How to Clean a Pipe the Right Way

Many homeowners and business owners eventually face the same problem: drains that slow down, unpleasant odours creeping up from dirty pipes, or clogs that just won’t go away. In those moments, the question often comes up: “Can I fix this myself?” It’s tempting to reach for a quick solution, pour something down the drain, or try a store-bought pipe cleaner.

But cleaning a pipe isn’t always as simple as it looks. What seems like a small issue on the surface can often point to deeper build-up, hidden leaks, or problems in your drainage system. That’s why this blog takes a closer look at why pipe cleaning matters, the risks of common DIY methods, and why professional plumbers are the best choice for keeping your system safe, effective, and built to last.

Why Cleaning Plumbing Pipes Matters

Over time, every pipe builds up debris. Soap scum, grease, hair, food particles, and even minerals from hard water can cling to the inside of the line. Left untreated, dirty pipes can cause:

• Slow or blocked drains
• Unpleasant smells in the laundry room, bathroom, or kitchen
• Leaks from weakened joints
• Higher risk of water damage and mould

Regular pipe maintenance is not just about convenience. It’s about protecting the health of your home or business and ensuring your plumbing lasts for years.

Why DIY Cleaning Is Risky

When people search for how to clean plumbing pipes, they often find home remedies such as pouring boiling water down the drain, mixing a cup of baking soda with vinegar, or using a store-bought cleaning solution. Some even suggest using isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol, advice often pulled from guides on how to clean a pipe or bong, not household drainage.

These methods might seem quick, but they rarely solve the underlying issue. You might rinse your pipe with hot water or pour in a cleaning solution, yet the deeper build-up remains. Worse, harsh chemicals and alcohol can corrode PVC or copper pipes, damage seals, or push debris further into the system.

What looks like a cheap fix often leads to leaks, hidden water damage, or even denied insurance claims. DIY shortcuts don’t provide safe or lasting results, professional cleaning is always the smarter choice.

Signs Your Pipes Need More Than DIY

If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call a professional instead of trying another DIY solution:

• Drains that are consistently slow even after flushing with hot water
• Persistent odours from the kitchen sink or laundry room
• Gurgling noises when water goes down the drain
• Recurring blockages despite trying a pipe cleaner or baking soda and vinegar
• Visible leaks or water backing up into sinks, toilets, or tubs

These are signs that your system needs more than a quick rinse, it needs proper care from an expert.

Why Professional Cleaning Matters

Quick fixes like boiling water or baking soda don’t compare to what licensed plumbers can do. With specialised tools such as mechanical equipment, hydro jetting, and camera inspections, professionals provide deep cleaning that clears dirty pipes, protects plumbing lines, and ensures proper drainage.

In New Zealand, only Registered Master Plumbers can legally carry out sanitary work. Choosing them means your pipes are cleaned safely, kept compliant with regulations, and protected from the costly damage that DIY methods often cause.

Partner with the Experts

At Water Works, we’re more than just plumbers. We’re a team of Registered Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and fully compliant solutions for every project. From clearing dirty pipes and fixing leaks to providing deep cleaning with professional tools, we make sure every job is done right the first time.

When you choose us, you can count on:

• Licensed professionals who meet New Zealand’s strict plumbing standards
• Proven experience across both residential and commercial properties
• Full services including hot water cylinder installation, drainage and sewer solutions, gas fitting, bathroom and kitchen installations, and 24/7 emergency plumber support
• A commitment to safety, quality, and long-lasting results

Call us today on 09 884 4661 or book online to save $15.