drain snake, but if you experience any of the following, it’s time to call a professional:
- Water backing up in multiple drains
- Frequent or recurring clogs
- Foul sewer odors coming from drains
- Gurgling noises when using plumbing fixtures
- Slow drainage in every sink and shower
Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious plumbing problems, including sewer backups or pipe damage.
Need Professional Drain Cleaning in Illinois? Call Turner Plumbing
If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, Turner Plumbing has the expertise and professional tools to get your drains flowing again. We use safe and effective methods, including hydro jetting, drain augers, and camera inspections, to clear any blockage without harming your pipes.
Contact Turner Plumbing today for expert drain cleaning services in Illinois!
