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Last Revised: 4/14/25
You’ve tried a plunger. You might’ve even used a store-bought drain snake. But water still pools around your feet in the shower or sits in your sink for what seems like forever. What now?
When drain problems persist or start affecting multiple areas of your home, it may be time to put down the plunger and call in a professional drain cleaning.
With over 75 years of service to homeowners, Mattioni knows the difference between a simple clog and a sign of something more serious. Knowing when to tackle a drain clearing on your own and when professional attention is needed is critical to protect your plumbing system and your peace of mind.
In this article, you’ll discover six unmistakable signs your drain issues go deeper than a DIY fix – and how a plumber can solve them before they lead to costly damage. We’ll explain what could be causing the issues and how expert solutions keep your plumbing flowing and your home protected.
6 Signs to Call for a Professional Drain Cleaning
Here they are – the six clear indications that it’s time to drop the plunger and call a plumber.
1. Persistent or Recurring Clogs
If you’ve cleared a drain more than once and the same issue keeps coming back, that’s a strong signal that the clog isn’t near the surface – it’s deeper in your plumbing system. Buildup from grease, hair, soap, or even tree roots can restrict water flow, and basic tools won’t reach far enough to solve the root cause.
DIY efforts like plunging or using a drain snake might offer temporary relief, but they don’t always fully remove the obstruction. Professional plumbers, on the other hand, use specialized equipment to thoroughly clear pipes and prevent the problem from returning.
2. Slow Drains Throughout The House
A single slow drain might be minor – but when sinks, tubs, or showers throughout your home are all draining slowly, it suggests a widespread issue in your drainage system. This could be caused by buildup in the main drain line, poor venting, or even early-stage blockages that haven’t completely clogged the pipes – yet.
These subtle, system-wide slowdowns are often missed by DIY fixes. A professional inspection can identify whether the issue is isolated or part of a larger drainage inefficiency, helping to avoid more serious problems down the line.
3. Foul Odors Coming From Drains
Unpleasant smells rising from your kitchen or bathroom drains can be more than just annoying – they often signal decaying debris, stagnant water, or sewer gas escaping from somewhere it shouldn’t. While it might be tempting to mask the odor with a deodorizer or flush the drain with hot water, persistent smells usually mean a deeper issue.
Plumbers can determine if the odor is caused by clogs, venting issues, or even a cracked sewer pipe. Addressing the root cause not only improves your home’s comfort – it ensures your plumbing system remains safe and sanitary.
4. Strange Gurgling Noises Are A Sign of Pressure Problems
If your drains or toilets are making gurgling or bubbling sounds, it’s often due to air being trapped in the system – usually a sign that water isn’t flowing freely. This can happen when a clog is partially blocking the line, causing air pockets and pressure imbalances in your pipes.
While this may not seem urgent, it’s a clear early warning that your drain system is under stress. A professional can diagnose whether the problem is due to improper venting, partial blockage, or another issue – and resolve it before it turns into a full-blown backup.
5. Multiple Fixtures Backing Up Or Overflowing
When several fixtures – like your toilet, shower, and kitchen sink – start backing up simultaneously, or when water begins rising from unexpected places, it’s a strong indicator of a main line blockage. This type of clog is beyond the reach of plungers and drain snakes, and DIY attempts like using chemical drain cleaners can actually make the problem worse.
This situation can lead to serious water damage or even sewage backups in other areas of your home. That’s when you need emergency plumbing support. A licensed plumber can locate the clog deep in your plumbing system and remove it safely, restoring proper flow and preventing future incidents.
6. Unexplained Wet Spots or Mold Near Plumbing Fixtures
If you notice damp spots, peeling paint, or mold growth near sinks, tubs, or walls where plumbing runs, don’t assume it’s just humidity. These can be signs of hidden leaks caused by clogs or pressure buildup in your drain lines. When water can’t drain properly, it can push through joints or cracks – or cause pipes to leak behind walls or floors.
This kind of hidden damage often goes unnoticed until mold becomes visible or materials begin to rot. A professional plumber can pinpoint the issue using inspection tools and stop further water damage before it gets worse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drain Cleaning & Clogs
Still have an unanswered question about your drain lines? Here are the most frequently asked questions:
1. Will chemical drain cleaners damage my pipes?
Yes – especially if used repeatedly. Many chemical drain cleaners generate heat to break down clogs, which can warp or corrode older or PVC pipes. They’re also harmful to septic systems and the environment. While they might offer a quick fix, repeated use often causes more harm than good. Mattioni uses safe, effective methods that protect your pipes and your plumbing system as a whole.
2. How do I know if a clog is in the main line or just one fixture?
If multiple drains in your home are slow or backing up, it’s likely a main drain sewer line issue. You may also notice water backing up in lower-level fixtures (such as a basement shower or toilet) when using water elsewhere in the house. In those cases, DIY won’t reach the problem area and a professional inspection is the best way to confirm the clog’s location.
3. Can I prevent future clogs on my own?
Yes! Preventative habits make a big difference. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper, never flush grease or food scraps down the sink, and use hair catchers in the tubs and showers. For added protection, consider scheduling a professional drain inspection once a year.
4. What does a plumber do that I can’t do myself?
While plungers and small drain snakes can handle surface-level clogs, professional plumbers use specialized equipment, including video inspection tools, to diagnose and clear problems deep in your plumbing system. This equipment ensures that the entire pipe is cleared – not just enough to get water moving again. Professionals also check for pipe damage, root intrusion, and long-term risks that DIY can miss.
5. How much does a professional drain cleaning cost?
The cost of a professional drain clearing varies based on the type of clog and which drain is clogged. At Mattioni, a single fixture drain clearing may cost a few hundred dollars. However, if your main drain is clogged, and you have an outside cleanout, it costs only $93 (and includes a camera inspection to make sure that the problem doesn’t resurface.) If your sewer line needs to be repaired or replaced, you may be facing higher costs.
6. Should I call right away or wait to see if the problem gets worse?
If a drain issue keeps returning, spreads to other fixtures, or shows signs like foul odors or gurgling, waiting could lead to a larger problem – like a full backup or pipe damage. It’s always safer (and less expensive) to address it early.
Protect Your Home with Expert Drain Cleaning
DIY drain clearing methods can help with minor clogs, but persistent symptoms like slow drainage, foul odors, or fixture backups are signs of more serious issues. Knowing when to call a professional can save you from costly repairs, water damage, and unnecessary frustration.
At Mattioni, we have over 75 years of experience using advanced diagnostic tools at every service call. Whether it’s a stubborn clog or a hidden issue deeper in your plumbing system, we’ll clear your drains safely and completely, so you can get back to taking care of more important parts of your life.
Don’t wait for a small clog to turn into a major problem – schedule your professional drain clearing with Mattioni now. Call (610) 400-8510 or book your appointment online today.
