How much does it cost for a plumber to snake drain?

Author: Dr. Clovis Konopelski  |  Last update: Friday, September 26, 2025

On average, the cost to snake a drain can range from $100 to $300. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and prices may vary depending on the factors.

How much does a plumber charge to snake a drain?

Across the nation, if you were going to hire a professional plumber, the average amount you can expect to spend is approximately $250. However, if your clog is minor, plumbers may charge as little as $100. Of course, if your clog is substantially more complex, this could increase your costs to upwards of $400.

How much should it cost to clear a clogged 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.

How long does it take a plumber to snake a drain?

A drain snake is used to physically remove blockages. This method can take anywhere from fifteen minutes to almost an hour, depending on how complex your clog is. For more severe or deeper blockages, your plumber might use hydro-jetting.

How much does it cost to snake and camera a drain?

According to Forbes, the average cost of a sewer camera inspection in 2022 was $280. On the low end, it could cost as little as $70. While the average price range was between $125 and $500, some inspections cost up to $900 depending on rates, the scope of services provided, and the state or city.

How Much Does It Cost For A Plumber To Snake A Drain?

How much does it cost to have a camera ran down your drain?

An average sewer camera inspection costs around $280, is used to find the cause of a blockage or leak and is often built into the plumbing invoice for call-put and repair work. For a full-blown pipe inspection, condition report and recommendations, you may be looking at a higher cost.

Is a clog worse after snaking the drain?

You Could Make the Clog Worse

For example, if the clog is caused by mineral buildup from hard water, the snake may scrape off pieces of the buildup, only to push them deeper into the pipe. This could result in a larger blockage that's even harder to remove.

Is it better to use a snake or drain cleaner?

Drain snakes are more effective

Simply put, drain snakes are more effective at busting clogs than chemical drain cleaners. Chemical cleaners often struggle to pierce tough blockages. Instead of dissolving the clog, the chemicals sit on top and slowly eat away at your pipes.

Why is my sink still clogged after snaking?

Home / Plumbing / Clogged Drain and Snake Not Working? A plumber snake is a great tool for clearing drain clogs… if it's working properly and you know how to use it. If your snake isn't unclogging your drains, it could be because the thumbscrew is loose, the clog is too severe, or the auger is dirty.

Why is drain cleaning so expensive?

Factors Influencing Drain Cleaning Costs

A simple clog caused by hair or soap buildup can be resolved quickly, resulting in a lower cost. However, severe blockages caused by tree roots, grease buildup, or foreign objects may require more intensive work and specialized equipment, leading to higher charges.

What is the cheapest way to unclog a drain?

Salt and Baking Soda

Salt is a cost-effective alternative that works well for minor clogs. Mixing half a cup of table salt with baking soda and pouring it down the drain before adding boiling water can help break down grease and debris.

Is drano bad for pipes?

The Short Answer Is: Drano and similar chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to home drain pipes as they contain corrosive chemicals that may deteriorate pipes over time, especially if used frequently.

What do most plumbers charge per hour?

The average plumbing contractor hourly rate will greatly depend on the level of expertise you're hiring.
  • Master plumber: $90 to $200 per hour.
  • Journeyman plumber: $70 to $120 per hour.
  • Apprentice plumber: $45 to $90 per hour.

How to tell if a sewer line is clogged?

10 Signs Your Sewer Line Is Clogged
  1. Multiple Fixtures Are Clogged. ...
  2. Flushing the Toilet Causes Water to Come Up Elsewhere. ...
  3. Water Draining From Your Washing Machine Causes an Overflow in Other Locations. ...
  4. Drainage at the Cleanout. ...
  5. Slow-Draining Sinks or Toilets. ...
  6. Frequent Plunging. ...
  7. Bubbles in Your Toilet Water. ...
  8. Dark Water.

How much does it cost to clean out a main sewer line?

Clearing a clogged sewer line costs $250 to $800, depending on where the clog is located, what causes it, and the necessary cleaning. A clogged sewer line is typically an indication of a much larger problem. The main sewer line is much larger and can typically handle more volume than the average drain in your home.

Is snaking a drain expensive?

On average, the cost to snake a drain can range from $100 to $300. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and prices may vary depending on the factors.

Can you rent a drain snake?

Whether you're struggling with plumbing blockages or trying to prevent them, United Rentals has a variety of plumbing snake rentals to help. Our electric plumbing snakes for rent are compact yet powerful enough to tackle tough clogs. Clear drainage and pipes with ease to ensure the proper flow of fluids or sewage.

Can a drain snake break a pipe?

The rigidity of a drain snake, combined with aggressive handling, can cause cracks or even break pipes entirely.

Can plunging toilet make a clog worse?

One common question people ask is, “Can plunging make a clog worse?” The short answer is yes, but only if you're not using toilet plungers correctly. Using too much force or plunging too vigorously can push the clog further down the drain, making it harder to remove.

What happens if you leave a drain clogged too long?

When a drain clog is ignored, the consequences can be serious. Left unchecked, a clogged drain can lead to a variety of plumbing problems, from reduced water pressure to flooding and sewage backups.

How to clear a clog past the P-trap?

Pour one cup of fresh baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Place a rubber stopper or other sink hole cover over the drain opening. Wait 15 minutes to allow the vinegar and baking soda to unclog your drain, Then take out the drain cover and run hot tap water down the drain to clear the clog.

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 much does it cost to have drains cleared?

Drain Jetting Costs

The average cost of drain jetting is around £70 to £175. Drain jetting is the preferred method for professional as it enables them to conduct a thorough clean to get rid of any problematic blockages. It will also clear out any other debris which will prevent any future drain issues.

Is a sewer camera inspection worth it?

For many homeowners, a sewer camera inspection is worth it when used as a preventative measure. Even if you don't think anything is wrong with your sewer lines, having a professional technician perform a thorough inspection can help you understand the state of your sewer lines.

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