How Much Does It Cost to Unclog a Drain in 2025?
The average drain cleaning service costs $241
The average cost to unclog a drain falls between $147 and $345, with an average expense of $241.
The type of drain and nature of the blockage significantly influence the final price.
Different fixtures like toilets, kitchen sinks, and main sewer lines have varying cleaning costs.
Preventative maintenance can help homeowners avoid costly emergency service calls.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average cost to unclog a drain is $241, though prices can average from $147 to $345 depending on various factors. When water refuses to flow properly down your drains, it can quickly disrupt your daily routine. Fortunately, whether you're dealing with a clogged toilet, kitchen sink, or main sewer line, solutions are available to restore proper function to your plumbing system.
Cost Factors for Unclogging a Drain
Several key elements determine what you'll ultimately pay for drain cleaning services. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate costs and make informed decisions when hiring professionals.
Type of Drain
Different drains throughout your home require specific approaches and come with their own price points.
| Drain Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Toilet | $110–$275 |
| Kitchen sink | $110–$215 |
| Bathtub/shower | $225 |
| Main sewer line | $100–$800 |
Toilets frequently become clogged with non-flushable items or excessive toilet paper.
Kitchen sinks commonly suffer from food waste and grease accumulation.
Bathtubs and showers primarily collect hair and soap scum over time.
Main sewer line clogs can be challenging to access and may require more extensive equipment to clear blockages.
Severity of the Clog
How badly your drain is blocked plays a significant role in determining the service cost.
Minor blockages consisting of small amounts of debris require less time and effort to clear.
Moderate obstructions might need more powerful equipment or additional time to resolve completely.
Severe blockages, especially in main lines, often push costs toward the upper end of the price range.
Cleaning Method Required
Plumbers select from various techniques based on the specific nature of your clog.
Standard snaking/augering uses a flexible cable to break up or remove blockages.
For tougher clogs, especially in main sewer lines, costs can approach the upper range of $800.
Additional services beyond basic drain cleaning may incur extra charges not included in standard pricing.
Location Factors
While the national average range for drain cleaning is $147 to $345, your specific location may affect pricing. Urban areas might have more competition but higher labor rates, while rural locations could include additional travel charges.
Emergency Services
After-hours service, weekend calls, or holiday appointments often come with premium pricing. True plumbing emergencies, like overflowing toilets or backed-up sewer lines that threaten property damage, may justify these additional costs. Whenever possible, scheduling routine service during regular business hours can help you avoid these extra charges.
Types of Drain Cleaning Methods
Professional plumbers employ several techniques to address different types of clogs.
Mechanical Drain Cleaning
This approach involves using physical tools like augers or snakes to clear blockages. The plumber inserts a flexible cable into the drain and either pushes through the clog or catches and removes it. This method is often the first choice for many standard clogs due to its effectiveness and relatively straightforward application.
Hydro Jetting
For stubborn blockages, especially in larger pipes or main lines, hydro jetting may be necessary. This technique uses high-pressure water to scour pipe walls and flush away debris. While potentially more thorough than mechanical methods, it costs more and may be recommended for severe or recurring clogs.
Chemical Treatments
Professional plumbers sometimes use specialized solutions to dissolve certain types of blockages. These professional-grade treatments differ from over-the-counter products, which can potentially damage pipes if used improperly. Chemical approaches are often used as complementary methods rather than standalone solutions for significant clogs.
Additional Diagnostic Services
For complex or recurring drain issues, plumbers may recommend additional diagnostic services beyond standard cleaning. These supplementary services help identify the root cause of persistent problems, but aren't included in basic drain cleaning costs.
DIY vs. Professional Drain Clog Repair
Many homeowners wonder whether to tackle drain clogs themselves or call in the experts.
DIY Drain Cleaning Costs
Basic drain-clearing tools are relatively affordable, with manual drain snakes starting at $5. Electric drain cleaners cost $100, while auger rentals cost an average of $100 per day. Purchasing professional-grade augers can cost between $250 and $3,250, depending on size and features. While DIY approaches can be cost-effective for simple clogs, they may not resolve more complex issues.
When to Call a Professional
Consider professional help if you notice multiple drains backing up simultaneously, unusual gurgling sounds from fixtures, or water appearing in one fixture when using another. These symptoms often indicate problems beyond a simple clog, possibly in your main sewer line. Attempting to fix complex issues yourself could potentially lead to additional complications.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
While professional services cost more upfront than DIY methods, they offer several advantages. Professionals bring specialized equipment, technical expertise, and the ability to diagnose underlying issues that might not be apparent. They can often resolve problems more quickly and thoroughly than DIY approaches, potentially preventing recurring issues or more extensive damage.
Budgeting for Drain Cleaning
Consider these cost-saving strategies to make the cost of unclogging a drain more wallet-friendly:
Compare multiple service providers: Gathering several estimates from local drain cleaning pros helps ensure you're paying a fair market rate.
Look for service guarantees: Quality professionals often stand behind their work with satisfaction guarantees.
Consider cleaning multiple drains: Having several drains serviced during the same visit may reduce the per-drain cost.
Plan for routine maintenance: Regular cleaning helps prevent emergency situations that cost more.
Ask about service plans: Some companies offer maintenance packages at reduced rates.
Install protective drain covers: Simple screens can prevent debris from entering your drains.
Be mindful of what goes down drains: Avoid disposing of problematic materials like grease or non-flushable items.
Learn simple maintenance techniques: Basic plunging and proper drain care can prevent many common issues.
Ongoing Drain Maintenance Costs
Thinking about drain care as an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-time fix can save money and prevent headaches.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular professional drain cleaning can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. While the cost of preventative service falls within the average range of $147 to $345, it's much less expensive than emergency services for completely blocked drains.
Repair Costs
When clogs are left untreated, they can lead to more significant plumbing issues. If your garbage disposal needs replacing, expect to pay $60 to $300 for parts plus additional labor costs. More extensive repairs, particularly to sewer lines, can be substantially more expensive than routine cleaning.
Long-Term Solutions
For recurring drain problems, addressing the root cause may be more economical than repeated cleanings. While the initial investment might be higher, eliminating persistent issues can save money over time. Consult with a professional plumber to determine the most cost-effective long-term approach for your specific situation.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.