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.
Regardless of the drain cleaner type you choose to use, they all work through chemical reactions that create heat. Thanks to the heat, the clogged hair begins to dissolve until it is able to be flushed away. To avoid clogs in your drain due to hair, use hair catchers and empty them out after every shower.
Using less toilet paper is the easiest way to prevent future clogs. Also, avoid flushing sanitary products, thick paper towels, or hair down the toilet. If you’ve been using a brick in the tank to reduce the water used to flush the toilet, take it out immediately. Bricks will eventually fall apart and clog your toilet drain. Keeping your toilet lid closed also helps avoid future clogs.
If you want to avoid using a snake to unclog a drain, or if you don’t have one, try vinegar and baking soda. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. Wait for 15 minutes, and then run hot water (but not boiling water) down the drain to see if the clog is clear. Repeat multiple times as needed.
Outdoor plumbing issues are no less serious or urgent to fix than interior plumbing problems. These problems may require excavation and lawn repair due to the plumbing often being buried underground.
The most common outside plumbing problems include:
A clogged main sewer line can lead to gas or wastewater leaks. Find out what main sewer line clog repair costs by type of service, clog severity, and more.
The best way to keep your sewer line running smoothly is with some regular maintenance. But don’t worry—it doesn’t take much effort. Read on to learn how.
