Plumbers use two main methods to unclog drains. The first is a snake, which is a long, flexible metal coil that works its way through tight corners to dislodge whatever is causing the clog. This can be either hand-operated or motorized. More costly is hydro jetting, which involves shooting high-pressure water through a clogged drain to remove buildup from grease and other substances, as well as to remove clogs.

The national average cost to fix a drain ranges anywhere from $202-$607, according to Thumbtack data. This cost is likely to change based on a few factors, including:

• The complexity and location
• The type of property (ex: a house vs. a commercial building)
• The type of repair needed (hydro jetting is more expensive than snaking, for example)
• If the plumber needs to perform a video inspection
• If the plumber needs to fix issues with the main sewer line
• If it’s an emergency repair
• Or if the plumber has to provide additional plumbing repairs

Always get estimates from a handful of plumbers to find out exactly how much your repair will cost. 

*Please note that all pricing represents the national average and is subject to change at any time. Request a quote from a local professional to receive a personalized cost estimate.

Assess the situation and try a few at-home solutions. For example: 

• Did you try several DIY methods (using a plunger, drain cleaner, drain snake, etc.)?
• Are there multiple clogged drains in your home? 
• Do you suspect your main sewer line is clogged?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, it might be worth contacting a plumber near you to come diagnose and fix your drain issue.

Depending on the service you need (unclogging a drain, fixing a pipe, installing new pipes, etc.), plumbers charge anywhere from $45-$165 per hour. Plumbers often operate on a fixed rate model, too. Some won’t charge hourly rates because the variables involved in their work makes it less practical to do so. 

Plumbers will scope out the work, calculate the cost of parts, and roll it together with other fees to give you an estimate for the job. They may even offer standard flat rates for things like installing a toilet or a sink. Reach out to plumbers near you to get an accurate cost estimate for your project or repair.

Plumbers are skilled professionals who are trained to install and maintain pipes and systems for drinking water, sewage and drainage. They usually have trained through four- to five-year training programs, which include apprenticeships, via trade schools and community colleges. Plumbers’ areas of expertise typically go beyond pipes to include mathematics, blueprint reading, plumbing codes and water distribution. They handle plumbing emergencies, such as broken pipes or clogged drains, and install and maintain everything from a new piping system to a replacement faucet. Plumbers also know how to install bathtubs and showers, toilets, water heaters and dishwashers. Plumbers may work on residential or commercial sites, sometimes designing and laying out a pipe system during construction.

Whether you need a plumber to perform drain repair, install a new fixture, or replace rusty pipes, you need to make sure you hire someone reliable who will finish your job on time and within budget. Start by asking the plumbers on your short list these questions:

• What is the total cost? Make sure your estimate includes materials and labor. Find out whether the plumber will be providing the materials and whether you’re being charged an hourly rate (which is variable) or a flat fee.
• Is removal and cleanup included in the job? Some plumbers leave behind old parts, while others include the cleanup in the cost.
• Is the work guaranteed? Find out whether the work (as well as the parts or fixtures) are guaranteed under a warranty.  

Follow these additional tips for confidently hiring a plumber or other skilled professional.