Blockage in a
Single drain
Based on your symptoms, the clog is likely due to a blockage within your house and not the main line that connects to the city sewer. This is commonly caused by accumulating food, hair, grease, or foreign objects such as children’s toys. Avoid putting noodles, eggshells, rice, coffee grinds, oils, and food scraps that contain heavy amounts of grease down the sink. All of these items can cause clogs or cause build-up inside your pipes over time.
We recommend unclogging the drain using our cable machine. This process begins with our technician examining the drain to confirm the location of the clog.
They will then determine the most efficient access point, which often involves removing a p-trap or other plumbing fixture. The technician will then wheel or carry their electric-powered cable device to the area of the clog and run the auger until they clear the clog – going as far as the sewer main if necessary.
This service will cost a flat rate of $110, with no hidden fees or taxes1.
Blockage in
Main Line
Although unlikely, it is possible that the blockage is actually in the main line. Sewer lines typically become blocked due to build-up in the line from greases, fats, wipes, and hygiene products that build up on the walls of the sewer line and narrow its capacity. Another way that a sewer line’s capacity can be compromised is when roots enter the line as they seek water and nutrients or when scale builds up due to aging pipes. When that capacity is restricted, drains will not drain and toilets will not flush.
Clear Main Line
Using Cable
Depending on the severity of the blockage, we recommend starting by unclogging the main line using a heavy-duty cable machine (also called an auger). The end of the cable machine has a rotating cutting head that will shred soft obstructions and roots, sending them down the sewer line to the city main line.
Cabling the mainline will cost $180 and we can reach up to 150′ using two cables. There will be an additional $50 charge if our technician has to clear the drain from a roof vent (about 25% of the time). If the blockage is farther than 150’ out, we will need to use the hydrojetter to clear the line (more details on that below). Unlike many competitors, we do not charge additional fees for pulling or resetting a toilet with a new wax ring.
Clear Main Line
Using Hydrojetter
If the blockage is due to roots, grease, sludge, or other hard obstructions in the line, we recommend using a trailer-mounted high-pressure hydrojetter instead of a cable machine. The jetter nozzle will blast the pipe with upwards of 20 gallons of water per minute at 4000 psi in a full 360 degrees to thoroughly clean and restore the full capacity of the line. Stubborn clogs and recurring blockages are no match for a hydrojetter. Unlike the cable machine that may just punch a hole in the blockage, a hydrojetter will provide a longer-lasting solution. Jetting the main line will cost $425, with no hidden fees or taxes1.
Camera Inspection
Depending on the cause of the original blockage, our technician may advise a camera inspection once the line is open and flowing to assess the condition of your pipes. A camera inspection also provides peace of mind that the blockage has been cleared. If the camera inspection reveals any issues with your lines, our technician will then mark the exact location for repair (including depth!).
Knowing the exact condition of your pipes will save you money in the long term by avoiding costly replacements until absolutely necessary. A camera inspection will cost $250, which includes high-resolution digital footage with detailed analysis from our technician and pipe locating and/or marking1.
Maintenance
Keeping your main line flowing smoothly after using a cable machine or hydrojetter requires proper care and maintenance. Depending on the cause of the clog, our technician will recommend treating your lines with enzymes or RootX (a tree root inhibitor).
Enzymes are living organisms that break down fats and other organic materials before they accumulate into a blockage. We have had great results using enzymes with restaurants and other commercial customers. Each bottle of enzymes costs $55 and includes enough for 32 individual 2 oz treatments.
We highly recommend applying RootX immediately after the line is clear of roots for maximum effectiveness. This formula not only kills the roots, but it also prevents future growth for up to a year. RootX is easy to use and is the top environmentally safe root killer on the market. A single application will cost $75 and will treat up to 50’ of line.
Other Considerations
While rare, it is possible that your drain is not clogged; you may have a faulty garbage disposal, toilet, or washing machine. Our technician will be able to determine the underlying issue and help you find the best solution.
Notes
1. Please call our office to confirm pricing over the phone. We charge a reasonable fee to cover gas for jobs outside of Davis, Weber, and Morgan Counties. We also charge a $100 after-hours fee for emergency service on nights, weekends, and holidays.
Trust the Specialized Drain Experts
Whether you're experiencing a slow drain or a major backup, Drain Tech is here to help. Our team of specialized drain technicians can tackle any drain issue with ease, from the smallest clogs to major apartment sewer line clogs. Partner with Drain Tech today to experience top-notch service and results.
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