Experiencing a slow-moving drain? Dealing with frequent clogs in your shower, toilet, or bathroom sink? It might be a good idea to consider having your drains professionally cleared. Clearing a drain typically comes with an average price tag of $300*. However, the cost can vary significantly in Texas, ranging from as low as $100* to upwards of $1,000* or more.
While the cost range is extensive, several factors can influence the overall cost.
- Clog location
- Access to clog
- The severity of the clog’s cause
- Video camera inspection
- Chosen plumber
To obtain an accurate quote, it is recommended to consult a plumber. However, we at Proficient Plumbing can provide a comprehensive breakdown of the various factors influencing the drain cleaning cost. This will assist you in planning & budgeting effectively.
Need an accurate estimate for your drain cleaning project? Dealing with a clogged drain can disrupt your schedule. That’s why we provide convenient appointment slots, ensuring you won’t have to wait all day for our arrival. Contact us at (512)269-0209 or schedule your estimate online today.
The Location Of The Clog
Primary lines transport the wastewater from your home to the city’s sewer lines or septic tank. In contrast, secondary lines transfer the wastewater to the primary line.
The cost of drain-clearing services is influenced by the location & accessibility of the clog within the pipe. Factors such as the specific area of the clog & the difficulty in accessing it are considered when determining the price.
Texas has two types of drains: a primary main line & a secondary drain line. Clearing clogs in the main line tends to be more costly than in secondary sewer lines.
Main Line:
Your main line, also known as your sewer line, serves as the conduit for wastewater from your home to either the city connection or your septic tank. All the drains in your house empty into this crucial line, typically situated beneath your yard. Accessing it can be challenging due to its location.
One clear indication of a main sewer line clog is the simultaneous clogging of multiple drains within your home. For instance, if you flush your toilet & sewage begins to back up in your bathtub.
When dealing with main line clogs, a skilled plumber often employs a camera to thoroughly inspect & precisely identify the exact location of the obstruction. In cases where the clog is situated farther down the line, specialized machinery becomes necessary to access & resolve the issue. It is important to note that this additional step may increase costs, as additional time & equipment are required.
Secondary drain lines:
Your home features several secondary drain lines, including sink drains, shower drains, & toilet lines. These secondary sewer lines carry wastewater from these sources & channel it into the main sewer line.
Unlike the main plumbing line, secondary lines remain unaffected by clogs in other secondary lines. If a secondary line, such as a shower drain, gets clogged, you should still be able to use the plumbing throughout the rest of your home because these lines are separate & independent.
Access To The Clog
The cost of clearing clog increases directly to the difficulty of accessing it.
To clear a clog in the main sewer line, a plumber must access a crucial point called the “clean out.” Typically, these cleanouts are positioned outside your house, near the street, in basements, or even in one of your bathrooms.
A cleanout can be identified as a 3-4 inch pipe made of either cast iron or plastic, with a cap protruding from the ground or a small manhole cover. It serves as the point of connection between your home’s plumbing system & the main sewer or septic system. When your plumber accesses the cleanout, they can begin clearing the drain, ensuring smooth & efficient plumbing functionality.
If your cleanout is difficult to access, it can increase costs due to the additional time & labor. For instance, if your exterior cleanout is concealed by several feet of landscaping, your plumber may have to spend considerable time excavating to gain access to it.
Note: If the blockage is not in the main sewer or secondary lines, there may be an issue with your sewer vent pipe. This pipe, located on the roof, serves the purpose of ventilating sewage gas & regulating air pressure. If it becomes obstructed by leaves or other debris, it can hinder the proper drainage of your sewer line.
Due to their harder accessibility, sewer vent cleanouts are more costly.
How Severe Clogs Are?
The cost can vary based on the severity & complexity of the clog. More challenging clogs, like those resulting from the accumulation of fats, oils, or grease, necessitate more robust tools & additional labor, thereby increasing the overall cost.
Minor blockages in your drain line can be caused by hair, food, toilet paper, or hygiene products getting stuck. Fortunately, professional plumbers can effortlessly eliminate these types of clogs using plumbing snakes or drain-cleaning cable machines. These simple yet effective handheld tools work wonders in clearing secondary drain line blockages.
Severe clogs are often a result of the accumulation of heavy sludge from fats, oils, grease, or the intrusion of large tree roots. To tackle such stubborn clogs, plumbers typically use hydro jetting devices. Hydro jetters, known for their superior power & complexity compared to simple snakes, effectively clear, tough clogs by harnessing high-pressure streams of water.
The Use Of A Video Camera For Inspection
If the plumber cannot visually detect the clog or is uncertain of its precise location, it may be necessary to employ a camera for inspection, which can result in additional expenses.
Specially-designed waterproof video camera snakes are utilized to conduct visual inspections of sewer lines & other pipes that are challenging to access. Video camera inspections are commonly employed for underground pipes encased in concrete, concealed behind walls, or located beneath your home’s foundation, among other scenarios.
The cost of the service is determined by the length of your pipes & the accessibility of your cleanout. While some may consider it unnecessary, video camera pipe inspections eliminate any uncertainties regarding hidden pipe issues. This allows your plumber to efficiently devise the most cost-effective solution, ultimately saving you money in the long term.
The Plumber You Hire
When in search of a reliable professional, it is crucial to seek out individuals who possess the following qualities:
- Demonstrable proof of valid licensing & insurance coverage.
- Over a decade of professional experience in the industry.
- Outstanding track record of receiving 5-star reviews from satisfied customers in the local area.
- Providing transparent & up-front cost estimates to clients.
- Offering a clear & explicit guarantee of the work to be completed.
Ensuring the safety & comfort of your family & home is of utmost importance. Protect your drains from potential long-term damage by entrusting the task to a reputable & experienced company like Proficient Plumbing. With our guarantee of 100% satisfaction, you can rest assured that your needs will be met.
Need An Estimate For Your Drain Clearing? Call Proficient Plumbing Solutions
For reliable drain cleaning services, look no further than Proficient Plumbing Solutions. Our team of experienced & licensed plumbers is committed to providing 5-star service. We stand by our work with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, ensuring your peace of mind.
Contact us at (512)269-0209 or visit us to experience our exceptional service firsthand.
*Please note that the provided prices are approximations and may fluctuate based on various factors. For the most current and accurate pricing inquiries, we encourage you to reach out to us directly at your convenience.