How Long Does Professional Drain Cleaning Take?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Drain Professionally Cleaned?
A clogged drain can be frustrating, and knowing how long it takes to fix can help you plan ahead. Professional drain cleaning services usually take 15 minutes to 3 hours, depending on how severe the clog is, what type of drain is affected, and which cleaning method is used.
For minor clogs in sinks, bathtubs, or showers, a plumber may use a motorized drain auger (commonly called a drain snake) to break up the blockage. This usually takes 15 to 60 minutes. If the clog is deeper, such as grease buildup, scale deposits, or tree root intrusion, plumbers may need to use hydro jetting or main sewer line cleaning, which can take up to three hours or longer.
Understanding the different drain cleaning methods and what affects the timeframe can help you decide whether to schedule routine drain maintenance or call an emergency plumber for urgent issues.
Here's What We Have Covered In This Article
What Affects How Long Drain Cleaning Takes?
Type and Severity of the Blockage
- Hair, soap scum, and food debris are easier to clear and take less time.
- Grease buildup and mineral deposits require high-pressure drain cleaning or chemical descaling.
- Tree root intrusion or a sewer line clog can take longer to resolve and may require camera inspection before cleaning.
Drain Location and Pipe Size
- Kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, and shower drains are usually easier and faster to clean.
- Main sewer line clogs take longer because they may require sewer jetting, root removal, or trenchless pipe repair.
Cleaning Method Used
- Drain snaking is fast and works for minor clogs.
- Hydro jetting takes longer but is needed for tough obstructions.
- Sewer camera inspections add time but help diagnose persistent drain issues.
How Long Do Different Drain Cleaning Methods Take?
How Long Does Drain Snaking Take? (15 to 60 Minutes)
A drain snake is a flexible coil inserted into the pipe to break up or remove clogs. It works well for clearing blockages in kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, and shower P-traps.
- A simple clog may take 15 to 30 minutes to clear.
- Tougher blockages, like thick soap buildup or compacted hair, could take closer to an hour.
How Long Does Hydro Jetting Take? (60 to 90 Minutes)
Hydro jetting is a high-pressure drain cleaning technique that uses a jet of water to remove grease, sludge, and mineral buildup inside pipes.
- Since the pipes need to be inspected first with a sewer camera, hydro jetting takes longer than drain snaking.
- For main sewer lines, hydro jetting can take 60 to 90 minutes.
How Long Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Take? (30 to 60 Minutes)
If a plumber suspects tree roots, pipe damage, or a deep blockage, they may use a sewer camera inspection. A small waterproof camera is inserted into the pipe to locate the issue.
- This process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the length of the pipe and the severity of the blockage.
How Long Does It Take to Clean a Main Sewer Line? (1 to 3 Hours)
A main sewer line clog can affect multiple drains in the house and may require a combination of hydro jetting, drain snaking, and trenchless sewer repair.
- Mild blockages can be cleared in one to two hours.
- Severe clogs caused by tree roots or collapsed pipes may take three hours or more.
What Happens During a Professional Drain Cleaning?
1. Inspection and Diagnosis
The plumber will ask about the issue and may use a sewer camera inspection to check for blockages or pipe damage.
2. Cleaning Process
Depending on the clog, the plumber may use a drain snake, hydro jetting, or chemical descaling to remove the blockage.
3. Final Check
After clearing the drain, the plumber will test the water flow and may recommend preventive maintenance to stop future clogs.
How Long Does It Take a Plumber to Unclog a Drain?
A simple sink drain clog may take 30 minutes or less, while a serious sewer backup can take a few hours. If you have frequent clogs, scheduling routine drain maintenance can help prevent plumbing emergencies.
Drain Cleaning Services in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA
Residents in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA often deal with drain issues due to heavy rainfall, older plumbing systems, and tree root intrusion. Local plumbing services offer hydro jetting, drain snaking, and sewer line repair to keep drains flowing properly.
Common Drain Problems in Portland and Vancouver
- Tree root intrusion – Many homes in these areas have older clay sewer pipes, which tree roots can easily break into.
- Grease buildup – Kitchen drains and restaurants frequently deal with grease clogs that require hydro jetting.
- Heavy rain impact – Oregon and Washington’s wet climate can lead to sewer backups and slow drainage.
Choosing a Local Drain Cleaner
Hiring a licensed plumber in Portland or Vancouver ensures they are familiar with local plumbing codes and climate-related issues. Look for professionals who offer sewer camera inspections, hydro jetting, and trenchless sewer repair.
How to Prevent Future Drain Blockages
- Use drain covers to catch hair and food particles.
- Never pour grease, coffee grounds, or oil down the sink.
- Flush drains with hot water and vinegar regularly.
- Schedule annual drain cleaning services to keep pipes clear.
Call Our Local Plumber In Vancouver WA or Portland OR
FAQs
Can a drain snake damage pipes?
Yes, using a drain auger too forcefully can scratch, crack, or puncture pipes, especially in older homes.
Why does my drain keep clogging even after snaking?
If the clog keeps coming back, it may be due to grease buildup, tree roots, or a main sewer line blockage. A sewer camera inspection can help pinpoint the cause.
How much does a plumber charge for drain cleaning?
Most professional drain cleaning services range from $100 to $300, depending on the type of blockage.
Is hydro jetting better than snaking?
For small clogs, snaking works well. But hydro jetting is the best option for removing grease, sludge, and tough obstructions in main sewer lines.
