How Much To Have The Line Snaked Between Septic Tank And House? (Perfect answer)

Snaking or rodding: For about the cost of a service call, between $100–$250, the plumber will send a thin metal wire down the line to pull out the clog.

Cost to Clean a Sewer Line by Type.

Snaking/Rodding $100 – $250
Repair or replace $1,000 – $7,500
Chemical treatments $5 – $300

1 •

  • In a conventional gravity system, the pipe from the house to the septic tank, and the outlet pipe from the tank to the distribution box or leach field, should both slope downward with a minimum slope of 1/4 in. per ft. (1/8 in. per ft. in some jurisdictions).

How much does it cost to get a line snaked?

For main line clogs, you want to call a professional plumber immediately. On average, companies will charge anywhere from $200 to $500 to snake a main line clog.

How much does it cost to get sewer line Descaled?

Descaling a sewer pipe costs about $300 and involves clearing out the inside of debris without disturbing the pipe.

How much does Roto Rooter charge to snake a sewer line?

Roto-Rooter is a national company that offers a flat rate for their drain clearing services, usually between $160 and $450. They base their pricing on the severity and location of the blockage. The price for sewer inspections is included in the clog clearing project cost.

How do you snake a main septic line?

How to clear a main sewer line clog

  1. Step 1: Loosen the cap on the drain pipe. Loosen the cap on the drain pipe.
  2. Step 3: Feed the auger cable into the drain pipe.
  3. Step 4: Run the auger until the clog is clear—and beyond.
  4. Step 5: Hose down the pipe and auger cable.
  5. Step 6: Slowly pull the auger back out of the pipe.

How much does it cost to unclog a main sewer line?

The national average cost to unclog a main sewer line is between $350 and $650, with most people paying around $475 to clean a mid-sized clog by hydro jetting the main sewer pipe between a house and municipal main line.

How much does Hydro jetting pipes cost?

The average cost of hydro jetting can range anywhere from $250 to nearly $1000 and varies depending on everything from how severe the clog is to how dirty the walls of your pipe are, to even where you live.

How much does it cost to replace lateral lines?

FULL REPLACEMENT If you need to get part of the lateral replaced, you will pay between $50 and $200 per linear foot. If you need to get a small piece of the sewer lateral replaced, that will be between $3,000 and $6,000. For sections longer than 50 feet, the cost will be between $5,000 and $13,000.

How long does it take to jet a sewer line?

The average time to perform hydro jetting is about 60 minutes. If you have a lot of cleaning, you can expect about 90 minutes.

Is Roto-Rooter cheaper than a plumber?

The cost of Roto-Rooter services depends on the repair or replacement needed. Pricing may also be impacted by where you live. According to Angie’s List, Roto-Rooter typically charges between $160–$450 for common plumbing issues such as dripping faucets, line repairs, or clogged drains.

How far can Roto-Rooter reach?

That’s how we go about a camera line inspection. Our skilled technicians can get into pipes from 2 inches to 36 inches in diameter without a problem, all while having control of a camera attached to a snake-like rod.

Can I snake my own sewer line?

For smaller clogs, snaking your own drain is possible. Routine, minor sink clogs from hairballs or food remnants are typically located in the U-shaped trap directly below the sink or only a few feet deeper in the drainpipe. They may be cleared by using a light-gauge, hand-operated auger.

How do you know if your sewer line has collapsed?

8 Broken Sewer Line Symptoms

  1. An Odor of Sewer Gas.
  2. Slow Drains.
  3. Clogs and Backups.
  4. Lush, Green Lawn Area.
  5. Soggy Lawn.
  6. Insect and Rodent Infestation.
  7. Mold & Mildew.
  8. Broken Slabs and Wall Cracks.

Can you snake a main sewer line?

A main sewer line can be snaked with a professional drain snaking machine using a heavy duty cable and motor to push through the blockage. Main sewer snaking can be done through a ground level accessible cleanout, a roof vent, or by pulling the toilet and snaking through the flange.

Learn how much it costs to Repair a Clogged Drain.

Get articles, stories, and videos about Systems/ATUs delivered directly to your email. Make your registration right now. Systems/ATUs+ Receive Notifications. It is recommended that the tank be opened with the right liquid level for the tank at the invert of the exit pipe when it is first used. The presence of liquid over this level indicates the presence of a problem. The existing usage of effluent filters, as I said in an earlier piece, is likely to be a source of concern. A buildup of particles has clogged the screen, preventing effluent from exiting the tank.

In order to avoid these backups, the service provider should meet with the homeowner on a regular basis to create a strategy for future maintenance.

Cleansing the tank should be performed, and the service provider should check to see if any water is re-entering the tank through the outflow line.

It is unlikely that a blockage is caused by particles going through the outlet if there is an effluent screen in place; but, if there is no effluent screen, it is possible that a blockage is caused by some form of solid material passing through the tank and collecting at the exit.

  • The simple removal of the item that is creating the obstruction is insufficient to resolve the problem.
  • If the plumbing is not rebuilt and rebedded, blockages will continue to be an issue for the homeowner.
  • Roots in the pipes indicate that there has been a rupture in the pipe that has enabled roots to infiltrate into the system.
  • As an example, if there are roots within the tank at the outlet baffle, this indicates that the seal surrounding the outlet pipe at the baffle will need to be changed in order to prevent the roots from entering.
  • An issue with the distribution system, such as a clogged drop box, might be the cause.
  • In addition, roots may be a source of the problem, which will necessitate root removal, repiping, and watertighting of the boxes.
  • To assess whether or not the soil treatment area has reached capacity and beyond, it will be necessary to either probe the entire area or have access to all portions of the area through inspection ports or the boxes, depending on the circumstances.
  • What causes corrosion near the exit baffles and elsewhere in the tank is the next question to be addressed.
  • He is also an emeritus professor in the university’s Department of Soil, Water, and Climate, as well as the education coordinator for the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWD).

Questions concerning septic system maintenance and operation may be sent to [email protected], or you can visit his website.

Cost To Snake A Drain Calculator

Let’s run some numbers to see what the costs are. What part of the world are you in? What part of the world are you in?

National Average $229
Typical Range $145 – $334
Low End – High End $85 – $600

The cost information in this report is based on real project costs provided by 28,897 HomeAdvisor users.

Plumber Cost to Unclog a Drain

Every one of these projects is estimated by a plumbing specialist utilizing the aflat fee for drain cleaning services. If there are any complications, they will move to an hourly charge. A fixed rate from your plumber means that you will most likely spend less than $530 for the work. You might see your prices slowly rising with an hourly fee, especially if you employ someone with extensive plumbing experience. These professionals normally charge between$70 and$120 per hour for their services, however some charge as much as$200 per hour.

Compare Plumber Quotes For the Best Drain Clearing Price

Despite the fact that basic handheld, manually or drill-activated plumbing snakes often cost less than $25, they can only reach a maximum distance of 25 feet. Generally, these are most effective for small blockages that are placed somewhat close to the sink or toilet. If you need to clear this sort of blockage, you may get a plumbing snake in this style at your local hardware shop. For more difficult clogs that are deep in the pipes, you will need a machine auger, which may cost anywhere from $250 to $3,250 for the more professional versions.

Although the cost of purchasing this specialized technology tends to be more expensive than the cost of hiring a professional, you may reduce your DIY spending by renting the equipment instead.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Drain Snake?

Handheld drain snakes and machine augers can be rented from equipment rental firms and hardware stores for a charge that can be paid on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Handheld drain snakes cost between $35 and $45 per day. Because the weekly and monthly rates are significantly less expensive than the daily rate, if your job will take longer than a day, select one of those alternatives. The cost of a handheld drain snake rental will be around $130 per week or up to $275 per month if you choose this option.

You may anticipate to spend up to $250 per week for the weekly rate, but the monthly rate will only cost you around $500.

Using the proper procedures will assist you avoid causing damage to your plumbing that would necessitate the use of a professional to fix.

Roto-Rooter Drain Cleaning Cost

Roto-Rooter is a nationwide corporation that charges a fixed payment for its drain clearing services, which is typically between $160 and $450 each visit. They base their cost on the severity and location of the obstruction on the road or highway.

The cost of sewer inspections is included in the total cost of the blockage clearance project. If you reside outside of their service area or want assistance after business hours, they may charge a travel or after-hours fee to accommodate your needs.

Compare Plumber Quotes For the Best Drain Clearing Price

When you put off clearing the obstruction, the situation grows increasingly serious. You may eventually need to engage a plumber, who will charge you an hourly cost of up to $200. Depending on the amount of work done, the final cost may vary, but you could anticipate to spend roughly $200, since project prices typically range between $135 and $295. Repairing a little obstruction might cost as low as $85; however, removing a major blockage can cost as much as $530. The degree of obstructions varies, ranging from reducing drain rates to completely stopping water from exiting the system completely.

Cost for a Plumber to Unclog a Toilet

The cost of hiring a plumber to unclog a toilet is comparable to the cost of hiring a plumber to unclog your other pipes. You may anticipate to spend a plumber between $110 and $275 to restore the functionality of your toilet in the majority of cases. Despite the fact that this is a less pleasant operation than unblocking a sink, you can still accomplish it yourself if you acquire a home snake tool for between $15 and $30. Additionally, you might choose to utilize a specialist toilet auger to remedy this issue.

Cost to Unclog Kitchen SinkGarbage Disposal

A fixed rate of between $110 and $215 is charged by a plumber to unclog a clogged sink. If difficulties emerge, however, your repair expenses may begin to escalate as a result of charges for minimum labor amounts and call-out fees, which are usual practice. As a result, it is sometimes significantly less expensive to attempt to remove a small drain clog on your own. If your sink is equipped with a trash disposal, however, hiring a professional could be your best option. It’s necessary to remove the drain trap fitting and dig out the debris using a scrub brush in order to perform this task.

If all else fails, it is possible that you may need to replace your garbage disposal.

Cost to Clear Blocked Drain in Bathtub or Shower

On average, you can expect to pay $225 to have a clogged bathtub or shower drain unclogged. Even with frequent cleaning, the drain pipes in the bathtub and shower rapidly become clogged with material such as hair, filth, and soap scum, among other things. The debris adheres to the interior surfaces of the pipe, causing a blockage to form. You may notice that water drainage is becoming slower as a result of this. Taking action quickly might help you avoid the need for clog removal services in the future.

Clearing a Main Line Cost

If you need a plumber to snake your main sewage line, you could expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $800. The cost of clearing a main line is very variable and is determined by the severity of the obstruction, the distance snaked, and the length of time it takes to complete the task.

It is possible to hire an industrial snake for as little as $30 to $70 a day, but this is an unpleasant job that you should probably leave to a professional.

Compare Plumber Quotes For the Best Drain Clearing Price

You should expect to pay between $100 and $800 to have a plumber snake a major sewage line. The cost of clearing a main line is very variable and is determined by the severity of the obstruction, the distance snaked, and the length of time it will take to complete the job. It is possible to hire an industrial snake for as little as $30 to $70 per day, but this is an unpleasant task that you should usually leave to a professional.

  • You should expect to pay between $100 and $800 to have a plumber snake a major sewage line. The cost of clearing a main line is very variable and is determined by the severity of the obstruction, the distance snaked, and the length of time it takes to complete the job. You can hire an industrial snake for $30 to $70, but this is a tedious process that you should usually leave to the professionals.
See also:  How Is A Steel Septic Tank Made? (Solved)

When to Call a Plumber for a Clogged Drain

In most cases, hiring a professional plumber to unclog a clogged drain is a good idea, but it is not always necessary. A plumbing snake may be able to clear clogs from a single pipe if the blockage is small. It is more likely that there is a blockage in the main sewer line when the obstruction affects many plumbing fittings. Immediately shut off your water supply and contact an emergency drain cleaning firm if you detect a problem with your plumbing system.

Need a Plumber? Find the Best, Pre-screened Plumbers Near You

It is possible to manage a single pipe blockage on your own if you follow the instructions outlined in this article.

Use a Plunger

Plungers work by creating a seal around the clogged drain and then sucking the obstruction out using suction. Always use the proper sort of plunger for the sink or toilet, as directed by the manufacturer.

Try a Chemical Drain Cleaner

You might try to break up the components that are creating the blockage by using a powerful drain cleaner. If you use acid-based cleaners on your drain without caution, they may remove the finish off the drain. They also emit unpleasant gases and inflict chemical burns when they come into touch with them. Whenever possible, use protective equipment and adhere to all of the manufacturer’s directions on the label when traveling this route.

Remove the Trap

Removing the U-shaped trap to clear a clog under a sink or tub basin is simple if you have easy access to the pipes beneath the sink or tub basin. Make sure you have a bucket underneath the basin to capture any water that drains. Some traps are easily removed by hand, while others require the use of slip-joint pliers in order to be moved at all.

Snake the Drain

Small household snakes are generally affordable and simple to operate, making them an excellent choice for beginners. A machine auger is required when there is a blockage in the main line. You should look around for the most affordable plumber if you do want their services. When hiring a plumber, make an effort to obtain at least three quotations from which to pick, but keep in mind that you get what you pay for. It is well worth the money to choose a certified and insured plumber who has a long list of satisfied customers and outstanding recommendations.

How to Prevent Clogged Drains

Chemical drain cleaners purchased at a shop can help you avoid clogs, but they can also cause corrosion and damage to your plumbing system over time. However, non-corrosive bacteriological drain cleaners are more mild, but they cost roughly $16 per gallon of water. Drain cleaning may be done in a more cost-effective manner by following the methods outlined below:

  • Pouring hot water into a PVC plumbing system is not recommended. The highest temperature of water that may be used in PVC systems is 140 degrees Fahrenheit
  • However, there are several exceptions.
  1. Pour in 1/2 cup of baking soda and set aside for a few minutes. One cup vinegar and one cup hot water should be poured down the sink drain. Allow for a 10-minute resting period. Using hot water, flush the toilet.

Keeping your drains clear of dirt after you have cleaned them is important. Don’t put too much food down the garbage disposal, and don’t pour grease down the drains either.

Remember to clean out your pipes of any clumps of loose hair that may have accumulated. This process will be made easier if you invest in metal screens that are snugly fitted to all of your drains. Maintenance on a regular basis will help you prevent having to pay for drain cleaning services.

FAQs

Plumbers charge a fixed payment for all of their services, with the exception of the most serious blockages. Although most drain clearing services only cost $115 in most cases, their rates range from $85 to $530. If the scope of the plumbing service extends beyond snaking the drain, the pricing may be changed to an hourly rate for labor plus any extra part costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Drain Lines?

Although uncommon, significant blockages might necessitate the replacement of drain pipes, which can cost anywhere from $360 to well over $3,000 depending on the severity of the clog. Replace drain lines that require trenching at a significantly higher cost than simple line replacement that is easily accessible will result in a significantly higher price tag. This will cost around $100 per foot and need at least 14 hours of effort.

What Can I Pour Down a Clogged Drain?

When determining what to use to unclog a clogged drain, enzyme drain cleaner is a good choice because it is gentle on the blockage material. If $ 16 per gallon is too much for your budget, you may build your own plumbing-friendly drain cleaning out of baking soda and white vinegar, which is far less expensive.

How Long Does It Take to Snake a Drain?

It may only take five minutes to snake a drain for loose obstructions that are found around the tub, toilet, or sink basin, according to the manufacturer. Clogs near the main line, on the other hand, might take many hours to clear, especially if they impact numerous pipes at the same time. Plumbers have the necessary skills, knowledge, and equipment to do the task considerably more quickly, however you may have to pay a premium for their services.

How Long of a Plumbing Snake Do I Need?

Alternatively, if your 25-foot portable snake is incapable of reaching the clog, you may attempt one of the larger versions with lengths of 50, 75, or even 100 feet. When determining the length of a plumbing snake you require, all you have to do is test it against the clog to see whether it even makes contact with it.

Still Have Questions? Ask Pre-Screened Plumbers Near You.

If many fixtures in your house begin to back up, it is possible that you have a plugged sewer line. In this case, if you start hearing gurgling from many fixtures and the water is not draining, it’s definitely time to call a plumber, since gurgling is a telltale symptom of a clogged main line that has to be cleared. A clogged drain can be caused by a variety of factors, including an overfilled septic tank, which is why you should consult a plumber about the best course of action to take in order to resolve the problem.

It’s important to note that not all plumbers will perform a septic tank inspection, so make sure to speak fully with them before having them out.

They can also send a camera through your system, but this isn’t always necessary unless the snaking yields no results in the first place.

Also, keep in mind that “free camera inspections” are occasionally used as bait for an upsell scam.

How Does Snaking a Sewer Line Work?

Sewer snaking, also known as rodding, is a drain-cleaning technique that employs a drain-cleaning equipment fitted with a cable and auger that is stretched through your pipe until it reaches the obstruction (and drills through it). It is possible that your main line access plug is blocked, in which case a snake from a higher position in your home will be necessary to prevent trash from flowing out. Frequently, they’ll remove a toilet and insert a tube into the bowl. They have even been known to infiltrate via the roof septic pipe in extreme circumstances.

In order to reach and drill through the clog, the auger expands and rotates through the plumbing system until it does so.

Although you may need to have the pipe repaired in this situation, there are chemical remedies that may be utilized instead (for an additional fee).

How Much does Snaking a Sewer Line Cost?

Snaking the main line can cost anywhere from $175 and $300 for simple operations and up to $500 for more sophisticated ones, depending on the complexity of the job. Typically, $300 is the going rate. A less expensive option is to snake your line through an access port or the septic tank entrance rather than through the tank itself. The cost to remove and reseal your toilet ranges from $100 to $150 depending on the size of the toilet and the difficulty of the removal. When your main line backs up, the pressure from the backup might cause the seal on your toilet to blow, necessitating the need to replace it.

As a result of the need to dig up and repair or replace broken pipes, especially those on the exterior, you can anticipate paying a significant amount more than you would otherwise.

Replacement of hidden pipes in the ground might cost anything from $1000-$4000.

Other Ways to Clean a Sewer Line

There is another technique of cleaning a sewage line that is a little more comprehensive, but it is also a little more expensive: the use of a hydrojet. Hydrojets range in price from $350 to $600. They are more frequently seen in industrial settings, but they can also be found in residential settings. A hydrojet is a machine that feeds water into a head that blasts water out, clearing the clog and cleaning the pipe around the obstruction. Septic augers may not be large enough to clear out the whole blockage since their diameter is significantly less than the pipe through which they are traveling.

  1. However, a plumber or sewer cleaning business should be able to advise you on the best course of action for your situation.
  2. If you have a complicated problem, the cost might be significantly more.
  3. For example, do they conduct both interior and outdoor plumbing repair, as well as checking the septic system?
  4. If you can locate a plumber who can handle all of those services, you may be able to save money on service costs, depending on how much they charge each service.
  5. In the event that your project turns out to be large and expensive, don’t be afraid to obtain numerous bids.
  6. Also, check out our articles on toilet reseating and septic tank cleaning.

For best results, flush twice for number two and avoid using thick toilet paper (we’re not mentioning brands) to avoid clogging the main sewage line. Please accept our sincere thanks for posing for our photographs on behalf of Plumber’s Service of Milford, Michigan.

How Much Does Sewer or Drain Cleaning Cost?

Do-It-Yourself: $10-$75+ Plumber, Simple Clog: $50-$450+ Plumber, Snake Main Line: $100-$800+
  • Plumbers may charge a set cost for a project or an hourly rate ranging from $45 to $150 or more per hour. Despite the fact that some contractors may offer a preliminary estimate over the phone, many will want to visit the job in person before providing a solid price. When it comes to unclogging sink or tub drains, it can cost anywhere from $50 to $450, depending on the complexity of the clog and the time it takes to complete the service call. (This does not include a blockage in the main sewage line) (there can be extra charges for evenings, weekends, holidays or immediate response). For example, readers of CostHelper report paying between $52 and $430 to unclog a sink or tub, with an average cost of $226. Having a plumbing specialist unclog a toilet can cost anywhere from $65 to $250 or more for a small impediment that is only in the toilet (rather than the main sewer line). To unclog a toilet, CostHelper readers report paying between $95 and $210 on average. If turning on a faucet or flushing the toilet produces backflow in another fixture like a tub, shower, or sink, it is likely that the main home sewage line is clogged. Having a plumbing firm clean your family sewer line by “snaking” it with a long cable device and cutting head may cost anywhere from $100 to $800 or more, depending on the distance snaked, local rates, and the time of day you schedule the appointment. A few organizations offer unclogging services for a fixed charge of $50-$60, but numerous customers have stated that they were forced to subscribe to extra services that were prohibitively expensive. CostHelper users report spending between $148 and $900 to have a main residential sewer line snaked, with an average cost of $410. The unclogging operation may discover broken or damaged pipes, which they report paying between $148 and $900. Depending on the length and depth of the sewer lines that need to be replaced, the kind of replacement pipe used, and the rates in your area, sewer line repair can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000. Depending on what is needed, do-it-yourself supplies for cleaning a sewer or drain might cost anywhere from $10 to $75 or more. A 50′-100′ industrial-quality sewage snake may be rented for between $29 and $70, with an average cost of $55 according to CostHelper readers
Related articles:Unclogging a Drain,Unclogging a Toilet,Sewer Inspection,Sewer Line Replacement,Plumber
What should be included:
  • A plumber would often identify the clean out (which is typically a y-shaped fitting near where the pipe leaves the home) and snake a cable with a cutting head into the main sewage line between the house and the connection to the public sewer system. A plumber from Wisconsin explains how to snake a sewage pipe. snaking and jetting are both discussed in detail in this video by a Florida plumber.
  • Cleaning a sewage line may involve a video camera inspection of the inside of the pipes, which some firms include in the overall cost of the cleaning. If it is not included, there might be an extra charge ranging from $100 to $800.
  • Cleaning a sewage line may involve a video camera inspection of the inside of the pipes, which some firms include in the overall cost of the job. This may result in a fee of $100-800 if it is not included in the price.
CostHelper News
What People Are Paying – Recent Comments
Posted by:Angela Bettencourt in PHOENIX, AZ. Posted:May 14th, 2021 04:05PM
Cleaner:C.R.WELLMANco. Type of Obstruction:Wipes and paper
I have a child that is wiping his own butt now and hasn’t mastered the less is more theory yet. I had a clog in the sewer main approx 47feet out. Chase from C.R.WELLMANco. 928-350-5383 Phoenix area worked diligently to get the drain cleared so that we could shower and use toilets by morning. In addition he spent hrs with the cleanup and sanitizing inside and out of the home. Then only charged me 100$ cause it was coming on mother’s day. Other companies quoted me 10$ per foot of snake which would have been over 500$ plus the fee for the service call. Would definitely recommend him.
Posted by:tulipox in san rafael, CA. Posted:August 25th, 2020 11:08PM
Cleaner:local plumber Type of Obstruction:unknown
first floor toilets bubbling, backing up sewage into tub. called plumber. house is on a hill so cleanout not in easy spot to use, so he wanted to use the heavy duty snake from the toilet. two man job just to bring the snake in the house. removed toilet, cleared blockage. a little over an hour. nice hourly wage!
Posted by:Roto-Rooter Rip-Off in Vero Beach, FL. Posted:August 7th, 2019 07:08AM
Cleaner:Roto Rooter Type of Obstruction:basic kitchen clog
WARNING! Roto-Rooter is a RIP-OFF, wouldn’t tell me before they came out that their flat rate is $370. That is so much more than any local plumber would have charged me. Thought RR would have been competitive but after checking around, the work they did would have cost at least $300 less by a local plumber.
Posted by:Wexy in Ellicott city, MD. Posted:December 8th, 2017 04:12PM
Cleaner:Roto Rooter Type of Obstruction:Sewer Backup
Basement sewer backed up and got toilet overflow. I could not use laundry machine for a week. I did everything I could for a week. After 1 week, 10 pm Thursday night, I called roto rooter. Technician came at 11pm and did the job for 2 hours. He used roto rooter snake 100′. He removed toilet bowl in basement and did snake 2times. Got cleaning wipes out after all. Snake reached 85′. I paid $740 and I think that was way too much. I regret to hire Roto Rooter cuz I did not compare the estimate with other companies. I should have done this myself using home depot rental powered snake for $60. That was a bitter sweet moment.
Posted by:Snaked in Edgewater, NJ. Posted:September 28th, 2017 09:09AM
Main line backed up and come up through basement shower. I rented a small snake from Depo but for major blockage you can’t use these small drills. You need a huge snake. Two young guys showed up and they said $250 for starters and $95 ever 10 feet of snake. I knew the cost would be the max at this point and sure enough they charged $950 which was 95 feet of snake, the full length of their snake. A scam.
Posted by:NT in Alameda, CA. Posted:May 11th, 2017 03:05PM
Cleaner: Type of Obstruction:Blockage
we had two upstairs toilets not draining. Plumber had to take both out, snake the main line and r-install toilets.
Posted by:z in oak park, MI. Posted:March 16th, 2017 06:03PM
Cleaner: Type of Obstruction:grease/possible more
wanted camera, but dispatcher sayz not for small pipes, so I said send him anyway. he charged me to snake it and wants me to make a appointment for a 100 snake check from his company. there might be a break in the line.
Posted by:george kraus in Torrington, CT. Posted:December 13th, 2016 04:12PM
Cleaner:Dan’s Discount Rooter Type of Obstruction:Paper,medical gauze,baby wipes
Posted by:MTR in Sanford, FL. Posted:July 27th, 2016 08:07PM
Cleaner:Frank Gay Services Type of Obstruction:Clorox Clean Wipe
Had water back up in downstairs shower of 3 1/2 bath house after doing 4 loads of laundry. Tried everything I could as a DIYer, except renting a powered “snake” from box store. No other drainage problems throughout house. Apparently this was not a complete block as water did go down. There are a lot of trees in yard and house is 55 years old. so I thought the worst. FGS ran a powered snake down toilet pipe after removal (by me). Pulled out small amount of fibered material that looked like clean wipes, no roots or plant matter. They tried to sell me on cutting pipe to put in a cleanout, scoping and possible pipe replacement. I paid $380 for what I could have done for $50. now I know. I was happy with service, just seemed expensive.
Posted by:KJGP in Saint Louis, MO. Posted:July 2nd, 2016 03:07PM
Cleaner:Roto Rooter Type of Obstruction:Clog
Posted by:Chris Chugg in Batavia, NY. Posted:March 13th, 2016 06:03AM
Cleaner:Roto rooter Type of Obstruction:House trap clogged
About4to6feet of snake. Half hour. This normal price? Saturday afternoon.
Posted by:Sanjosemom in San Jose, CA. Posted:August 20th, 2015 01:08PM
Cleaner:Midas Type of Obstruction:Roots
Called in morning and arrived as promised on time. Easy outdoor access to drain clean out in front yard. Set up auger and cleaned both ways. Cleared root obstruction. Took about 30 minutes from arrival to departure.
Posted by:Lumberjack man in Palisades park, NJ. Posted:June 14th, 2015 09:06AM
Cleaner:Rao rooter Type of Obstruction:Roots
We had water in the basement. Anthony came and snaked the main line within an hour he had pulled out three big sections of roots. And he offered to camera the line at no extra charge. Year was 2015. Their number 917 588 0408
Posted by:joe vin in westlake, OH. Posted:May 11th, 2015 06:05PM
Cleaner:Micah Calster Type of Obstruction:clogged
25 mts of job, clean work, 50 ft of snake run, flush the drain with water to make sure it’s free from obstruction
Posted by:AllanWalledLake in Walled Lake, MI. Posted:May 11th, 2015 01:05PM
Cleaner:MI Drain Cleaning Type of Obstruction:Roots
I had water coming from my basement floor drain and I called a company to tell me how much it would cost to repair or service the drain. They charged me $99 and snaked out the main sewer line. Found roots, offered me some $100+ chemical. I declined and has been open ever since.
Posted by:s b in doylestown, PA. Posted:April 19th, 2015 10:04AM
Cleaner:ZOOM DRAIN Type of Obstruction:
Came out and the customer has been having issues with the main drain backing up. They called out horizon but they were unable to reach the blockage. They had removed a toilet to access the line. They did not reinstall the toilet. I reinstalled the toilet because I was able to locate outside access at the rear of the house. Once the toilet was reinstalled I powercleaned the main drain. Powercleaned the line going back towards the house first. Powercleaned this section of the line several times to ensure a proper cleaning. Powercleaned from the cleanout going out towards the city sewer. I was able to get the hose out about 110′. Pushed the camera out to this point and found a very large root mass in the pipe. Video inspected the line going back into the house and found this section of the line is clean and clear.
Posted by:Bob P. in Roanoke, VA. Posted:March 28th, 2015 10:03AM
Cleaner:JC Plumbing Type of Obstruction:Unknown blockage
Toilets in house started bubbling and tubs started backing up. Septic system was pumped out 4-months ago.
Posted by:a chinese homeowner in San Gabriel, CA. Posted:February 6th, 2015 02:02PM
Cleaner:Shun Lee Handy Type of Obstruction:root
Gavin used snake up to 100ft to clean out root blockage. Don’t know much of the details of what he did as I wasn’t around. At most a couple hours of work. Year is not 2014 but 2015.
Posted by:a user in Kewanee, IL. Posted:December 31st, 2014 08:12AM
Cleaner: Type of Obstruction:Build up
Laundry drain and shower drain. Old house, drains were corroded and just general build up in trap and pipes. Shower was a pretty yucky mess.
Posted by:THEMAGICPLUMBER.PLUMBING in San Jose, CA. Posted:July 16th, 2014 12:07AM
Cleaner:the magic plumber Type of Obstruction:roots and sludge buildup
45 minutes to unload machine with 5/8 cable and 4 inch blade 30ft. run to clog and additional 25ft. run to the city lateral to make it a 55 ft. of total cable run plus a second run out to sewer lateral to make sure its free from obstructions and any solids that may clog the drain again. run water for 10 minutes to make sure its not clogged clean the area with sanitizer and wash down plus a six month workmanship warranty against clogs under normal usage and against roots that caused the blockage in the first place. its not the unclogging that is done to prevent it from functioning is how you perform the service to make sure the clogging doesn’t come back for at least a couple of years instead of the normal 6 to 1 year period which is a common issue for most home owners. commercial buildings on another hand normally don’t get warranties because we the service provider cannot control what the employees or outside crowds flush down the drains or sewer lines. you would be surprised!
Posted by:a user in Lambs Grove, IA. Posted:July 9th, 2014 03:07PM
Cleaner: Type of Obstruction:Roots
Posted by:ESz in Falls Church, VA. Posted:July 6th, 2014 08:07PM
Cleaner: Type of Obstruction:Blockage (Build Up)
To access the main sewage line, one need to remove the downstairs toilet in a small carpeted area. It was really difficult to access and the plumber had difficulty getting the roto-rooter in there. I felt we paid a lot but he was out within an hour on a Saturday.
Posted by:Erincaldwell in Dayton, OH. Posted:July 22nd, 2013 10:07AM
Cleaner:All Drain Type of Obstruction:Rag stuck in pipe
Our main drain is in a crawl space so it’s tough to get at. That made the cost a bit more.
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2022 Cost To Snake A Drain

The typical cost of a plumber to snake a drain is $100 to $275, depending on whether the drain is in a toilet, sink, tub, shower, or laundry. The typical cost of snakeing a main line is from $150 to $500 per line. The cost of a drain snake from Roto-Rooter ranges from $225 to $500 on average. Drain snake rental is priced between $30 and $80 per day.

Type Average Cost
Simple Clog In Tub, Shower, Toilet, Sink, or Vent $100 – $275
Complex Clog / Main Line / Multiple Fixtures $150 – $500
Severe Clog Requiring Hydro Jetting $250 – $800

*The cost of the service is determined by the severity of the clog. Some plumbers require a minimum service fee ranging from $50 to $200.

  • Drain blockages can be identified by the following signs: gurgling sounds, water backing up or pooling, water draining slowly, toilet not flushing, or foul aromas. Drain snakes are used to clear obstructions in drains that are near the tub, toilet, or sink
  • They take around five minutes to complete. Clogs in the main sewer line affect all of the drains and fixtures at the same time.

Plumber Cost To Unclog Drain

Plumbers charge between $75 and $550 per hour to unclog a drain, based on the hourly rate, accessibility, severity, and reason of the obstruction in question. For routine drain cleaning, most plumbers charge a fixed cost, however unclogging serious drains is charged at a rate of $45 to $150 per hour, plus parts.

Plumber Cost To Unclog Drain

NationalAverage Cost $216
Minimum Cost $75
Maximum Cost $550
Average Range $100to$275

Plumbers in your area will provide you with free estimates. Pros can be found here.

Drain Rodding Cost Factors

  • Labor–Plumbing estimates vary based on the size of the project, the distance traveled, the location, and the time of year. Trip Cost– While some plumbers provide free estimates, some charge a call-out fee ranging from $50 to $200, which generally covers the first hour of work. Accessibility– Main line clogs are more difficult to clear than tub or sink basin clogs, for example. Some jobs include accessing several connection points or removing the toilet for a short period of time. When it comes to the severity of the clog, most blockages can be snaked out in five minutes, but a severe main line clog that requires a video camera examination may take several hours to unclog and may require a video camera inspection. Factors Contributing to the Blocked Pipe — Hair, food waste, grime, and soap scum are less difficult to unblock than tree roots, damaged pipes, or grease. Damage that was not anticipated– Plumbers may be required to replace plumbing pipelines, toilet pieces, or trash disposals.

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Roto-Rooter Cost

Snake pipes and clean drains with Roto-Rooter typically cost between $225 and $500. On average, a Roto-Rooter sewer camera inspection costs between $295 and $350. Hydro jetting using a roto-rooter costs on average between $500 and $900 to clear a major sewage drain.

Service Average Cost
Service Call / Trip Charge $70 – $200
Snake Pipes / Drain Cleaning $225 – $500
Hydro Jetting $500 – $900
Camera Inspection $295 – $350

A national franchise, Roto-Rooter offers a flat rate pricing structure to each of its franchisees. Typically, a plumber will estimate the charges after performing an on-site service visit. Some Roto-Rooter franchisees charge a trip fee ranging from $70 to $200, which may be removed from your bill if you want to have the job done. Return to the top of the page

How Much Is A Plumbing Snake?

When dealing with small obstructions around the sink basin or toilet, a handheld or drill-activated plumbing snake may be purchased for $15 to $100 and can reach up to 25 feet. The usual cost of a machine-powered plumbing snake is from $250 to $1,000, and it can reach distances of 50 to 75 feet for most home blockages.

Size Average Cost
Handheld / Drill (3′ – 25′) $15 – $100
Machine Auger (50′ – 75′) $250 – $1,000
Heavy-Duty Sewer Machine $1,000 – $3,500

Drain snake pricing are determined by the type of snake, the length of the cable, and the diameter of the cable. Mini-rooters, toilet augers, top snakes, and snakes for huge drains are some of the several types of plumbing snakes available.

What Size Drain Snake Do I Need?

Drain snakes are available in lengths ranging from 25′ to 100′. Showers, tubs, and bathroom sinks can be unclogged using a 25-foot snake. A 50′ to 75′ plumbing snake may be used to clear washing machines, bathroom and kitchen sinks, and roof vents, to name a few applications. Drains 3 inches or greater can be unblocked with a 75-100 foot snake. A toilet auger is a special type of auger that is designed exclusively for toilets.

Size Used To Unclog
25′ Showers, tubs, bathroom sinks
50′ – 75′ Washing machines, bathroom or kitchen sinks, roof vents
75′ – 100′ For drains 3 inches or larger, cleanouts to the street
Toilet Auger Snake specifically made for toilets

*Using the incorrect type or size of plumbing snake might result in damage to the pipelines. Return to the top of the page

Drain Snake Rental Cost

It costs between $30 and $80 per day to hire a drain snake.

It costs between$125 and $300 per week or between$300 and $1,000 per month to rent a drain snake, depending on the machine’s auger size. The renting of a portable plumbing snake ranges from $10 to $15 per day. Plumbing snakes may be rented from Home Depot and Lowe’s, among other places.

Size Day Week Month
Toilet Auger $10 – $15 $25 – $50 $75 – $150
Small (25′) $25 – $50 $100 – $150 $200 – $450
Medium (50′ – 75′) $40 – $80 $130 – $300 $350 – $800
Large (100′) $60 – $100 $200 – $400 $500 – $1,000
Drain Camera $100 – $200 $300 – $800 $1,000 – $2,200

*A deposit of $100 to $150 is normally required when renting a machine auger. Machine augers are difficult to control and can cause damage to pipes as well as a danger of harm if they are not handled properly.

  • When a drain snake is used with too much power, the end might flop around, scraping the pipe at the other end. Scratches cause the coating to get damaged, resulting in fractures or corrosion in the pipes. A drain snake’s coil wire can rebound at rapid rates, resulting in significant harm if not handled properly. If you are unclear of how to utilize a snake, you should consult with a professional plumber.

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Drain Cleaning Cost By Service

Drain cleaning ranges in price from $100 to $275 on average for a toilet, sink, tub, or shower drain, among other things. Cleaning many fixtures at the same time or clearing difficult obstructions in the main line might cost between $200 and $800. The most cost-effective method is to remove the obstruction as soon as possible in order to avoid the condition from deteriorating.

Location Average Cost
Toilet $100 – $275
Kitchen Sink $100 – $220
Bathroom Sink / Tub / Shower $100 – $250
Laundry Drain $150 – $250
Main Line $200 – $800

Drain cleaners in your area can provide you with free quotations. Pros can be found here.

Plumber Cost To Unclog a Toilet

Plumbers charge between $100 and $275 per hour to unclog a toilet on average. Plumbers charge differently based on whether a toilet snake can unclog the clog or whether the toilet needs to be removed in order to clear the obstruction. A toilet snake ranges in price from $10 to $30 for do-it-yourself projects.

  • If the unpleasant stench lingers after snaking the toilet, toilet repair will cost between $10 and $25 to fix a fractured flange or wax ring in the toilet. A new toilet wax ring costs between $2 and $10 if you do it yourself. If backflow is also occurring from other drains, it is probable that the main sewage line will need to be cleansed of tree roots and debris, which will increase the overall cost.

Cost To Unclog Kitchen SinkGarbage Disposal

It typically costs between $100 and $220 to unclog a kitchen sink. Whenever a trash disposal is being used to unclog a sink, the plumber must first make sure that the appliance is not causing the problem. The drain trap fitting and drain arm are then removed, and the pipes are snaked as a result. If the sink is still blocked after snaking, a new garbage disposal would cost between $185 and $379 on average, depending on the model.

Cost To Clear Blocked Drain in Tub or Shower

The average cost of snakeing a tub drain is from $100 to $250 per tub. Bathtubs and showers become clogged with hair, filth, and soap scum and must be cleaned on a regular basis. The drain assembly and cover plate must be removed in order to clear a clogged shower or tub drain. A drain auger must be used in order to completely remove the blockage.

Main Line Drain Clearing Cost

It costs $150 to $800 to clear a main sewer line, depending on the method (snaking or hydro jetting), the severity of the blockage, the accessibility, and the amount of work. If your pipes are emitting foul odors or making gurgling sounds, if many fixtures are draining slowly, or if you have sewage backup, the main line is likely obstructed. It is always advisable to have a professional plumber clear main line obstructions. Sewer pipes that are broken, fractured, or collapsed may require replacement.

Plumbing Vent Cleaning Cost

On average, plumbing vent cleaning costs between $100 and $200. Bad odors, poor drainage, gurgling noises, or when someone flushes a sink and another sink makes a noise are all indications that the stack is not venting properly. The use of an open cover or screen at the end of the vent pipe helps to prevent debris from blocking the vent pipe. Return to the top of the page

Signs of A Clogged Drain

  • There is bubbling, gurgling, or no flushing noise coming from the toilet. In the vicinity of the sink, tub, shower, toilet, or laundry area there is water backed up or pooling. The water drains slowly from the sink, tub, commode, or shower stalls. A number of plumbing fittings are clogged at the same time
  • From the sewers are pouring foul scents
  • Water is dripping from a cleanout plug in the basement

Common Causes of Clogged Drains

  • Hair, filth, soap scum, and toothpaste accumulate in the bathroom sink and tub. Kitchen Sink – Buildup of grease, fat, soap scum, and food waste from the garbage disposal
  • Toilet – Wipes, pads, paper towels, toilet paper, cat litter, and feminine items accumulate on the toilet
  • Toilet bowl – Mold, mildew, algae, fungus, lime, plants, and mineral deposits in the air conditioning drain
  • Tree roots, damaged pipes, and other detritus are found in the main line.

When to Call a Plumber for a Clogged Drain

Pliers and plumbing snakes can be used to clear minor clogs in a single pipe that are not too widespread.

A plumber, on the other hand, can rapidly and safely remove clogged drains and other plumbing issues. When should you call a plumber to unclog a clog?

  • The situation is chaotic and is growing, such as sewage backlog, floods, or standing water
  • And As soon as the obstruction begins to impact many plumbing fixtures or each and every drain in the house, it’s likely that the main sewage line is clogged. The clog is preventing a crucial location, such as the kitchen sink or the main bathroom, from functioning properly. When using a plunger or a drain snake, the obstruction cannot be removed

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DIY Costs To Unblock A Drain

It is feasible to do your own drain cleaning on individual drains that have minimal clogs. Before you contact a plumber, try some of these alternatives.

Method Average Cost
Plunger $4 – $20
Chemical Drain Cleaner $5 – $70
Water-Powered Pulsating Valve $15 – $30
Toilet Auger $10 – $15
Snake Rental $30 – $80 per day

Use a Plunger

Sink and toilet plungers employ suction to unclog obstructions and bring debris to the surface of the sink or toilet. Check to verify that the plunger is the correct type and size for the fixture before using it. After applying a chemical drain cleaner, always turn off the trash disposal machine and avoid plunging immediately after.

Chemical Drain Cleaner

Chemical drain cleaners such as Drano, Green Gobbler, or Liquid-Plumr are completely safe to use with either plastic or metal pipes when used according to the guidelines on the container. When cleaning with acidic chemical cleaners that contain sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, avoid using them since they might cause pipe damage if used improperly. Making a DIY drain cleaning solution out of baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water is another alternative for preventing blockages in the future.

Clean Out Trap

The P-trap or U-shaped pipe beneath the tub or sink basin can be removed in order to free any obstruction.

  1. Place a bucket beneath the P-trap
  2. And To remove the two coupling nuts, use pliers to pry them apart. Using a straightened wire coat hanger or a brush, clean the interior of the trap. If the trap is clean, try inserting a drain snake to see if it helps. Dismantle the trap and put it back together.

Another alternative for unclogging a clogged P-trap is to use a water-driven pulsing valve, such as a Drain King Kit, which is powered by water.

Snake The Drain

Drain snakes are available for purchase or rental at home improvement stores to unclog obstructions at an inexpensive price. Using the incorrect size or kind of plumbing snake, on the other hand, may cause the clog to go farther down the drain, to loop back on itself, or to scrape the pipe, resulting in damage. When a drain snake fails to clear a blockage, or if the main line is clogged, a professional plumber should be called to help. Return to the top of the page

How To Prevent Drains From Clogging

Drains that are not maintained on a regular basis will become blocked.

  • It is beneficial to install metal screens and sink traps, which gather hair and debris and help keep drains clean. The typical cost of installing a water softener ranges from $850 to $3,000, and it eliminates mineral buildup that can clog pipes. Keep fats, oils, and grease out of the drain and away from the garbage disposal. It is best not to throw things like coffee grounds or bones down the garbage disposal. Other things to avoid include nuts, pits, corn husks, shells, spaghetti and oats as well as onion skins, potato peels, fruit rinds, pumpkin, and fibrous vegetables. Prevent anything other than toilet paper from being flushed down the toilet. When a tub, shower, or sink drains slowly, you may make a DIY drain cleaner out of baking soda and vinegar that is both inexpensive and efficient.

Homemade Drain Cleaner

The following are the steps to make a DIY drain cleaning solution:

  1. The first step is to dump a saucepan of boiling water down the sink drain. After that, flush 1 cup of baking soda down the toilet. Next, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup vinegar in a mixing bowl
  2. Stir well. Allow for 10 to 20 minutes of waiting time after covering with the drain stopper. Using hot water, flush the drains once more.

Try using a stronger chemical solution or hiring a plumber if this remedy does not unclog the drain. Return to the top of the page

Frequently Asked Questions

Plumbers spend around five minutes snakeing a drain to check for obstructions in areas such as the tub, toilet, or sink. A main line sewer backup might take many hours to clear, depending on the length and number of pipes impacted by the blockage.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Drain Lines?

In rare instances, significant obstructions may need the replacement of the drain pipes. Drain line replacement can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500 on average, depending on the size of the portion of pipe being replaced. Costs vary depending on the type of drain material used, the amount of time required for replacement, the location in the home, and accessibility. Do you have any other questions? Inquire with a plumbing professional. Pros can be found here. Return to the top of the page

Tips For Hiring A Drain Cleaning Plumber

Before calling a plumber to unclog your drain, be sure you do the following:

  • Obtain at least three different estimates to compare. Find out who to ask for referrals from: family, friends, and neighbors Check out HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for customer reviews and examples of their prior work. Look for firms that are insured and bonded, and that have been in operation for at least five years. Avoid picking the cheapest quotation since the quality may deteriorate as a result. Inquire about a documented warranty for their work, including any replacement components. It is best not to make significant payments beforehand and to never pay in cash.

On HomeGuide, you can get free estimates from reputable plumbing contractors: Request no-obligation estimates.

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