Short answer: Drain cleaning clears blockages caused by grease, hair, soap buildup, or debris so water flows the way it should — for a deeper look at specific drain types, see the full Drain Cleaning category.
A drain that's slower than it used to be is one of the most common plumbing complaints homeowners have — and one of the easiest to ignore until it stops draining altogether. Most clogs build up gradually from grease, soap residue, hair, or small debris rather than happening all at once.
This page covers drain cleaning as part of general plumbing service. If your situation is specific to the kitchen, bathroom, main line, or sewer, or if it's an active backup, the dedicated Drain Cleaning category goes into more detail on each.
Signs You May Need This Service
- Water draining slower than usual, or not at all
- Gurgling sounds from a drain or nearby fixture
- Water backing up into a tub or sink when another fixture runs
- A recurring clog in the same drain every few weeks
- A sewage-like smell coming from a drain
What the Service Typically Involves
- Identifying whether the clog is local to one fixture or further down the line
- Clearing the blockage with a drain snake, auger, or hydro-jetting equipment
- Checking for the underlying cause — grease buildup, roots, or a collapsed section
- Recommending a maintenance schedule if the clog is likely to return