Clogged drains are often a headache to most homeowners. Besides the inconvenience of dealing with pooled water, blocked drains pose significant health risks. They also encourage foul smells that never seem to go away.
Luckily, professional plumbers have the right skills and tools to clear your drains and restore the clean atmosphere in your home. The question is, what are the costs of clearing a blocked drain?
Let's find out as we discuss what causes a blockage, how plumbers work and why you need an expert.
Causes of a Blocked Drain
There are various causes of blockage in your drains, such as:
Broken, Damaged or Cracked Pipes
Pipes become more prone to damage or cracking as they age. The material can become weaker, tree roots can compress the pipes, or the ground may shift and interfere with the pipes.
Such pipes easily clog and can start leaking if you don’t repair or replace them.
Incorrect Installation
Drainage pipes can also block due to improper installation. Drains require adequate fall or grade to ensure sustainable flow. According to Australian Standards, every meter of piping should have at least a 20mm fall.
Overloaded Drains
Drains often become overloaded when there are more people in your household. Sometimes the waste capacity can exceed what your sewer main can handle. The waste often backs up in some areas, producing unpleasant smells inside and around your home.
How a Plumber Can Unblock a Drain
Some minor drainage clogs easily clear with a plunger and hot water. However, denser clogs require special tools and technology to clear. Most plumbers use tools such as:
Manual and Motorized Drain Eels
Plumbing eels or drain snakes have a long, flexible rod with a hook or cutter at the end. Eels are suitable for minor clogs that involve displacing and pushing debris through the drainage system.
Manual eels have a limited reach of about ten feet (304.8 cm), but electric eels can extend up to 150 feet (4572 cm). Electric eels are more effective against tree roots and stubborn clogs but can damage old piping.
HD Sewer Line and Drain Cameras
This new technology is preferable where manual and electric eels are ineffective. The cameras make it easier to determine the location and cause of the blockage.
Hydro-Jetting Devices
Hydro-jetting machines are the ultimate solution to most blockages. The devices use high-pressure water jets to detach any debris clogging the pipes.
Average Costs of Hiring a Plumber
The cost of clearing a blocked drain varies based on the blockage's extent and the task's nature and complexity.
However, most professional plumbers charge standard fees such as:
Basic blockages that are easy to correct, such as a blocked toilet- $80-$200
Entry-level blockages are more severe and require tools such as an electric eel- $200-250 for the first hour and $24.75 every additional fifteen minutes.
Blockages that require drain snake with HD camera – $300
Severe or extreme blockages that need Hydro-jet devices- $350
Why You Should Call a Plumber for the Job
Save Time and Money
The best way to save money is to maintain your drainage system. Although you can DIY the task, experts understand what to look for and will identify potential problem areas.
Safety
It’s essential to consider your safety before venturing into your drains or piping systems. A licensed plumber has the training, tools and protective gear to remain safe while clearing your drains.
Specialized Technology
Expert plumbers have access to special tools that may be unavailable to you. For instance, licensed plumbers can operate hydro-jetting devices that are more effective than any of your tools.
The experts also understand how to use these effective tools safely to avoid accidents or injuries.
Blocked drains are a pain for most homeowners, and you may be wondering where to start. Although you can DIY the task, you may cause further damage, especially if you have old pipes.A licensed plumber can help locate, unblock and repair most of your drains.