How do I empty a washing machine drain?

• <div><p>If your washing machine drain is clogged, that isn’t a good sign. Unlike toilet drains or kitchen sink drains, there isn’t matter that is easily broken up with a plumbing snake, and more care is required. If you’re in an old house or have mineral-rich water, there could be a buildup inside the pipe. Either way, if the blockage isn’t obvious and doesn’t dislodge with a snake, you need to call a pro—otherwise, you risk damaging integral plumbing. </p></div>

Get matched with top drain cleaners in Alma, NE

Q: Can I clear a drain clog myself?

• <div><p>DIY plunging or drain cleaning chemicals may help minor clogs, but professional hydro jetting ensures long-term solutions.</p></div>

Q: Is it OK to use a drain auger on a toilet?

• <div><p>It is okay to use a drain auger on a toilet, just make sure you are using the correct tip size. The auger is a plumbing snake with a protective sleeve to protect the porcelain toilet bowl from getting scratched. Using too large of an auger can cause the snake to loop back and damage the inside of the drain and plumbing.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to snake a drain?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-snake-a-drain.htm">Snaking a drain</a> can take as little as a <b>few minutes</b> for small, simple clogs, <b>up to two hours</b> or more for tough clogs located further down the drain line. For tougher clogs, a professional drain cleaner can likely get the job done much more quickly because they have the necessary tools and expertise. However, your drain cleaning pro might not be able to give you a firm time estimate until inspecting the clog and its surrounding plumbing.</p></div>

Q: What is the difference between a one-way cleanout and a two-way cleanout?

• <div><p>With a one-way cleanout, you can access your sewer line from one direction. Depending on the way it curves, a plumber can either access the side of the pipe that goes into your home or the side that goes to your yard. On the other hand, two-way cleanouts allow pros to access both sides of the sewer line, thanks to their dual-pipe design (they&rsquo;re usually U-shaped).</p></div>

Q: How do I empty a washing machine drain?

• <div><p>If your washing machine drain is clogged, that isn&rsquo;t a good sign. Unlike toilet drains or kitchen sink drains, there isn&rsquo;t matter that is easily broken up with a plumbing snake, and more care is required. If you&rsquo;re in an old house or have mineral-rich water, there could be a buildup inside the pipe. Either way, if the blockage isn&rsquo;t obvious and doesn&rsquo;t dislodge with a snake, you need to call a pro&mdash;otherwise, you risk damaging integral plumbing. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Drain Cleaning pros in Alma, NE

*The Angi rating for Drain Cleaning companies in Alma, NE is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Drain Cleaning needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Drain Cleaning companies in Alma, NE is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Drain Cleaning needs.

Last update on November 22, 2025

Reviewed in April 2012
This is my sixth great experience with this company, I am consistently impressed by the owner and the employees I've dealt with (including the receptionist when I call). The mechanism in one of the toilet tanks at our shop failed and water ran and ran and ran. When I noticed it, I called Don...
Don Rutt Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in June 2020
Very professional! They have done two different jobs. The first was a problem with my sewer line backing up. They found that it was full of tree roots. The plumber worked for hours cutting through the roots. It was a long, hard job and he was determined to get it cleaned out. The second job was...
Herman Plumbing Co Inc
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Reviewed in September 2013
I was very happy with the gentleman who came out to do the original work. Unfortunately, a week later, the drain backed up again. I called them, and they sent men out They came out and checked inside the manhole, out in the street. They said there were a lot of "wipes" there, and...
A-1 Drain & Sewer Cleaning
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Reviewed in July 2012
S and S did a great job! They were punctual, professional, and honest. They were very careful to clean up after themselves. Fixed my air conditioner for less than $150 which a different company had said would need replaced for more than $2000. Cleaned out drain lines and vented washing...
S & S Plumbing & Well Service LLC
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Reviewed in June 2013
The work was all excellent. Each time the work was performed, all of the workers were very friendly and professional. The work was done quickly and everything was thoroughly tested before they left. All debris was cleaned up completely before they left. I like they have a 24 hour emergency...
Independent Plumbing & Heating Inc
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Reviewed in March 2022
My basement laundry room drain had overflowing issues when the pipe running out of my house to the back alley became too plugged. Afford O Rooter ordered a longer piece of equipment to handle my long backyard pipe!
Afford-O-Rooter
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Find Drain cleaners in Alma

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 94% of Angi customers

29496 local quotes requested

NEW! Appliance Consultation – Just $35 Get expert advice before you spend on repairs or replacements. A Neli technician will evaluate your issue and help you decide if your appliance can be fixed—or if it’s time for a new one. Virtual Appliance Diagnosis and Repair - Just $45 Service Description: Diagnose or repair your appliance virtually—no need for anyone to enter your home. Neli’s certified technicians guide you step-by-step via secure video chat. How It Works: Book online at nelihome.com or call 833-876-0900 Connect with a tech through our video platform Diagnose or fix the issue in real time Get expert advice and confidence in your next steps What’s Included: Real-time video guidance from a certified technician Diagnosis of the issue OR full repair (when possible) Step-by-step guidance using your smartphone or tablet Safe, contact-free service - no one in your home Flexible scheduling—appointments available daily Perfect For: Appliance fixes HVAC troubleshooting DIY-savvy homeowners Saving time and money on service calls

"Did a great job "

Don F on November 2025

"Did a great job "

Don F on November 2025

DT Homes

No reviews yet

DT Homes

No reviews yet

15 years of experience

we have 4 employees and can handle anything from your honey-do to a new construction . The forms of payment we accept are cash and local checks .

Delta Van Lines Inc

4.33(

)

Delta Van Lines Inc

4.33(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

26 years of experience

Delta Van Lines one of the most trusted Nationwide movers provides the first-class treatment that your belongings deserve. Our moving company offers a variety of moving services that can be customized based on your specific requirements. Are you looking for a local or state-to-state moving solution? Choose Delta Van Lines to ensure your moving experience is absolutely smooth and free from any kind of stress or confusion. If you are looking for someone to facilitate a residential or corporate relocation or a local or long distance move, Delta Van Lines is the name you can count on for impeccable quality of moving services Here at Delta Van Lines, customer satisfaction is our number one priority. We look forward to assisting you with all your moving needs! Call us today for a free quote at 800-544-1380

"very smoothly"

Sukran A on August 2018

"very smoothly"

Sukran A on August 2018

Tucker Services

No reviews yet

Tucker Services

No reviews yet

11 years of experience

When you incur a plumbing problem, it can be extremely time-consuming and expense We do not charge overtime charges for after hours or Saturday work. Payments Accepted Checks, Credit Cards Or Cash Licensed & Insured. As a locally owned plumbing company, I have more than 21 years of experience.

AAA Action Drain Service

No reviews yet

AAA Action Drain Service

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

AAA Action Drain Service serves the Tri-City area which includes Grand Island, Hastings and Kearney. With over 25 years of experience, AAA Action Drain Service specializes in Plumbing Repairs and Sewer & Drain Cleaning with the use of a Sewer Inspection Camera and a Hydro Water Jetter. If you are experiencing Groundwater Problems, AAA Action Drain Service offers you the solution. AAA Action Drain Service is Bonded and Insured and offers Professional Drain Cleaning at a Reasonable Price. Please call Dave or Scott

Anderson Bros Electric Plumbing & Heating Inc

3.00(

)

Anderson Bros Electric Plumbing & Heating Inc

3.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

78 years of experience

Anderson Bros. is a full service electrical, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning contractor serving the central Nebraska area since 1947. We provide our customers with customized indoor home comfort solutions that fit their home and their family's needs.

Independent Plumbing & Heating Inc

4.20(

)

Independent Plumbing & Heating Inc

4.20(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

Emergency services offered

Independent Plumbing & Heating Inc has been serving the Western Nebraska Panhandle including Scottsbluff, Gering, Bridgeport, Mitchell, Sidney, Kimball, and the surrounding communities since 1933. We are locally owned and operated. We offer both Residential and Commercial Sales, Installation, Repair and Service for: *High Efficiency Air Conditioning *High Efficiency Heating *Heat Pumps *Geo Thermal *Plumbing *Septic Service & Repair *Hot water heaters *Appliances Come visit our showroom for all your new appliance and Plumbing Fixture needs. Our Brand Names Include *Lennox *Kohler *Delta *Bosch Call us for Your Air Conditioning, Heating, and Plumbing Needs

King's Plumbing

4.80(

)

King's Plumbing

4.80(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Small family owened shop that provides all the services of a large plumbing shop and more.

Herman Plumbing Co Inc

4.92(

)

Herman Plumbing Co Inc

4.92(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Herman Plumbing Co., Inc. has been providing continous service to the Grand Island area for 76 years. We have a dedicated staff of 16 employees to assist in resolving your plumbing issues.

"Very professional! They have done two different jobs. The first was a problem with my sewer line backing up. They found that it was full of tree roots. The plumber worked for hours cutting through the roots. It was a long, hard job and he was determined to get it cleaned out. The second job was to clean the kitchen drain. Obviously, the previous owner dumped lots of grease down the drain. It was a lot to clean out. The cost wasn't bad considering that the tree roots ended up being a day and a half project."

Candi S on June 2020

Herman Plumbing Co., Inc. has been providing continous service to the Grand Island area for 76 years. We have a dedicated staff of 16 employees to assist in resolving your plumbing issues.

"Very professional! They have done two different jobs. The first was a problem with my sewer line backing up. They found that it was full of tree roots. The plumber worked for hours cutting through the roots. It was a long, hard job and he was determined to get it cleaned out. The second job was to clean the kitchen drain. Obviously, the previous owner dumped lots of grease down the drain. It was a lot to clean out. The cost wasn't bad considering that the tree roots ended up being a day and a half project."

Candi S on June 2020

Drain Cleaning questions, answered by experts

DIY plunging or drain cleaning chemicals may help minor clogs, but professional hydro jetting ensures long-term solutions.

It is okay to use a drain auger on a toilet, just make sure you are using the correct tip size. The auger is a plumbing snake with a protective sleeve to protect the porcelain toilet bowl from getting scratched. Using too large of an auger can cause the snake to loop back and damage the inside of the drain and plumbing.

Snaking a drain can take as little as a few minutes for small, simple clogs, up to two hours or more for tough clogs located further down the drain line. For tougher clogs, a professional drain cleaner can likely get the job done much more quickly because they have the necessary tools and expertise. However, your drain cleaning pro might not be able to give you a firm time estimate until inspecting the clog and its surrounding plumbing.

With a one-way cleanout, you can access your sewer line from one direction. Depending on the way it curves, a plumber can either access the side of the pipe that goes into your home or the side that goes to your yard. On the other hand, two-way cleanouts allow pros to access both sides of the sewer line, thanks to their dual-pipe design (they’re usually U-shaped).

If your washing machine drain is clogged, that isn’t a good sign. Unlike toilet drains or kitchen sink drains, there isn’t matter that is easily broken up with a plumbing snake, and more care is required. If you’re in an old house or have mineral-rich water, there could be a buildup inside the pipe. Either way, if the blockage isn’t obvious and doesn’t dislodge with a snake, you need to call a pro—otherwise, you risk damaging integral plumbing.

The Alma, NE homeowners’ guide to drain cleaning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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Jul 21, 2025Jul 21, 2025
How Much Does Roots in Pipes Removal Cost? [2025 Data]
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What Is Hydro Jetting and When Do You Need It?
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5 Easy Ways to Remove Hair From Your Drain
If you’ve got a slow-draining bathtub, it could be due to hair buildup. This complete guide will show you how to remove hair from the drain.