Absolutely no one wants to deal with plumbing issues, especially blocked-up drains. In addition to the hassle, many worry about the costs of professional repair when it seems the non-toxic drain cleaners and homeowner’s plumbing snake just won’t cut it. If you’re experiencing issues with your drains and clogs, don’t let it get serious! Call a plumber. Here’s an overview of what drain-cleaning solutions are available to you and how much the options cost.
Sewer Snake
A sewer snake is the go-to solution for most clogged pipes. A bit more powerful than a regular homeowner’s plumbing snake, it can get rid of all the hair and other items stuck in your drain. If a rooter machine is used in conjunction, the combo is perfect for removing any tree roots that may have grown into your pipes over the years.
The cost to hire a professional to snake your clogged pipes depends on the location of the problem but also the severity of the backup itself. An estimate for smaller, household clogs tends to be between $100 to $275. This includes work in:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry rooms
- On toilets
Prices can be location-dependent, but these will give you an idea:
- Kitchens and bathrooms – Homeowners can expect drain cleaning to cost around $109 to $214.
- Laundry drains – These can cost between $151 and $214.
- Toilet clogs – They tend to range from $109 to $273.
It’s important to remember that a clog’s location within the pipe as well as its severity have an impact on the final drain cleaning cost. Plumbers may also charge a service fee. Before making a decision based on price, ask the technician whether the fee is included in the quote or added afterwards.
Snakes can also be used to clear main plumbing lines. If this is the case, the price you pay will increase and ranges from about $180 to more than $400, depending on the work involved. You may get a higher estimate on work that requires your toilet to be removed and more powerful cleaning equipment to be used, for instance.
Camera Inspection
If drain cleaners and a sewer snake don’t work, a technician will turn to a camera inspection. A camera provides an accurate picture of what is going on in your pipes and helps the technician develop a solution. Cameras can also help find lost objects—like wedding rings—that may have been dropped down drains.
The cost of a camera inspection varies widely but is often between $100 and $800, which could make up a large amount of the final drain cleaning cost. The average tends to be $250 to $500, but the final price depends on the length of the pipe and the recording process used (video or still images). It’s also important to remember that these are the prices simply for the camera inspection, not for any prior work or solutions that are required after the images bring back a result.
Some plumbers offer discounts if jobs are combined (for example, snaking and camera inspection), but it’s important to ask during your initial conversation for a quote. Other plumbers may charge by the hour, and this could include watching the video off-site.
Camera inspections aren’t only used when problems arise. They are also important—though not standard—tools during a house inspection. Ask your realtor or a local plumber for advice before purchasing a home. If the house was built over 25 years ago, it is highly recommended that you do a camera inspection.
Hydrojetting
Sometimes clogs develop that are extremely tough, usually made of grime and grease, along with other materials, like tree roots or larger items, lost down the drain. These call for a process known as hydrojetting, which is when a high-pressure jet of water is sent through your clogged pipes—very similar to power washing. It destroys and breaks apart anything in its path, including grime and tree roots.
Prices for hydrojetting tend to start around $350 and go up to approximately $600. It can take upwards of two hours to complete a hydrojetting job, so it’s important to keep that in mind if your plumber charges by the hour. Your drain cleaning cost could also be affected by the length of the pipe line that is cleaned.
While you may be tempted to save money by hydrojetting on your own, it is not recommended. If done incorrectly, it can lead to more damage to your pipes and your home, so always call a professional.
Sewer Line Replacement
If none of the previous options have worked, the remaining option is sewer line replacement. This is often required if the soil has shifted or is settling or if the ground has frozen in cold weather, but other causes include:
- A severely clogged drain due to grease or a large object
- Corrosion
- A large amount of tree roots
- Leaks
Repairs can take several days, as the pipe needs to be dug up and exposed.
Sewer line replacement is the most expensive of the examples listed due to the extensive nature of the work. Prices begin around $1,000 but can reach up to $25,000. More complex jobs start at $7,000. The cost is determined by:
- How deep the lines are
- The length of pipe that needs to be replaced
- The type of pipe that is used
- The location of the piping – If it’s under a building, such as a shed or garage, it may require more work and therefore cost more.
If your issue calls for sewer line replacement, note that digging will only occur near the affected pipe but that it could cause minor damage to your yard. Some homeowners decide to hire a landscaping company afterward, which would need to be factored into the budget.
While no one plans for clogged drains, they do happen from time to time if you own a home. It’s important to set aside an emergency fund in case you are ever in need of repairs, an inspection, or sewer line replacement. And remember that pricing can be affected by whether the issue is an emergency or after-hours.
If you’re having a blocked-drain problem in the Lewisville, Texas area, call CW Service Pros at 972-395-2597. We’ll give you a clear estimate of the cost and ensure the issue is taken care of quickly.