As the year comes to a close, we take a look at some of the most popular stories on www.cleaner.com. If you missed any of these, now is your chance to catch up.

10. A Look at Pipe Plugs: Pneumatic vs. Mechanical
Pipe plugs are a valuable tool for stopping or redirecting the flow of wastewater during maintenance of sewer systems. But how do you decide between a pneumatic or mechanical plug for your application? That’s what this article took a look at.

9. Charging Call-Out Fees for Providing Estimates
Some customers won’t budge from their expectation that estimates should be provided for free, but you should never be afraid about properly valuing your time. That’s the viewpoint that this article argued for.

8. Plumber Finds Anaconda-Sized Root Growth in Storm Pipe
Everyone in this industry has stories about clearing roots out of pipes. One such story that made the rounds back in March involved a root growth notable for its sheer size. The plumber who removed it described it as an “anaconda” and the worst root infestation in a pipe he’s seen in 40 years.

7. Doing a Cost Comparison Between Pipe Lining and Traditional Excavation
Is pipe lining truly worth it? In this article, industry veteran John Heisler, of Pipe Lining Supply, broke down some numbers using a fictional scenario to show exactly how lining stands up to the standard dig-and-replace method.

6. Questions to Consider Before Purchasing Diagnostic Tools
Diagnostic equipment adds a valuable service to your offerings, but it’s important to do your research ahead of time so that you get exactly what you need. This article covered some questions you should be asking yourself before committing to a purchase.    

5. Embrace the Comforts of a Cargo Van
In this article, one contractor explained some of the advantages realized by opting for a cargo van over a box truck.

4. Open Frozen Drain Cleanout Plugs With Ease
Opening frozen drain cleanout plugs can be a pain. This article took a look at the solution that Rance Okudara, a technician at Roto-Rooter of Honolulu, uses.

3. Know Your Diesel Exhaust Fluid Best Practices
In an effort to meet EPA standards, diesel exhaust fluid is commonly used on the latest equipment to reduce nitrogen oxides in emissions. This article covered a few things that are important to know about how to use and store it.

2. Don’t Plant Seeds of Doubt in Customers’ Minds
People won’t stop needing plumbers and drain cleaners any time soon because there are some things better off left to the experts. It’s why you’ll continue to get calls no matter how many DIY videos exist on YouTube, but it’s also why you can’t afford to say or do anything that creates doubts about your expertise or abilities in customers’ minds. How do those seeds of doubt arise and what can you do about it? This article offered some advice.

1. Selling the Plumbing and Drain Cleaning Trade to a Young Generation Focused on College
As the industry continues to lose the older members of its workforce, and the skills gap widens, it’s imperative for companies to be proactive about their recruitment efforts. Regular contributor Anthony Pacilla makes the case in the most-read article of 2021, and offers some tips on what companies can do to try to reach this key demographic.