Drain

A drain is any channel or pipe that carries wastewater away from your home, from kitchen sinks to shower floors to outdoor systems. Clogs, slow drainage, and unpleasant odors are common issues that can escalate quickly if ignored. Whether you need routine cleaning or a more involved repair, Angi helps you find the right pro and provides guidance to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.

Related to Drain Service

Drain Service Articles and Advice
Angi  •  May 30, 2026
How Much Does Basement Drain Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
Discover basement drain installation cost, key price factors, and ways to save. Get expert tips to plan your basement drain project with confidence.
Angi  •  May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Drain Pipes in a House? [2026 Data]
Discover the cost to replace drain pipes in a house, including average prices, key factors, and tips to save on your plumbing project.
Rachel Hoffman  •  May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Bathtub or Shower Drain? [2026 Data]
We’ll cover the cost of replacing a shower or bathtub drain, whether you can tackle this repair yourself, and what other projects to consider along the way.
Angi Staff  •  May 22, 2026
5 Ways to Avoid a Sewer or Drain-Cleaning Scam
Don't fall victim to unnecessary plumbing service. Learn five ways to avoid becoming the victim of a fraudulent contractor's sewer or drain-cleaning scam.
Barbara Bellesi Zito  •  May 22, 2026
5 Easy Ways to Keep Bathroom Clogs at Bay
A clogged bathroom drain is a big headache for a homeowner, but preventative measures can help keep the water flowing easily. Here are some tips on how to keep the bathtub drain clear before you need to call in a professional plumber for help.
Stephanie Shaykin  •  May 22, 2026
How to Plunge a Toilet
When it comes to plunging toilets, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Learn how to plunge a toilet, and you may be able to avoid calling the plumber.
Margaret Wack  •  May 22, 2026
How to Retrieve Jewelry After It Falls Down a Drain
Having a piece of jewelry fall down the drain can be a stressful experience. We’ll cover the best tips and tricks to get your jewelry back safe and sound.
Elisa Greenberg  •  May 22, 2026
How to Unclog a Bathtub in 6 Easy Steps
Unclogging your bathtub requires a few tools and a little patience. Our guide will show you how to unclog a bathtub in 6 simple steps.
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Common Drain Service Questions

In most areas, drain cleaning professionals don’t technically need a license, as they aren’t altering your plumbing system in any way. However, we recommend hiring a drain cleaning professional with a plumbing license and certification. Certified plumbers are more likely to provide professional solutions to drain clogs without damaging your system. They’ll also have the diagnostic tools and experience necessary to remove the clog entirely rather than providing a temporary solution, as a handyperson might. Use Angi’s state licensing tool to check your plumber’s professional licenses before hiring.

Plumbers will typically take one to two hours to install a new drain pipe, but that timeline can vary based on the area’s accessibility, the drain length, and the type of drain line. Replacing an easily accessible p-trap under a sink could take as little as a half an hour, while replacing a larger section of drain line behind the wall could take as long as three to four hours. When hiring a plumber for your specific installation, ask them to provide an estimated timeline to get a more accurate assessment.

Applying drain cleaner is a common DIY solution to clogged drains, but it can be extremely harmful to your pipes and lead to corrosion and leaks. It is almost always better to try snaking a clog than using a drain cleaner, but the best solution is to hire a professional plumber. They can locate the clog and gauge the severity using a camera system and then decide if using a plumber’s snake, auger, or drain cleaner is the best option to remove the clog and limit damage to your plumbing system.

Yes, plumber's putty ensures a solid bond between the drain assembly and sink. Silicone is a good alternative if you prefer not to use plumber's putty. However, plumber's putty typically isn't visible from the outside of the drain, as you can wipe away any excess when done.

When you put baking soda and vinegar down the drain, they chemically react and help break down clogs. It’s not going to work for every type of clog, however. For example, it’s not the best way to get rid of grease buildup. For grease, you should try boiling water and white vinegar instead.