How much does it cost to snake a drain? Drain cleaning is an essential maintenance task to prevent clogged drains in your kitchen sink, toilets, etc., and ensure proper water flow. DIY options are available, but professional drain cleaning services may be necessary for severe clogs. There are different factors involved with the cost of cleaning a drain, as well as multiple different methods that vary in price. But how much can you expect it to cost to unclog a drain? In this article, we will go over the different methods of drain cleaning you can choose from for your clogged drains, including DIY and professional options, as well as the different factors of costs involved, such as what it costs to snake a drain vs. to hydrojet a drain.
No matter which drain cleaning method is used, the cost can vary depending on the type of drain, location, and severity of the clog. Professional drain cleaning services can range from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the job (a larger clog will take more time and effort to resolve, a sewer that is difficult to access will cost more, etc.). Factors such as tree roots, broken pipes, and buildup can also impact the drain cleaning cost, depending on if you need extensive repair. If your pipe is damaged as well as clogged, this will require a bit more work to resolve. The exact cost to unclog a drain can also depend on the hourly rate of the plumber and the type of equipment used.
There will also be the question of whether or not your drain will require a video inspection. Video camera inspections can sometimes be required if a plumber has already attempted to remove the blockage through snaking but could not remove it or removed the clog but the drain continues to run slow. The average price of a video line inspection is around $900.
DIY options can be cost-effective but may not be suitable for all types of clogs. DIY methods are best suited for smaller, temporary clogs that are not recurring. It is a good idea to schedule free estimates on service calls with multiple professional plumbers to determine the most cost-effective solution for you. Plumbers may also have a drain cleaning cost calculator to help you get an idea of the price.
Hydrojetting is one of the most effective methods for drain cleaning. It involves inserting a flexible cable down into the drain that will release a strong blast of water to clear away tough clogs and clean the sides of the pipe from hard buildup. Hydrojetting will typically cost between $300 and $600, but the drain cleaning cost can range to above $1,200 depending on if you need an entire sewer line jetted or not.
A drain snake, also known as a drain auger or a plumbing snake, is a common tool used to clear clogs in drains. It is a simpler approach and will cost less than a hydro jetting job. A plumbing snake is a long cable inserted into the kitchen sink, shower, or laundry drain that is rotated to break apart a clog. How much does it cost to snake a drain in your house? A drain snaking job from a professional can cost anywhere between $100 and $500, with handheld or drill types being on the lower cost side and machine augers being more expensive. More heavy-duty sewer machines are available as well for larger jobs and will be closer to $1,000 or more.
Apart from the initial cost of the service, you also have to consider the labor cost for the plumber you hire. There are some companies that charge a flat fee, but the average hourly rate for a plumber is between $45 and $200 an hour. There will be additional fees if you have to call in an emergency and they prioritize your appointment.
The cost of drain cleaning can also depend on the type of drain, such as a kitchen sink or toilet drain. faucet drains or garbage disposals will usually be around $175 or $225. Bathtub drains are a bit more challenging and will most likely cost over $250. Toilet drains will require specialized equipment to unclog. They can range from $150 to $300 depending on how complex the clog is.
Main line drain clearing and repair can be a complex and costly job, with prices ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more. The cost of main line drain clearing can depend on the severity of the clog and the type of equipment used. A professional plumber may use specialized equipment, such as hydro jets or rooter and flex-shaft machines, to clear main line clogs. These services usually start around $800 and higher, depending on how difficult it is to access the area and how much digging will have to be involved. Cost will also depend on the material of pipe you choose, whether it is cast iron, PVC, or plastic pipes.
Main line drain repair and pipe replacement can also involve the use of trenchless technology to minimize damage to landscaping if there is damage to the pipes. Traditional sewer repair is much more involved and expensive, with full excavation required to replace the pipe. Trenchless sewer repair or pipe relining is much less invasive and requires less time.
DIY drain cleaning can be a good solution for minor clogs, with options including drain snakes and store-bought or homemade drain cleaners.
Drain snakes and drain cleaners can be purchased at the hardware store but must be used with extreme caution. Though they can be effective against minor blockages in your drains, they can also cause extreme damage if used incorrectly. When you snake a drain, it can damage the walls of your pipe if handled improperly, and store-bought drain cleaners can be extremely abrasive to your pipes if you use more than the directed amount or if you use them repeatedly. It is best to get non-chemical drain cleaners if you can.
Using a baking soda and vinegar mixture can also be a good alternative to chemical cleaners and can reduce drain cleaning costs. Mixing equal parts baking soda and vinegar and pouring it down your drain, leaving it for about an hour before following it with a pot of boiling water, is a good way to dissolve clogs and clean your drains of buildup.
DIY methods may not be suitable for severe clogs or complex drain systems.
Common causes of drain clogs include hair, soap scum, and debris buildup, which will naturally accumulate but can also be lessened. Improper disposal of materials such as cooking grease, paper towels, wipes, and cat litter can also contribute to clogs. Tree roots and broken pipes can cause clogs in main line drains, leading to issues in multiple plumbing fixtures in the house.
It is a good idea to schedule regular annual maintenance with drain cleaning plumbers as well to ensure everything in your plumbing is working as it should. They can employ methods such as hydro jetting, plumbing snakes, video inspections, and more to ensure your drains and sewer line are in good condition. Professional plumbers can catch drain issues early on before they become a frustrating and expensive problem.
Our philosophy is simple, we always want to maintain equipment to give it the longest life possible. Next, we want to focus on repairing when something goes wrong. Then only as the last choice, we replace equipment when needed. That’s the John Owens Way.
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