Summer storms, increased household activity, and aging pipes make drain issues one of the most common home service calls in Northeast Ohio from June through August. Many homeowners try to address clogs and slow drains themselves, but there are situations where DIY approaches make the problem worse — and a professional drain cleaning service is the faster, safer fix.
Why Drains Get Worse in Summer
Heavy summer rains overwhelm storm drains and can push debris back into residential lines. Tree roots, which grow more aggressively in warm weather, can infiltrate sewer lines through small cracks or joints. Grease buildup in kitchen drains — accelerated by summer cooking and backyard entertaining — creates blockages that liquid drain cleaners can’t fully dissolve.
The Limits of Store-Bought Drain Cleaners
Liquid chemical drain cleaners work on minor hair and soap clogs in bathroom drains — and that’s about it. For grease clogs, root intrusion, or any kind of blockage deep in the drain line, they’re ineffective and can damage older PVC and cast iron pipes with repeated use. A professional drain cleaner uses mechanical equipment — cable machines, high-pressure water jetting, and sewer cameras — that actually removes the obstruction rather than partially dissolving it.
Signs You Need Professional Drain Service
- Multiple drains in your home are running slow at the same time (usually a main line issue)
- You hear gurgling sounds from drains when a toilet flushes
- Water backs up into a tub or floor drain when you run a washing machine
- You have a recurring clog that comes back within weeks of clearing it yourself
- Standing water in your basement floor drain
Emergency vs. Scheduled Service
Most drain clogs don’t qualify as emergencies — they’re inconvenient but can be scheduled for the next business day. However, if you have sewage backing up into your home, or water from a drain line flooding a finished space, that’s an emergency that requires immediate response. Look for a drain service that offers 24/7 emergency availability, not just regular business hours.
For drain cleaning in the Youngstown, Canfield, and greater Mahoning County area, Gettemy Drain Service handles residential, commercial, and industrial drain issues — including 24/7 emergency water and sewer restoration.
Call (330) 758-5031 to schedule service, or (330) 610-4193 for emergencies.