Let’s face it—no one likes dealing with a clogged drain. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up shower, or a smelly kitchen pipe, drain issues are not only annoying, but they can also lead to bigger plumbing problems if not handled properly. That’s where things get tricky. The internet is full of DIY “solutions,” and well-meaning advice from friends or neighbours can lead you down the wrong path. But not everything you hear about drain cleaning is true—and some of it can make the problem worse.
At Go 2 Plumbing and Heating, we’ve seen it all when it comes to drain disasters across Edmonton homes and businesses. So let’s set the record straight. In this blog, we’ll debunk the most common myths about drain cleaning, explain what actually works, and show you when it’s time to call in a professional.
Myth #1: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are the Best Fix
The truth: While they may work in the short term, chemical drain cleaners are often more harmful than helpful.
Many over-the-counter drain cleaners contain highly corrosive ingredients that can eat through PVC pipes, damage older metal piping, and degrade seals and joints. They may temporarily dissolve a blockage, but they often leave behind residue that causes more buildup later.
Even worse, if used frequently, they can cause long-term damage to your entire plumbing system—not to mention the environmental harm of pouring harsh chemicals into your drains.
Better solution: Use natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar for light clogs, and rely on professional drain snaking or hydro-jetting for tougher blockages.
Myth #2: If the Water Still Drains, It’s Not a Big Deal
The truth: Just because water is still going down the drain doesn’t mean your system is in the clear.
Partial blockages often go unnoticed until they become full-blown clogs. Warning signs like gurgling noises, foul smells, or slow drainage are all clues that trouble is brewing underground.
Ignoring these early symptoms can result in burst pipes, sewage backups, or water damage—all of which are far more expensive and invasive to repair.
Tip: If you’re noticing any slow drainage or recurring clogs, don’t wait. Prevention is always cheaper than emergency repair.
Myth #3: DIY Tools Are Just as Good as Professional Equipment
The truth: Most consumer-grade plungers and drain snakes are designed for basic, surface-level problems. They often lack the reach or power needed to clear deeper, more stubborn blockages.
Professional plumbers use specialized tools like motorized augers, high-pressure hydro jetters, and camera inspection systems that allow them to locate and eliminate the root cause of a clog with precision.
Trying to force your way through a clog with a basic tool can even cause pipe damage or push the blockage further down—making things worse.
Myths vs. Reality – Drain Cleaning Edition
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Chemical cleaners are the best fix | They damage pipes and harm the environment |
| If it still drains, it’s fine | Partial clogs worsen over time |
| DIY tools are just as good as pro tools | Consumer tools can’t reach deep or complex blockages |
| Hot water and soap keep drains clean | Soap scum builds up and contributes to clogs over time |
| Grease is safe if rinsed with hot water | Grease solidifies and clogs pipes once it cools |
| Tree roots aren’t a concern in city properties | Roots can invade pipes anywhere—even in urban Edmonton |
| A clog is just a clog—nothing serious | Clogs often indicate bigger sewer or drainage issues |
Myth #4: Pouring Grease Down the Drain Is Okay (If You Use Hot Water)
The truth: No matter how hot your water is, grease will eventually cool and solidify in your pipes.
It may flow easily at first, but once it hits cooler sections of your plumbing system, it starts to solidify—clinging to the inside of your pipes and collecting other debris along the way.
Over time, this leads to serious blockages and even sewer line backups. Grease is one of the top culprits behind major kitchen drain issues.
Pro Tip: Always dispose of grease in a container and toss it in the trash, never the sink.
Myth #5: A Smelly Drain Just Needs Air Freshener
The truth: A foul odor coming from your drain is almost always a sign of bacteria, mold, or a hidden blockage.
Air fresheners might mask the smell, but they won’t fix the underlying problem. Smells from kitchen drains can stem from trapped food particles, while bathroom odors may be caused by mold or dry P-traps.
Effective fix: Clean drains with a baking soda and vinegar mixture, run hot water afterward, and call a plumber if the smell persists—it could be a deeper issue.
Myth #6: Tree Roots Can’t Be the Problem in the City
The truth: Even in dense urban areas like Edmonton, tree roots are a common and costly cause of sewer blockages.
Roots naturally seek out moisture, and even the tiniest crack in a sewer line can invite them in. Once inside, they grow and trap other debris—eventually leading to a complete pipe blockage.
Solution: Professional plumbers use video inspection and root removal equipment to identify and treat root intrusion before it causes property damage.
So… What Actually Works?
Now that we’ve debunked the myths, let’s talk about what does work for safe, effective drain maintenance:
✅ Routine Professional Drain Cleaning
Scheduling annual or biannual drain cleaning prevents major clogs and extends the life of your plumbing system.
✅ Video Camera Inspections
This allows us to see what’s happening deep inside your drains—so we can target the exact issue without guesswork.
✅ Hydro Jetting
A high-pressure stream of water clears away even the most stubborn blockages, from grease to tree roots, without damaging your pipes.
✅ Biodegradable Enzyme Cleaners
These cleaners eat away at organic buildup without harsh chemicals. Perfect for regular maintenance.
Edmonton’s 24-Hour Drain Cleaning Experts
Unlike your typical 9-5 Edmonton plumber, Go 2 Plumbing and Heating offers 24-hour emergency service for all your drain, plumbing, and heating needs.
We understand that plumbing emergencies don’t happen on schedule. Whether your sink is overflowing at midnight or your toilet is backing up during Sunday dinner, we’re just a call away—ready to help fast.
Our full range of services includes:
- Professional drain cleaning & camera inspection
- Faucet and fixture installations
- Tankless water heater installations
- Sewer line replacements
- Residential and commercial plumbing services
Final Thought: Don’t Let a Clog Spiral into a Crisis
Ignoring a slow drain or relying on harmful chemical “quick fixes” can lead to thousands of dollars in future damage. Knowing the truth about what works—and what doesn’t—can save you time, stress, and serious plumbing repairs.
So when your drain acts up, trust the professionals who know Edmonton homes inside and out.
📍 Visit us:
Go 2 Plumbing and Heating
9544 143 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5E 2H3
📞 Call us: 780-850-8817
💻 Book your free quote today: https://www.go2plumbers.ca/contact-us/
