The most common signs of a clogged drain include,

• Unusual sounds from the drains
• Slow drainage
• Unpleasant odor
• Standing water near the sink, drain, or washing machine
• Water backing up from the toilet, sink, shower, or bathtub
• Unexplained puddles in the yard
• Overflowing toilet

Chemical drain cleaners can severely damage the plumbing system. Several property owners turn to chemical cleaners to clear a clogged drain, but it is always a big NO. Chemical drain cleaners are highly acidic. They are hazardous for your and your plumbing system’s health and can result in corrosion, damage, and premature pipe replacement. Using chemical drain cleaners regularly costs much more than hiring a professional drain cleaning service.

Several factors can contribute to drain clogs. The most common causes of clogged drains are:

• Mineral build-up
• Tree roots
• Soap scum
• Fat, oil, and grease (FOG)
• Cat litter
• Hair
• Food debris
• Feminine hygiene products
• Flushable wipes
• Undersized pipes

It is a common misconception that the drains should only be cleaned when they are clogged. As a part of routine plumbing maintenance, it is advised to schedule a professional drain cleaning service once a year and more frequently if the pipes are significantly old. Even if your drains do not exhibit any signs of clogs or other damage, regular professional cleaning will ensure the drains remain clean and eliminate the possibility of severe clogs.

It is possible to get rid of minor clogs using tools like a plunger, auger, or drain snake. However, it is best to call a drain cleaning professional if your drains get clogged frequently, and these popular tools fail to address the issue. They can efficiently handle any clogs in the residential or commercial plumbing system. 

A sewer line repair is usually recommended if there are cracks, holes, or minor damage in the drain or sewer line. Replacement is a better option when sewer lines are old or extensively damaged. A professional can inspect the pipes to trace the root cause of the problem and assess the extent of damage to determine which will be more feasible- repair or replacement.