Sewer & Drain Cleaning Myths You Need To Stop Believing

March 28, 2025

Sewer & Drain Cleaning Myths You Need To Stop Believing

We’ve all heard them—plumbing tips passed down from family, friends, or even the internet. But when it comes to sewer and drain cleaning, many of these so-called “hacks” or “quick fixes” are more myth than reality.

In fact, some of these common misconceptions can actually make things worse, leading to costly repairs, clogged drains, and even serious plumbing damage.

It’s easy to believe that a little hot water or a store-bought cleaner will magically fix a slow drain, but not all solutions are created equal. Some of the most popular DIY tricks may temporarily mask the problem while allowing hidden issues to grow.

And when the real trouble strikes, it’s usually at the worst possible time—a flooded kitchen sink, a backed-up toilet, or even a sewer line emergency.

So how do you separate fact from fiction? Let’s clear up the confusion and debunk some of the most common sewer and drain cleaning myths, with the help of expert plumbing contractors, so you can keep your plumbing in top shape and avoid unnecessary headaches.

Myth #1: Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Are The Best Fix

It’s tempting to reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner when your sink or shower starts draining slowly. These products promise a quick fix, but they often do more harm than good.

The Truth

Most store-bought drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals like sodium hydroxide or sulphuric acid, which can corrode your pipes over time. While they might clear minor clogs, they don’t address the underlying issue. If your pipes have buildup, grease, or tree roots, chemical cleaners won’t do the trick.

What To Do Instead

  • Try using a drain snake or plunger for minor clogs.
  • Use a natural mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
  • For stubborn clogs, call a professional who can use safe and effective methods like hydro jetting.

Myth #2: If Water Is Draining, There’s No Problem

Many homeowners assume that as long as water is going down the drain, everything is fine. But slow drainage or occasional gurgling can indicate a bigger issue.

The Truth

A slow drain is an early warning sign of buildup in your pipes, tree root intrusion, or a developing sewer line problem. Ignoring it could lead to a complete blockage, causing backups and potential flooding in your home.

What to Do Instead

  • Pay attention to gurgling noises or foul odours coming from your drains.
  • If water is draining slowly, don’t wait—schedule a professional sewer and drain cleaning before the issue worsens.
  • Routine maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road.

Myth #3: Running Hot Water Prevents Clogs

We’ve all heard the advice: “Just run hot water down the drain, and you won’t get clogs.” While it sounds logical, it’s not entirely accurate.

The Truth

Hot water can help melt grease temporarily, but once it cools, the grease hardens again—further down your pipes. Over time, this can lead to a significant clog, especially in kitchen drains.

What to Do Instead

  • Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. Instead, let it solidify and dispose of it in the trash.
  • Install a drain strainer to catch food particles before they enter your pipes.
  • Schedule regular drain cleaning services to prevent grease buildup.

Myth #4: DIY Drain Snakes Work Just As Well As Professional Tools

You might think that a store-bought drain snake is just as effective as professional plumbing tools, but that’s rarely the case.

The Truth

While a basic drain snake can remove small clogs close to the drain opening, it won’t reach deeper blockages, grease buildup, or tree roots in your sewer line.

Professional plumbers use advanced tools like high-pressure hydro jetting and motorized augers to fully clear your pipes without damaging them.

What to Do Instead

  • If a plunger or basic snake doesn’t clear the clog, don’t force it—it could damage your pipes.
  • Call a sewer and drain cleaning professional who can safely and effectively remove deep blockages.

Myth #5: Sewer Line Issues Only Happen In Older Homes

Many homeowners believe that sewer line problems are only a concern for older homes. Unfortunately, that’s not true.

The Truth

Newer homes can still experience sewer line issues due to poor installation, shifting soil, and tree root intrusion. Even if your home is just a few years old, tree roots can break into your sewer pipes looking for water, causing serious blockages.

What to Do Instead

  • If you notice multiple drains clogging at the same time, it could indicate a sewer line problem.
  • Consider a camera inspection to check for hidden damage in your pipes.
  • Regular maintenance is essential, regardless of your home’s age.

Why Professional Sewer & Drain Cleaning Matters

Taking care of your plumbing system is crucial to preventing costly damage and ensuring your home runs smoothly. Professional sewer and drain cleaning services provide:

  • Thorough Inspections – Detecting early issues before they escalate.
  • Advanced Equipment – Using tools like hydro jetting for deep cleaning.
  • Long-Term Solutions – Preventing recurring clogs and pipe damage.
  • Safe & Eco-Friendly Methods – Avoiding harsh chemicals that harm pipes and the environment.

If you suspect a sewer or drain problem, don’t wait until it becomes a plumbing disaster. A professional plumber can assess the issue and provide a long-term solution that keeps your home’s drainage system working efficiently.

About Us

At Jack’d Up Plumbing, we specialize in professional sewer and drain cleaning services, helping homeowners keep their plumbing systems in peak condition.

Whether you’re dealing with stubborn clogs, slow drains, or a full sewer line blockage, our expert team is here to help. With years of experience and advanced tools, we ensure your drains run smoothly and efficiently.

For more information, contact us today.