A slow-draining sink or a gurgling toilet can be more than just a minor annoyance; it can be the first sign of a more significant plumbing problem lurking beneath the surface. While many homeowners are comfortable tackling minor clogs with a plunger or a store-bought drain cleaner, some situations require the expertise of a professional. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and a great deal of stress.

This guide will help you understand common sewer and drain issues, identify which problems you can handle yourself, and recognize when it’s time to call in the experts at PG Plumbing, Sewer & Drain. We’ll cover the signs of serious blockages, the risks of DIY fixes, and the benefits of professional service.

The Most Common Drain Problems

Your home’s plumbing system works hard every day, and over time, issues are bound to arise. Understanding the root cause of a problem is the first step toward finding the right solution.

Kitchen Drains

The kitchen sink is a frequent site of blockages. The primary culprits are usually:

• Grease, Fats, and Oils: These substances are liquid when hot but solidify as they cool, coating the inside of your pipes and trapping food particles. Over time, this buildup can create a stubborn clog that’s difficult to remove.
• Food Scraps: Even with a garbage disposal, items like coffee grounds, eggshells, and starchy foods like pasta and rice can accumulate and lead to blockages.
• Soap Scum: Certain types of soap can mix with minerals in the water to form a hard residue, known as soap scum, which narrows the pipes.

Bathroom Drains

In the bathroom, the causes are slightly different but just as troublesome.

• Hair: This is the number one cause of clogs in shower, bathtub, and sink drains. Hair clumps together, mixing with soap and other debris to form a dense blockage.
• Soap and Toothpaste: Similar to the kitchen, residue from soap and toothpaste can build up on pipe walls.
• Foreign Objects: Small items like razor caps, cotton swabs, or children’s toys can easily fall a drain and create an instant obstruction.

Toilets

Toilet clogs are often caused by flushing items that aren’t designed to disintegrate in water. This includes things like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, “flushable” wipes (which often aren’t), and excessive toilet paper.

When DIY Fixes Are an Option

For simple, localized clogs, a do-it-yourself approach can often be effective. If only one fixture in your home is draining slowly, it’s a good indication that the clog is nearby and relatively minor.

Safe DIY Methods

• Plunger: A good old-fashioned plunger is your first line of defense. Ensure you’re using the right type—a flange plunger for toilets and a cup plunger for sinks and tubs. Proper technique, which involves creating a tight seal and using firm, consistent pumps, is key.
• Hot Water and Dish Soap: For greasy kitchen clogs, pouring a mixture of hot (not boiling) water and dish soap can help dissolve the blockage. The soap helps break down the grease, allowing the hot water to flush it away.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: This classic combination creates a chemical reaction that can dislodge minor clogs caused by hair and soap scum. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for at least an hour before flushing with hot water.

The Risks of DIY Drain Cleaning

While DIY methods can be useful, some common approaches carry significant risks. Chemical drain cleaners, for instance, can be highly corrosive. They can damage older PVC or metal pipes, leading to leaks and costly repairs. These chemicals are also hazardous to your health and the environment.

Similarly, using a drain snake or auger without proper training can cause more harm than good. You might push the clog further down the line, making it harder to remove, or even scratch and damage the interior of your pipes.

Signs You Need to Call PG Plumbing, Sewer & Drain

If your DIY efforts fail or you notice more severe symptoms, it’s time to call for professional help. Ignoring these signs can lead to major plumbing emergencies, including sewer backups and burst pipes.

Multiple Drains Are Clogged

If several fixtures in your home—like the toilet, shower, and sink in one bathroom—are all backing up at the same time, the problem is likely in your main sewer line. This is not a DIY job and requires immediate professional attention.

You Hear Gurgling Sounds

When you run water in a sink or flush a toilet, do you hear gurgling noises coming from other drains? This is a classic sign of a blocked sewer line. The sounds are caused by trapped air being forced through the water in your drain traps as it struggles to flow past a blockage.

Water Is Backing Up

A serious red flag is water backing up into a drain. For example, if flushing a toilet causes water to appear in your shower or bathtub, it’s a clear indication that your main sewer line is clogged. This wastewater is unsanitary and poses a health risk.

There’s a Persistent Foul Odor

A lingering smell of sewage in or around your home suggests a problem with your drainage or sewer system. The odor might come from a dried-out P-trap under a sink, but if it’s persistent and widespread, it could signal a blockage or break in the main sewer line.

Why Choose Professional Service?

When you call PG Plumbing, Sewer & Drain, you’re not just getting a quick fix. You’re getting a team of experienced technicians equipped with advanced tools to diagnose and solve your plumbing issues correctly and safely.

• Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We use technology like video camera inspections to pinpoint the exact location and cause of a blockage without any guesswork. This allows for a targeted, effective solution.
• Powerful Equipment: For tough clogs, we utilize hydro-jetting, which uses high-pressure water to scour the inside of your pipes, removing years of accumulated grease, scale, and debris. This method is far more effective and safer for your pipes than chemical cleaners or mechanical snakes.
• Expertise and Experience: Our plumbers have seen it all. They can quickly identify the underlying issue, whether it’s a simple clog, tree root intrusion in your sewer line, or a broken pipe, and recommend the best course of action.
• Peace of Mind: Professional service ensures the job is done right the first time, preventing recurring problems and giving you confidence in your home’s plumbing system.

Your Next Step

PG Plumbing, Sewer & Drain delivers more than just quick fixes — they provide long-term peace of mind through reliable plumbing, sewer, and drain solutions that protect your home’s comfort and efficiency. Don’t let a minor drain issue turn into a major headache. While some problems can be handled with a little DIY spirit, knowing your limits is crucial. If you’re experiencing stubborn clogs, multiple backups, or any of the other warning signs of a serious problem, it’s time to call in the professionals. Contact PG Plumbing, Sewer & Drain today to schedule a service. Our team is ready to provide fast, reliable solutions to keep your home’s plumbing flowing smoothly.