How Much Does Drain Cleaning Cost? A Guide

Drain problems are among the most common—and most frustrating—issues homeowners and business owners face. Whether it’s a slowly draining sink, a backed-up toilet, or a gurgling sewer line, clogs can disrupt your daily routine and, if left untreated, lead to costly plumbing repairs. That’s why understanding how much drain cleaning costs in 2025 is essential for anyone responsible for maintaining a property.

Knowing the average prices, factors influencing cost, and what to expect from professional services helps you plan better, avoid overpaying, and act quickly when issues arise. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of drain cleaning costs, from common service types like snaking and hydro jetting to real-world pricing, factors that affect cost, and tips to save money without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re a homeowner facing a slow kitchen sink or a business managing multiple bathrooms, you’ll find everything you need to make informed decisions.

2. What Is Drain Cleaning? (And When You Need It)

Drain cleaning refers to the process of clearing blockages and buildup from your plumbing system to restore proper water flow. Over time, debris such as hair, soap scum, grease, food particles, mineral deposits, and even tree roots can accumulate and lead to partial or complete clogs.

Common Drain Problems Include:

Slow draining sinks or bathtubs
Standing water that doesn’t clear
Gurgling noises from drains or toilets
Unpleasant odors indicating trapped debris or mold
Recurring clogs even after temporary fixes

When these symptoms appear, it’s time to consider professional drain cleaning. Ignoring the problem can lead to burst pipes, water damage, or severe sewer backups that cost thousands to fix.

Types of Drains Commonly Affected:

Kitchen sinks – Frequently clogged by food scraps, grease, and dish soap
Bathroom drains – Hair, toothpaste, and soap can clog tubs and sinks
Toilets – Often blocked by non-flushable items or buildup
Floor drains – Found in basements, laundry rooms, and garages; often catch dirt and debris
Main sewer lines – Clogged by tree roots, waste buildup, or pipe collapse

Each type of drain may require a different cleaning method and level of effort, which directly impacts the overall cost.

3. Average Cost of Drain Cleaning in 2025

The average cost of drain cleaning in 2025 ranges between $100 and $600, depending on the complexity of the clog, the method used, and the location of the blockage. Minor kitchen or bathroom sink clogs will fall on the lower end of the spectrum, while main sewer line or severe blockage issues will cost more.

Price Ranges by Service Type:

Service Type	Estimated Cost (2025)
Basic Drain Snaking	$100 – $250
Motorized Auger Use	$200 – $350
Hydro Jetting	$300 – $600
Video Camera Inspection	$150 – $400
Emergency After-Hours Call	$150 – $500+

What Influences the Price?

Severity of the clog – A minor blockage costs less to fix than a completely clogged sewer line.
Drain location – Bathroom and kitchen sink clogs are easier (and cheaper) than basement or sewer line issues.
Type of building – Commercial properties with complex plumbing systems may incur higher fees.
Tools and techniques used – Basic snaking is cheaper than high-pressure hydro jetting or diagnostics using a video scope.

In some cases, a plumber may offer bundled pricing if multiple drains need cleaning or if inspections and follow-ups are included. Always ask for a quote that outlines what’s included so there are no surprises.

4. Cost by Drain Type: What You’re Really Paying For

Drain cleaning isn’t a one-size-fits-all service—each type of drain comes with its own set of challenges, equipment requirements, and potential labor costs. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged toilet or a blocked main sewer line, the type of drain significantly influences the overall price you’ll pay for cleaning. To help you plan and budget effectively, we’ve broken down the average costs by drain type and explained what goes into each service.

Estimated Drain Cleaning Costs by Type (2025)

Drain Type	Estimated Cost Range	What You’re Paying For
Kitchen Sink Drain	$100 – $250	Removal of food, grease, and soap buildup using manual or motorized snaking tools.
Bathroom Sink/Shower	$100 – $225	Clearing hair and soap scum, often with a hand auger or small drain snake.
Toilet Clogs	$125 – $300	Unblocking waste and non-flushables using plungers, augers, or mechanical snakes.
Floor/Laundry Drains	$150 – $350	Removing sediment, lint, or debris, often requiring a drain machine or camera inspection.
Main Sewer Line	$250 – $600+	Dealing with severe clogs like tree roots or heavy buildup using hydro jetting and video inspections.

Kitchen Sink Drain

Kitchen sinks are notorious for clogs caused by grease, oils, and food particles. Even with a garbage disposal, over time, buildup can create a stubborn blockage. Professionals usually use a snaking tool to clear these clogs quickly. The cost is typically low unless the issue extends into deeper pipes.

Bathroom Sink or Shower Drain

Hair, soap scum, and residue from hygiene products are the most common culprits in bathroom sinks and shower drains. Cleaning these usually involves a quick snaking procedure or manual removal. Costs remain relatively low, but recurring clogs may indicate a deeper issue in your plumbing system.

Toilet Clogs

Toilet blockages are more complex, especially if someone flushed inappropriate items or there’s a deeper clog in the waste line. Basic plunging might not cut it—plumbers often need augers or specialty tools. Severe cases may require removing the toilet or accessing the main drain.

Floor and Laundry Drains

These types of drains are typically located in basements, utility rooms, or garages. They’re prone to sediment buildup, laundry lint, and even rodents. Cleaning them may involve hydro jetting or extensive snaking, which increases the service time and price.

Main Sewer Line

This is the most expensive type of drain cleaning because of the scope and risk involved. Main sewer line blockages can lead to raw sewage backups—a health hazard that requires immediate attention. This service often includes camera inspection and hydro jetting, both of which add to the final cost.

Cost Comparison Chart (Estimated)

Drain Type	Low End	High End
Kitchen Sink	$100	$250
Bathroom Sink/Shower	$100	$225
Toilet	$125	$300
Floor/Laundry Drain	$150	$350
Main Sewer Line	$250	$600+

5. Factors That Affect Drain Cleaning Costs

While national averages and price ranges provide a general idea, the actual cost of your drain cleaning service can vary significantly depending on several key factors. Knowing what drives prices up or down can help you make smarter decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives.

1. Severity and Type of Clog

A minor clog close to the surface is easier—and cheaper—to fix than a deep, stubborn blockage. For example, a slow drain due to soap scum may cost under $150 to clean, while a main sewer line blocked by tree roots could exceed $600.

2. Location of the Clog

Where the clog is located within your plumbing system matters. Drains that are harder to access or located underground (like the main line) typically require more time, specialized tools, or even excavation—resulting in higher costs.

3. Method of Cleaning

The cleaning technique also affects cost:

Basic snaking or rodding is typically the most affordable.
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to blast through tough clogs and buildup—ideal for main lines, but it’s more expensive.
Camera inspections are often used for diagnostics and can add $100–$300 to your service bill, depending on whether it’s bundled with other services.

4. Emergency or After-Hours Service

Need help on a weekend or holiday? Emergency or after-hours calls often come with a premium charge—sometimes up to 1.5x or 2x the standard rate.

5. Geographic Location

Labor rates and service availability vary by region. For example, urban areas with a higher cost of living may charge more than rural areas.

6. Plumbing Company Rates

Each plumbing service has its own pricing model. Some offer flat rates for common issues, while others charge by the hour (typically $75–$150/hr). Hiring a reputable, licensed plumber may cost more upfront but reduces the risk of repeat problems.

Understanding these variables can help you better estimate the total cost of your drain cleaning project. Ask your plumber for a written estimate upfront and inquire about any potential additional charges that might arise if more extensive work is required.

6. DIY vs. Professional Drain Cleaning Costs: What You Should Know

When your drain slows or clogs, it’s tempting to reach for a plunger or chemical cleaner—but is that really the best choice in the long run? Here’s a breakdown of how DIY and professional drain cleaning approaches compare in terms of cost, effectiveness, and risk.

DIY Drain Cleaning Costs

Homeowners often start with DIY solutions to save money. Here’s what you might spend:

DIY Method	Estimated Cost	Effectiveness
Plunger	$5 – $15	Good for minor toilet or sink clogs
Drain snake (hand auger)	$20 – $50	Moderate—best for shallow clogs
Chemical drain cleaner (not recommended)	$8 – $25	Short-term relief, but can damage pipes
Baking soda & vinegar	Under $5	Mild effectiveness, good for slow drains
Wet/dry vacuum	$50 – $150 (if owned)	Useful for sinks and tubs

While DIY tools can be helpful for simple clogs, they often fail to address deeper, more complex blockages—and in some cases, they can make matters worse. Chemical cleaners, in particular, can corrode older plumbing over time and create costly repairs down the road.

Professional Drain Cleaning Costs

Hiring a licensed plumber ensures a thorough and safe solution. Here’s what you’re typically paying for:

Professional Method	Estimated Cost	Effectiveness
Standard snaking	$100 – $250	Effective for most household clogs
Hydro jetting	$300 – $600+	Clears grease, roots, scale, and heavy buildup
Video camera inspection	$150 – $350	Helps locate and diagnose tough clogs
Sewer line cleaning	$250 – $800+	Often required for major backups

While the upfront cost may be higher, professional drain cleaning offers long-term value by fully resolving the issue and preventing repeat clogs. Technicians can also identify other plumbing issues early, potentially saving you thousands in future repairs.

If your clog is minor and close to the surface, DIY might be worth a try. But if you’re dealing with recurring issues, backups, or a main sewer line clog, investing in a professional drain cleaning service is the safest and most cost-effective option in the long run.

What to Expect From a Drain Cleaning Service

At Cottrell Plumbing, Heating & Air, we know that drain issues can disrupt your day and damage your property if not addressed promptly. That’s why we offer professional, efficient, and courteous drain cleaning services across South Carolina—designed to get your home or business back to normal fast. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us for your next drain cleaning project.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Service Process

Thorough Diagnosis

Our service begins with a detailed inspection. Whether it’s a slow drain, backup, or gurgling noise, our licensed technicians will assess the problem and determine the cause.
For more complex issues, we use advanced video camera inspection tools to pinpoint the exact location of the clog or blockage.

Customized Drain Cleaning Plan

Every plumbing system is different. We recommend the most effective solution based on your unique situation—whether it’s a traditional drain snaking, high-pressure hydro jetting, or a combination of both.

Expert Cleaning Execution

Once the plan is approved, we carefully execute the cleaning using industry-leading tools. Our team ensures minimal disruption to your home or business while restoring full flow to your pipes.

Testing & Quality Assurance

After the blockage is cleared, we thoroughly test the drain system to ensure proper drainage and no hidden issues.
We’ll also share professional recommendations to help you prevent future clogs.

Tools We Use

Cottrell Plumbing, Heating & Air equips every technician with the latest technology and tools for fast and effective results, including:

Drain snakes and augers for physical removal of debris
Hydro jetting equipment to break through grease, sludge, or even tree roots
Waterproof video inspection cameras to assess interior pipe conditions
High-powered drain machines for severe blockages
Protective gear for hygienic and safe service

Cleanup and Safety Considerations

Our team treats your home or business with the utmost respect. During every drain cleaning visit, you can expect:

Clean, organized work areas: We use drop cloths and shoe covers to protect your floors.
Sanitary cleanup: All messes and debris are removed, leaving your space clean and safe.
Strict safety standards: From wastewater management to post-cleaning disinfection, we follow proven protocols to safeguard your family and property.

Need fast, dependable drain cleaning in South Carolina?
Trust the local experts at Cottrell Plumbing, Heating & Air to deliver reliable results with unmatched customer care. Contact us today to schedule your service and experience the difference.

Conclusion

When it comes to maintaining the health of your plumbing system, professional drain cleaning isn’t just a quick fix—it’s a smart investment. From slow-draining sinks and stubborn toilet clogs to deep sewer line backups, understanding how much drain cleaning costs and what to expect during the process helps you make confident, informed decisions. At Cottrell Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’re proud to offer affordable, transparent, and effective drain cleaning services throughout South Carolina. Our team is committed to quality work, cutting-edge tools, and the kind of customer service that keeps your home or business flowing smoothly—day or night.

Don’t wait for a small clog to become a major headache. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency or want to prevent future problems, contact Cottrell Plumbing, Heating & Air today to schedule your drain cleaning service or request a free estimate.