Drain Q&A

Slow drains are a common problem, usually caused by a buildup of debris inside the pipes. Over time, substances like hair, soap scum, grease, and food particles accumulate in your drains, restricting the flow of water. In some cases, more serious blockages may result from tree roots infiltrating the pipes or damaging the sewer line.

At Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing, we use advanced tools like video camera inspections to diagnose the cause of slow drains accurately. Once we identify the issue, we can recommend the appropriate solution, whether clearing a minor blockage or performing a more thorough drain cleaning to remove buildup and restore optimal water flow. 

Many people use the terms interchangeably, but there’s an important difference between drain clearing and drain cleaning. Drain clearing is a quick process that involves removing a blockage, typically using a drain snake or auger, to get water flowing again. It’s a great solution for minor clogs or temporary obstructions.

On the other hand, drain cleaning is a more comprehensive service that thoroughly removes all debris, buildup, and obstructions from your pipes. This can involve techniques like hydro-jetting, where high-pressure water is used to clean the interior of the pipes, removing grease, soap scum, and even tree roots.

Drain cleaning is often the best long-term solution for frequent clogs or slow drainage. 

At Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing, we use advanced tools like video camera inspections to diagnose the cause of slow drains accurately. Once we identify the issue, we can recommend the appropriate solution, whether clearing a minor blockage or performing a more thorough drain cleaning to remove buildup and restore optimal water flow. 

When you have a recurring drain problem, it’s important to find the root cause before attempting to fix it. A video camera inspection is one of the most effective tools for this. During a camera inspection, we insert a small, waterproof camera into your pipes, which sends real-time video footage to a monitor. This allows us to see exactly what’s going on inside your plumbing system without the need for digging or guesswork.

With a camera inspection, we can:

• Locate blockages or debris buildup
• Identify cracks, corrosion, or other damage to the pipes
• Detect tree roots that have infiltrated the plumbing system
• Find the cause of recurring issues like slow drains or backups

Once we’ve identified the problem, we can recommend the best course of action, whether it’s a simple drain clearing, more intensive drain cleaning, or pipe repair. 

Hydro-jetting is highly effective for cleaning out stubborn clogs and debris from your pipes. This technique uses high-pressure water jets to blast away buildup, including grease, soap scum, hair, and even tree roots. Hydro-jetting is particularly useful for older plumbing systems that have accumulated years of buildup and properties that experience frequent clogs or backups.

By thoroughly cleaning the interior of your pipes, hydro-jetting restores water flow and helps prevent future clogs. It’s a safe, non-invasive method that leaves your plumbing system in better condition.

While chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, they can do more harm than good in the long run. Many over-the-counter drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can erode your pipes, especially if used frequently or improperly. This can lead to leaks, corrosion, and costly repairs.

At Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing, we recommend avoiding chemical drain cleaners and instead opting for professional drain clearing or cleaning services. Our methods are safer for your pipes and more effective at removing stubborn clogs and preventing future issues.

Preventing clogs starts with being mindful of what you put down your drains. Here are some common items to avoid:

• Grease and cooking oils: These substances solidify in the pipes, causing blockages over time.
• Coffee grounds: While small, coffee grounds tend to clump together and cause blockages.
• Hair: Hair is a common culprit in bathroom drain clogs. Installing a drain cover can help prevent it from going down the drain.
• Food particles: Even with garbage disposal, avoid putting large food particles down the drain, as they can get stuck and cause clogs.
• Flushable wipes: Despite the name, flushable wipes don’t break down easily and can cause major blockages in your plumbing system.

By keeping these items out of your drains, you can reduce the likelihood of clogs and help maintain the health of your plumbing system. 

The frequency of drain cleaning depends on several factors, including the age of your plumbing system, the size of your household, and the types of materials that go down your drains. In general, we recommend scheduling a professional drain cleaning service every 1 to 2 years to keep your pipes clear and prevent major blockages.

However, you may need to schedule cleaning more frequently if you experience frequent clogs, slow drainage, or backups. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your plumbing system and can save you money on costly repairs in the long run. 

Yes! At Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing, we provide drain services for residential properties and light commercial properties with residential-style plumbing systems. This includes businesses such as daycares, doctor’s offices, and other small businesses in Flower Mound, TX.

Whether managing a home or a small business, regular drain maintenance ensures your plumbing system operates efficiently and without interruption. Our experienced team is ready to provide the same care and attention to detail for residential and light commercial clients. 

It’s not always easy to know when to call in a professional for drain services, but some common signs indicate it’s time for expert help:

• Slow-draining sinks, tubs, or showers
• Frequent clogs in the same area
• Water backing up into other drains
• Unpleasant odors coming from your drains
• Gurgling sounds in your pipes or toilets
• Sewage backups or leaks

If you notice any of these issues, it is important to address them as soon as possible to prevent more extensive damage to your plumbing system.