Best drain cleaners near Rutherfordton, NC

Yes, pop-up drains commonly get clogged with hair, soap scum, and toothpaste. It is important to know how to properly clean the drain or get professional help to ensure it remains clear and can drain water effectively.

The P-trap (or S-trap in older homes) under your shower is designed to prevent sewer gas from coming back up, so you shouldn’t normally experience foul odors coming from your shower drain. If you do, the vent stack that introduces air into your plumbing system may be clogged, or you may have a more severe sewer main blockage. In either case, hire a plumber to fix the issue for you.

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.

You should inspect and clean your French drain at least once per year to keep it in good working order. Regular maintenance can help identify clogs, buildup, and damage before they become bigger problems, which increases the lifespan of your drain. The frequency with which a drain clogs can depend on factors like the amount of debris, the quality of the installation, and the type of filter used. If your drain accumulates a lot of sediment, it may require more frequent cleaning. It's also a good practice to check the access and exit points after heavy storms. If you notice reduced drainage or any signs of a clog, clean the drain as soon as possible.