Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face, but many people don’t realize the warning signs start long before a full blockage happens. When ignored, small drainage problems can quickly turn into costly repairs — or even damage to your pipes. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Here are five key signs that it’s time to call in a professional drain cleaning service before the problem gets worse.
1. Slow-Draining Sinks or Tubs
If your sink or shower is taking longer than usual to drain, that’s one of the first red flags that something is clogging your pipes. Over time, soap scum, hair, grease, and mineral buildup accumulate inside the drain, restricting water flow. Home remedies like plunging or using chemical cleaners might help temporarily, but they often push debris deeper into the system. A professional plumber can clear the entire line using specialized tools such as hydro jetting, ensuring your pipes are completely clean and free of buildup.
2. Frequent or Recurring Clogs
If you find yourself dealing with clogs over and over again, it’s a clear indication of a deeper problem within your plumbing system. Constantly unclogging the same sink or toilet is frustrating — and it means the issue lies further down the drain line. Professionals use camera inspections to locate the exact cause and remove blockages completely, so you can stop wasting time with temporary fixes.
3. Unpleasant Odors Coming from Drains
Strange smells coming from your drains are a definite sign that something isn’t right. Food particles, grease, or other organic matter trapped in your pipes can decompose and release foul odors throughout your kitchen or bathroom. Sometimes these smells also point to a bigger issue, such as a dried-out P-trap or a broken sewer line. Professional drain cleaning eliminates odor-causing buildup and restores freshness to your home.
4. Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds
When you hear gurgling noises from your drains, it’s often a sign that air is trapped inside the pipes due to a clog or partial blockage. These air pockets cause pressure fluctuations that lead to bubbling sounds in your toilet, sink, or shower. Ignoring these noises could lead to serious plumbing problems like sewer backups. A professional plumber can locate the blockage and restore proper air and water flow through your system.
5. Water Backing Up in Unusual Places
One of the most obvious and urgent signs that your drains need cleaning is water backing up into your sink, tub, or toilet. If running your washing machine causes water to rise in your bathtub, for example, it’s likely that your main drain line is clogged. Backups can cause water damage, bad odors, and potential exposure to bacteria, so it’s critical to address them immediately.
Why Professional Drain Cleaning Is Worth It
While it’s tempting to try DIY solutions, professional drain cleaning offers long-term protection for your plumbing system. Licensed plumbers use advanced methods like hydro jetting and sewer camera inspections to clean and diagnose your pipes without damaging them. This not only clears current blockages but also helps prevent future ones by removing all residue inside the lines.
Routine professional cleaning also extends the life of your plumbing and helps avoid emergency repairs. It’s a small investment that can prevent costly issues like burst pipes, sewer backups, and water damage.
Final Thoughts
Your plumbing system is one of the most important parts of your home, and keeping it clean is key to its performance and longevity. If you notice slow drains, bad smells, gurgling noises, or recurring clogs, don’t ignore them — they’re warning signs that it’s time to act.
Contact Peli Plumbing today for expert drain and sewer cleaning services. Our experienced team uses the latest tools and techniques to get your drains flowing freely again, keeping your home clean, safe, and worry-free.
Call (626) 252-8697 or schedule your service online to restore your drains today.