Drain FAQs

A slow-draining kitchen sink is often the result of food particles, grease, or soap scum building up inside the drainpipe. Over time, these materials can reduce water flow, causing a noticeable delay in drainage. While store-bought drain cleaners might offer a temporary fix, they can also damage pipes. We recommend using a plunger or natural drain cleaner like baking soda and vinegar first. If the problem persists, it’s best to call a licensed plumber to inspect and professionally clean the drain line.

Recurring clogs often indicate a deeper issue within your plumbing system. In many cases, it’s not just one clogged fixture but a blockage somewhere in the main drain line. Common causes include tree root intrusion, aging pipes, or buildup from materials like hair, grease, and debris. At Leto Plumbing & Heating, we use advanced equipment like hydro jetting and video camera inspections to diagnose and resolve these recurring issues at the source.

While chemical drain cleaners can be effective in the short term, they’re not ideal for regular use. These products often contain harsh ingredients that can erode pipes, particularly older ones made of metal or PVC. Long-term use may lead to leaks or pipe failure. Instead, opt for enzyme-based cleaners that break down organic material without damaging your plumbing. For frequent clogs, it’s always safer and more effective to consult a professional plumber.

Preventing clogs starts with mindful usage of your drains. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink, and use drain screens to catch food particles and hair. Regularly flush your drains with hot water to clear small buildups. For extra protection, consider scheduling an annual drain cleaning service with a local expert like Leto Plumbing & Heating. Preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping your pipes flowing smoothly.

Unpleasant odors from your drain can stem from mold, bacteria, or debris trapped in the pipes or drain trap. Start by cleaning the visible portion of the drain and flushing it with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. If the smell lingers, it may be a sign of a dry P-trap or deeper blockage. Calling a plumber ensures a thorough cleaning and inspection to remove the root cause of the smell and restore fresh air to your bathroom.

When water backs up into other fixtures—like a toilet bubbling when the washer drains—it’s usually a sign of a blockage in the main sewer line. This is a serious issue that can lead to unsanitary conditions and damage to your home. If this happens, turn off your water supply and call a plumber immediately. We offer camera inspections and sewer rodding to identify and clear these complex blockages safely.

Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, making small cracks or joints in your sewer lines an ideal target. Once inside, roots grow and cause blockages, restricting water flow and damaging your pipes. If your home is surrounded by mature trees and you’re experiencing frequent backups, a professional inspection is crucial. Leto Plumbing & Heating offers trenchless repair options that minimize disruption to your yard while resolving the issue.

Some of the most common signs of a sewer line clog include multiple clogged drains, sewage odors, gurgling sounds from your toilet, and water pooling around basement floor drains. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t delay—sewer line clogs can quickly become emergencies. Our team is equipped with state-of-the-art tools like sewer cameras and hydro jetters to locate and eliminate blockages efficiently.

For most homes, an annual professional drain cleaning is recommended to prevent buildup and maintain optimal flow. However, households with large families, older plumbing systems, or previous drain issues may benefit from more frequent cleanings. According to the EPA’s WaterSense program, regular maintenance not only improves performance but can also reduce water waste and lower utility bills.

Yes, clogged drains can lead to serious pipe damage if left untreated. Pressure builds up behind the blockage, which can cause pipes to crack, leak, or burst—especially in older systems. Additionally, standing water can lead to corrosion or weaken pipe joints over time. Addressing clogs early with the help of a licensed plumber prevents costly repairs and protects your home’s plumbing infrastructure.

A gurgling toilet is a telltale sign of a venting or drainage problem. When air cannot flow freely through your plumbing system, it creates a vacuum that pulls air through your toilet, causing the gurgling noise. This often happens when there’s a partial clog in the main drain or vent stack. Our technicians can perform a diagnostic test to identify the source and restore proper function.

Despite being marketed as “flushable,” most wipes don’t break down easily and can cause significant clogs in your pipes and municipal sewer systems. The National Association of Clean Water Agencies warns against their use due to the increased risk of blockages and equipment damage. To protect your plumbing, stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper.

Hydro jetting is a powerful drain cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to blast away stubborn clogs, grease, and mineral buildup inside pipes. It’s highly effective for deep or recurring clogs, especially in sewer lines. Hydro jetting is typically reserved for cases where traditional snaking doesn’t resolve the issue. At Leto Plumbing & Heating, we offer hydro jetting as part of our advanced drain cleaning services for residential systems in Plainfield, IL.

Homes built before the 1980s may still have cast iron or clay sewer lines, which are prone to corrosion and cracking. Signs of deteriorating pipes include slow drains, frequent backups, wet patches in your yard, or unusual odors. A video pipe inspection can confirm the condition of your pipes. If damage is found, we offer trenchless pipe repair solutions that are both cost-effective and minimally invasive.

If you’ve tried plunging or using a drain cleaner and the problem persists, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. Repeated clogs, strange sounds, bad odors, or backups into other fixtures indicate a more complex issue that DIY methods can’t fix. We recommend contacting Leto Plumbing & Heating for fast, reliable drain services tailored to your home’s needs.