Does Roto-Rooter unclog drains?

Author: Dr. Tyreek Mann DVM  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Roto-Rooter's plumbing professionals are available 24/7 to provide all types of drainage service. At Roto-Rooter we unclog and clean drains, perform routine drain maintenance, provide emergency drain cleaning services, and unclog and clean main sewers.

How does Roto-Rooter clear drains?

When the machine turns on, the blades spin and shave the pipe walls of all debris and roots that have penetrated the sewer pipe at the pipe joints or through cracks.

What is the average cost to unclog a drain?

According to data collected by homewyse.com, the average drain cleaning job—including the cost of any supplies and labor—will run a homeowner between $100-$300. The reason for the variability in price comes down to the type of clog and how much time is required to fully clear it.

What does Roto-Rooter actually do?

The famous Roto-Rooter machine was invented to cut through sewer clogs caused by tree roots and other debris then clean the entire length of an underground sewer pipe to get it flowing like new again.

Should I call a Roto-Rooter or a plumber?

If you're dealing with a stubborn clog or blockage, a rooter service may be the quickest solution. However, if you require comprehensive plumbing work, such as installing new pipes, repairing a leaking faucet, or addressing a more complex plumbing issue, a certified plumber is the right professional for the job.

Roto-Rooter Unclogs any Drain or Sewer - Fast!

What is the lawsuit against Roto-Rooter?

A class action lawsuit filed in Minnesota claims Roto-Rooter is running a sewer line repair scam in which it lies to homeowners about the severity of their plumbing problem in order to charge them unnecessary repairs or replacements costing thousands of dollars.

Does insurance cover Roto-Rooter?

Most insurance companies will cover unexpected water damage. However, damage caused by an ongoing issue or structural problem may not be covered. Roto-Rooter makes the water damage insurance process as easy as possible by working directly with your insurance company.

Which is better Mr Rooter or Roto-Rooter?

Verdict: Both Mr. Rooter and Roto-Rooter offer a standard lineup of plumbing services, including emergency response. However, Mr. Rooter has an edge with more comprehensive water line, well pump, and sewer repair and replacement services.

What happens if Roto-Rooter doesn't work?

If the Roto-Rooter machine can't get through the pipe, your service technician can request a video camera inspection of the sewer pipeline to ascertain where the blockage is and its cause. A trained eye will then be able to recommend repair options to the homeowner.

What is Roto-Rooter hourly rate?

Average Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup hourly pay ranges from approximately $14.54 per hour for Maintenance Technician to $28.39 per hour for Manager.

Is Roto-Rooter more expensive than other plumbers?

Roto-Rooter is a national service available in every U.S. state, including Alaska and Hawaii. Flat-rate pricing might be slightly higher in states with a higher cost of living, such as California or New York, but most plumbers charge between $45 and $200 per hour.

How long should it take a plumber to unclog drain?

If you're dealing with a more stubborn or complicated blockage, you'll likely need a professional plumber. Their solutions can take a couple of hours or even a whole day to complete.

How much does it cost to get your drains unblocked?

Prices start from approximately £90 for straightforward manual unblocking to £275 for a complete CCTV drain assessment including a detailed report. Additional services such as high-pressure water jetting and drain relining are charged per service or per linear metre. Drain relining averages at £100 per linear metre.

How do you permanently unclog a drain?

All you have to do is pour 1 cup or baking soda down your drain and then follow it with 1 cup of vinegar. After your mixture is in the drain, seal the top of the drain and wait for about an hour so your concoction can start breaking down any clogs. After about an hour, rinse your drain a few times with boiling water.

How much does a Roto-Rooter charge to unclog a drain?

Roto-Rooter's most popular service is clearing sewer lines using an auger strong enough to cut through tree roots. This service typically costs $400 to $600. Unclogging a branch line, or plumbing within the home, costs $350 to $500 on average. The technician uses a smaller auger to snake a drain in your home.

What is the difference between Roto-Rooter and hydro jet?

While rooters scrape the sides of a pipe, the hydro jetter will blast off all debris in the pipe and wash it out. In addition to being 30-50% more efficient, the hydro nozzles spraying pressurized water can be as aggressive or gentle as they need to be – which makes a huge difference in the quality of the work.

How can I tell if my main sewer line is clogged?

Watch Out for These Four Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line?
  1. All Your Drains Reek. It's not uncommon to have a single drain that emits a foul odor. ...
  2. Your Drains Are Blocked or Slow-Moving. ...
  3. You Hear Loud Gurgling Sounds Coming From Your Pipes Throughout Your Home. ...
  4. You Have an Unnaturally Lush Landscape or a Smelly, Sunken Lawn.

How much does hydro jetting cost?

Hydro jetting costs $475 on average but range from $350 to $600. A plumber can give you a quote and get rid of your sewer clog. Having to keep your plumber on speed dial is no fun for any homeowner. If chronic sewer clogs are giving you issues, it might be time to call in the big guns.

How do you unclog a pipe when nothing works?

One option is to use a drain snake or auger to physically remove the clog. Another effective technique is to create a chemical reaction using baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, then flush with hot water.

Does Roto-Rooter guarantee their work?

Our No-Hassle Guarantees* mean we'll return to fix anything that doesn't stay fixed. And because Roto-Rooter has been trusted and recommended since 1935, you can feel confident knowing that Roto-Rooter will be around to make good on its guarantee.

Is Roto-Rooter real plumbers?

The company, founded in 1935, originally specialized in clearing tree roots and other obstructions from sewer lines. As of 2020, it employs thousands of plumbers, and service technicians throughout the US and Canada who provide plumbing and sewer and water damage cleanup services.

How does Roto-Rooter clean pipes?

WATCH A ROTO-ROOTER MACHINE CLEAR A CLOGGED PIPE

The electric motor spins the cable and blade like a drill bit. The blade is sharp and sometimes serrated. Being spring-loaded, the blade is designed to rest against the pipe walls so that as it spins, it cuts away roots right down to the pipe walls.

What type of plumbing is not covered by insurance?

However, a homeowners policy won't cover slow, constant leaks or other plumbing problems resulting from neglect or improper maintenance. This also applies to backed-up sump pumps or sewage systems that have not been routinely inspected and maintained.

Does Roto-Rooter do payment plans?

With more time to pay, you don't have to wait to change what's possible — for your home, your family, or your passions. With Roto-Rooter financing, enjoy the convenience of monthly payments.

Does Roto-Rooter have good benefits?

Combined with an excellent benefit package that includes medical, dental and disability insurance, profit sharing, retirement plans and paid vacation, a career with Roto-Rooter can be highly financially rewarding.

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