Missoula Drain Cleaning

Drain Cleaning Experts Serving Western Montana

Are you dealing with persistent and troublesome clogs in your drains? You may need professional help. Unlike DIY methods that may provide temporary relief, professional drain cleaning employs advanced techniques and specialized equipment like hydro jetting and motorized drain snakes. These tools not only efficiently remove clogs but also cleanse the drain walls of buildup that can lead to future blockages.

At Anderson’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we make Missoula drain cleaning easy. Our skilled plumbers have the tools and experience to fix clogs and blockages of all kinds quickly. Protecting your piping is our priority, and with our 24/7 emergency services, we are here to help whenever you need us!

If you are dealing with stubborn blockages in any of your drains, do not wait to call (406) 296-5833 or contact us online. We offer a satisfaction guarantee!

Signs of a Drain Clog

Several indicators can signal a looming drain clog, a situation best addressed promptly to avoid escalating plumbing issues. Understanding these signs can help you decide when to seek professional assistance.

You likely need our professional Missoula drain cleaning services if you are dealing with any of the following issues:

• Slow draining. One of the most apparent signs of a drain clog is water draining slower than usual. Whether in your sink, bathtub, or shower, this symptom suggests an obstruction in your pipes that is impeding water flow.
• Gurgling sounds. Unusual noises coming from your drains can also indicate trouble. A gurgling sound after running water can hint at trapped air in the plumbing system, which is often caused by a blockage.
• Unpleasant odors. Foul smells coming from your drain are not only unpleasant but also a potential sign of accumulated food particles, grease, or other decaying material in your pipes, all of which can eventually cause a clog. 
• Water backup: An unmistakable sign of a drain clog is water backing up out of a drain. This is often observed in toilets, showers, or sinks and indicates a significant blockage that requires immediate attention.
• Frequent clogs. If you find yourself repeatedly clearing clogs in the same drain, you may have a more serious problem within your plumbing system that warrants a professional inspection.

Ignoring these warnings can lead to more severe plumbing problems, including leaks, water damage, or even burst pipes. Regular maintenance, timely professional cleaning, and adhering to best practices can help prevent these issues and keep your plumbing system in optimal condition.

Common Causes of Drain Clogs

Many drain clogs do not happen all at once or as the result of a single object or event. Many factors – some seemingly harmless – can contribute to a gradual buildup and eventual blockage within your plumbing system.  Understanding the common causes of these blockages can empower you to prevent future clogs effectively.

Drain clogs are frequently caused by:

• Hair accumulation. Hair is one of the biggest culprits of drain problems, especially in showers and bathroom sinks. Over time, strands of hair can entangle with soap scum and other debris, forming dense, knotted clogs that obstruct water flow.
• Grease and fat buildup. Kitchen sinks are particularly susceptible to clogs caused by the improper disposal of grease, oils, and fats. These substances may enter the drain as liquids but quickly solidify upon cooling, sticking to the pipes and gradually accumulating until they obstruct the passage.
• Food waste. Even with a garbage disposal, certain types of food waste should never be flushed down the drain. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and starchy foods can clump together or cling to pipes, creating stubborn clogs.
• Foreign objects. Drains are designed to handle water, certain liquids, and, in some cases, food waste. However, foreign objects such as toys, small household items, and hygiene products like cotton swabs or feminine hygiene products can unexpectedly find their way into the drainage system, leading to severe blockages.
• Mineral buildup. In homes with hard water, minerals dissolved in the water can deposit and solidify inside pipes, narrowing the internal diameter and eventually leading to a blockage. Installing a water softener system can mitigate this issue by removing excess minerals from your water supply.
• Tree root intrusion. For homes with older plumbing systems, tree root intrusion in sewer lines can be a common but serious problem. Trees and shrubs seeking moisture can grow into pipes, causing cracks and blockages. This issue often requires professional intervention to clear and repair the affected pipes.

How We Approach Drain Cleaning

At Anderson’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we take a comprehensive and strategic approach to Missoula drain cleaning that sets us apart. We start with a detailed assessment of the issue at hand. This initial diagnosis is critical, as it helps us understand the type and severity of the clog as well as any underlying issues that may be contributing to the problem. 

We use advanced diagnostic tools, including high-resolution drain cameras, to visually inspect the interior of your pipes. This technology allows us to pinpoint the exact location and nature of the clog without resorting to invasive procedures. 

For standard blockages, we often utilize motorized drain snakes. These flexible cables can be threaded through the plumbing to physically break apart clogs, providing immediate relief without damaging your pipes. For more stubborn or extensive blockages, such as those caused by mineral buildup or grease, we may recommend hydro jetting. This method uses a high-velocity stream of water to not only break apart clogs but also thoroughly clean the interior walls of your pipes, removing buildup that can lead to future blockages.

No clog is too stubborn or complex. You can trust our team will do whatever it takes to clear your drains and protect your plumbing. 

How to Prevent Future Drain Clogs

Adopting certain best practices can significantly reduce the odds of experiencing a frustrating drain clog. When we clear your drains, we will walk you through what caused the blockage and offer tailored advice to help avoid future issues.

Follow these tips to help prevent drain clogs:

• Use drain guards. Install drain guards in sinks, showers, and bathtubs to catch hair, soap pieces, and other debris. These simple devices can drastically reduce the amount of potentially clog-inducing material entering your drains.
• Properly dispose of grease and oil. Never pour cooking grease, oil, or fat down the drain. Instead, allow it to cool and solidify, then scrape it into the trash. For liquid oils, consider absorbing them with paper towels or reusing them where appropriate.
• Be mindful of what goes down your toilets. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed. Avoid disposing of items like wipes (even those labeled as “flushable”), feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, and dental floss in the toilet, as these can lead to severe clogs and backups.
• Regularly clean stoppers and drain covers. Remove and clean pop-up stoppers and drain covers regularly to clear out any accumulated hair and soap gunk. This will help maintain a clear path for water drainage.
• Use natural cleaners. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar as a natural cleaning solution to help maintain clear drains. Pour the baking soda followed by vinegar down the drain, wait for an hour or so, then flush with hot water. This can help to dislodge minor clogs and clean the insides of your pipes.
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners. While they may seem convenient, chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes and aren't always effective against many types of clogs. They can also be harmful to the environment, making physical removal or natural alternatives better options.
• Schedule regular professional cleanings. Even with diligent care, having your drains professionally cleaned on a regular basis is a smart preventive measure. Our professionals can remove buildups that at-home methods can't reach and inspect your plumbing for potential issues.

When you need Missoula drain cleaning services, contact us online or call (406) 296-5833!