Drain FAQ
Drain cleaning questions, answered.
Straight answers to what Yuma homeowners ask most often.
How much does drain cleaning cost in Yuma?
It depends on which drain is clogged, how far down the clog is and what equipment it takes. A single sink or toilet costs much less than a main sewer line, hydro jetting or a camera inspection. The technician should give you a price before starting work. Ask what's included and whether there's a charge if they can't clear it.
How do I know if the clog is in my main sewer line?
If several drains are slow at once, if a toilet gurgles when a sink drains, or if water comes up in a tub or shower when you flush or run the washer, the main sewer line is the likely cause.
What is the difference between snaking and hydro jetting?
Snaking uses a cable with a cutting head to break through a clog. Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to scour grease, scale and roots off the full width of the pipe. Jetting is usually recommended for clogs that keep coming back.
Why do drains in Yuma clog so often?
Yuma's hard water leaves mineral scale inside pipes, which narrows them and gives grease and hair a rough surface to stick to. Roots seeking water in the dry climate and heavy monsoon rains also contribute.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe to use?
They are not recommended for stubborn clogs. They rarely clear grease, scale or roots, can damage older pipes and make the job hazardous for a technician. Tell the technician if you have already used one.
What is a sewer camera inspection?
A waterproof camera on a flexible cable is fed through the drain line to show roots, cracks, sags, buildup and blockages. It's useful for repeat clogs, before buying a home and before approving a costly repair. More about camera inspections.
My house smells like sewer after being away for the summer. Why?
When a home sits empty in the heat, the water in each drain trap evaporates and lets sewer gas into the house. Run water in every drain and flush each toilet. If the smell persists or drains are slow, call for help. This is common in Fortuna Foothills and other areas with seasonal homes.
Do you work on septic systems?
Clogged lines on properties with septic systems can be cleared too. Let us know you're on septic when you call, because a backup may mean the tank needs pumping rather than a drain cleaning.
Who is responsible for a clogged drain in a rental home?
Check your lease, but in many cases the landlord or property manager handles drain and sewer line repairs. Contact them first, and treat a sewage backup as an emergency.
How do I check a plumber's license in Arizona?
Plumbing contractors in Arizona are licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). Ask for the license number and look it up on the ROC website before work begins.