Top 7 Mistakes in Sewer and Drain Cleaning

1. Overusing Chemical Drain Cleaners

It’s tempting to grab a bottle of drain cleaner from the store when water starts backing up in your sink. These products promise fast relief, but they come with a hidden cost. Most chemical drain cleaners use harsh ingredients that generate heat to dissolve clogs. Over time, this heat can weaken and damage your pipes, especially older metal or PVC ones.



Not only do chemical cleaners risk damaging your plumbing system, but they also often don’t fully resolve the clog. They may clear the immediate blockage, but a buildup deeper in the system can remain, leading to repeat problems.

2. Ignoring the Warning Signs

A gurgling drain, slow water flow, or foul odors can all be early warning signs of a developing blockage. Unfortunately, many homeowners ignore these signs until the problem becomes urgent, like a complete blockage or sewage backup.

Acting quickly when you notice these symptoms can prevent more extensive and costly repairs. A small investment in professional drain inspection early on can save you hundreds (if not thousands) later.

3. Using the Wrong Tools or Techniques

DIY tools like plungers and drain snakes can be helpful for minor clogs. However, misusing them or applying too much force can damage your pipes. For example, aggressively snaking a line can scratch pipe walls or even cause cracks. Worse still, if you accidentally push a clog deeper into the system, you can create a much more serious blockage.

Professional plumbers use advanced tools like sewer line cameras and hydro-jetting equipment to safely and thoroughly clear out blockages without risking pipe damage.

4. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting for a problem to arise before taking action. Just like any other system in your home, your plumbing needs routine maintenance. Without it, grease, soap scum, hair, and debris slowly accumulate inside your pipes until a major clog forms.

Scheduling regular cleanings and inspections is the best way to prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies. Professionals can spot small issues before they become serious and recommend preventive steps to keep your system running smoothly.

5. Flushing the Wrong Things Down the Drain

Toilets and sinks are only designed to handle specific types of waste. Unfortunately, many people treat them like garbage disposals. Items like wet wipes (even those labeled “flushable”), feminine hygiene products, grease, coffee grounds, and paper towels should never go down your drains.

These materials don’t break down properly and can easily create clogs that grow over time. Educating your household on proper flushing habits is one of the simplest ways to protect your plumbing.

6. Trying to DIY Complex Repairs

YouTube has made DIY repairs more accessible than ever, but sewer and drain cleaning is not always as simple as it looks. Complex plumbing issues often involve working in tight spaces, understanding building codes, and using specialized tools. What starts as a small repair can quickly turn into a disaster without the right training.

When in doubt, it’s always better to leave major plumbing tasks to certified professionals.

7. Delaying Professional Help

The biggest mistake? Waiting too long to call a plumber. A small, manageable issue—like a partially clogged drain—can evolve into a full-blown sewer backup if left untreated. The longer you delay, the greater the damage and the higher the repair costs.

If you’ve tried basic methods and the problem keeps coming back, it’s time to bring in an expert.

When it comes to sewer and drain cleaning in Northern California, Mike’s Plumbing and Rooter Service stands out for professionalism, quality, and results. Serving Santa Rosa and surrounding areas, Mike’s team brings more than two decades of experience to every job.

Their licensed and insured technicians specialize in diagnosing and resolving even the toughest drain issues using cutting-edge tools and methods.

Why You Should Choose Mike’s Plumbing and Rooter Service

• Skilled Expertise: Mike’s team is trained to handle everything from simple drain cleaning to complex sewer line repairs. Their experience ensures every job is done safely and correctly.
• Advanced Technology: Mike’s Plumbing uses sewer line video inspections, hydro jetting, and pipe locating systems that provide faster, cleaner, and more precise results than outdated methods.
• Full-Service Solutions: Whether you need emergency service or preventative maintenance, they offer a full range of plumbing and rooter services. From minor clogs to full sewer line replacements, they’ve got you covered.
• Upfront Pricing & Honest Work: With clear estimates and honest evaluations, you’ll never be surprised by hidden fees or upselling.
• 24/7 Emergency Service: Plumbing emergencies don’t keep regular business hours, and neither does Mike’s Plumbing and Rooter Service. They’re ready to respond when you need them most.