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The cost to unclog a drain varies based on the location and severity of the clog. For simple clogs within your home, such as in a sink, toilet, or shower, hiring a plumber typically costs between $110 and $350, with an average of around $200. Snaking a toilet or sink usually costs between $110 and $275, while a bathtub or shower clog costs about $225.

For a more serious clog in the main sewer line, the cost is higher. Clearing a main line clog generally costs between $200 and $600, with an average of about $380. However, prices can range from as low as $100 for snaking a minor clog to over $1,600, particularly if advanced methods like video inspection and hydrojetting are needed for a large or hard-to-reach blockage. Some severe main line clogs can cost upwards of $1,000 to clear depending on factors like the cause of the clog, its distance from an accessible cleanout, and whether the pipe is located beneath an occupied space (e.g., in an apartment building). You may be able to save money on minor clogs by using a drain snake or bladder yourself.

If you try a drain snake and various DIY methods for unclogging drains to no avail, bring in a professional plumber to assess the situation. Also, if multiple drains in your home are backing up or you smell sewage, a visit from a plumber is best. You can expect your drain cleaning costs to fall around $250, and this can include an assessment of what’s caught in your plumbing and if there’s a larger, underlying problem. You should also consider calling a pro if you need to snake a toilet, as DIYing this could lead to a cracked fixture.

There are several signs that can indicate you have air in your pipes, including unusual noises coming from the pipes, like banging and whistling, and inconsistent water flow and pressure. Spitting from the faucet right when you turn the water on is another indication that you might have air in the pipes.

While some chemical drain cleaners with hydrochloric acid can dissolve hair, this method is not recommended as it can also destroy your plumbing pipes. A common DIY alternative is using baking soda and vinegar, which can help break down the clog but will not actually dissolve the hair. The best and safest method for clearing a hair clog is to remove it manually. You can use a drain snake, a straightened wire hanger with pliers to fish out the clog, or have a plumber use a professional auger for more severe blockages.