Guide
8 Types of Drain Clogs (and How to Tell Which One You Have)
This is a quick breakdown to help you choose the right option fast. For a quote and scheduling, call 888-440-1572.
1. Hair clog
- Best for: Showers and tubs.
- Not ideal for: Main line backups.
- What changes price: Access + fixture type.
- What to tell us on the phone: Which drain and how slow.
2. Grease buildup
- Best for: Kitchen sinks.
- Not ideal for: Chemical-only fixes.
- What changes price: Line length + buildup.
- What to tell us on the phone: If multiple fixtures drain slow.
3. Soap scum
- Best for: Bathroom drains.
- Not ideal for: Recurring issues without cleaning.
- What changes price: Severity.
- What to tell us on the phone: How long it’s been slow.
4. Toilet paper clog
- Best for: Single toilet backup.
- Not ideal for: Overflowing multiple drains.
- What changes price: Auger vs deeper.
- What to tell us on the phone: If toilet is overflowing.
5. Foreign object
- Best for: Sudden full blockage.
- Not ideal for: Plunging repeatedly.
- What changes price: Retrieval complexity.
- What to tell us on the phone: What fell in if known.
6. Root intrusion
- Best for: Main sewer line symptoms.
- Not ideal for: Temporary snaking only.
- What changes price: Camera + repair scope.
- What to tell us on the phone: Gurgling + backups pattern.
7. Collapsed line
- Best for: Severe recurring backups.
- Not ideal for: DIY attempts.
- What changes price: Excavation/lining.
- What to tell us on the phone: If backups are frequent.
8. Vent/blockage issue
- Best for: Gurgling + slow drains.
- Not ideal for: Assuming it’s always a clog.
- What changes price: Diagnosis time.
- What to tell us on the phone: Any gurgling in multiple fixtures.
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