Know Who to Call for a Clogged Drain

Who you gonna call? Start with a plumber

Man washing his hands in the bathroom sink
Photo: AzmanJaka / E+ / Getty Images
Man washing his hands in the bathroom sink
Photo: AzmanJaka / E+ / Getty Images
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

If you’re continually reaching for the plunger or your sink is draining slower than it normally does, knowing who to call for a clogged drain is the first step towards fixing it. Hiring a plumber who performs drain cleaning services can ensure the drains are cleaned properly and restored to working order. Licensing requirements for plumbers vary from state to state, but typically they must complete an approved training course or apprenticeship, have a certain number of years of experience, and pass a licensing exam. 

Benefits of Hiring a Drain Cleaning Service for a Clogged Drain

While homeowners can handle certain clogs, like an S-trap, other clogs happen deep in the drain or pipes and require professional help. Plumbers often offer drain cleaning as one of their services, which offers a number of benefits. While the drains in your home are visible, the pipes they connect to are not. Plumbers are well-versed in tracking down clogs and cleaning them out. Hiring a local drain cleaning service can ensure that the clog is actually gone.

Can I DIY Cleaning a Clogged Drain?

To an extent, you can probably clean a clogged drain. If the toilet clogs, you can likely use a plumber to break up the clog and get the water flowing again. You may also be able to learn how to remove a sink drain or how drain cleaner works to clear certain clogs or buildup. For more stubborn clogs, you can use a plumbing snake to break up any debris that is deeper in the drain. If you’ve tried clearing the clog to no avail, then hiring a plumber will likely be your best bet.

Can I Hire a Handyman to Clean a Clogged Drain?

If the handyman holds the proper license, they can offer drain cleaning services. You may be able to find a local handyman who’s knowledgeable and has the necessary tools to clear a clogged drain.

 Plumbers using flexible cameras to reveal drain clog
Photo: aquaArts studio / E+ / Getty Images

How Do Drain Cleaning Services Clean a Clogged Drain?

Plumbers and drain cleaning specialists employ a number of strategies to clean a clogged drain. Some plumbers use flexible cameras that can twist and turn through the pipes and reveal any clogs, build up, roots, or other issues. Depending on what the problems are, plumbers can then treat the issue with products that kill roots or remove clogs. They may also choose to use a drain snake to physically break up clogs and then flush them through the system.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to plumbing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
propane tank between two bushes along side of house
Apr 16, 2025
Apr 16, 2025
The average propane tank costs between $600 and $2,500, depending on the size, location, and more. Our expert guide explores all the factors.
A woman relaxing in the bathtub
Apr 22, 2025
Apr 22, 2025
Why is your bathtub not draining? A clog is the most common cause, but a damaged pipe and other issues could be to blame. Here’s what to do.
Plumbers fixing water pipes in a bathroom sink
Apr 24, 2025
Apr 24, 2025
Are you stumped over the various types of pipes available? Learn all the different plumbing pipe types to choose from in this handy guide.
Close up of stainless steel sink plug hole
Apr 24, 2025
Apr 24, 2025
Yellow sink water looks gross but is actually quite normal and safe. Learn why your sink water is yellow and how to get it running clear again.
Woman washes dishes under running water at kitchen sink
Apr 23, 2025
Apr 23, 2025
From foam to fiberglass, the best pipe insulation to prevent freezing depends on, well, the pipes. This guide will help you choose.
 A woman trying running water from the shower
Apr 22, 2025
Apr 22, 2025
Fluctuating shower temperatures can indicate a problem with your shower. Learn why your shower water is cold, but your sink water is hot, and how to fix it.