What is The Average Cost to Unclog a Drain

 

What You Can Expect to Pay

Drain problems have a way of showing up when you least expect them. One day everything’s fine, and the next, your sink won’t drain or your toilet starts bubbling. So let’s get straight to it: What is the average cost to unclog a drain in Coquitlam?

For a typical household clog, like a slow kitchen sink or a backed-up shower, you’re looking at $100 to $275. That covers most routine jobs. But if the issue is deeper, like a blockage in your main sewer line or outdoor drainage system, the cost can rise to $500–$800, depending on how complex the fix is and what tools are needed.

🚿 Common Drain Issues Inside the Home

Most clogs happen in the places you use every day, your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Here’s what usually causes them:

• Hair and soap residue in bathroom sinks and tubs

• Grease and food scraps in kitchen drains

• Toilet paper buildup or foreign objects in toilets

For these types of clogs, plumbers typically use:

• Manual drain snakes to break up and remove the blockage

• Enzyme-based cleaners that are safer for your pipes than harsh chemicals

• Plungers and augers for quick, surface-level fixes

These jobs are usually fast and straightforward. But if the same drain keeps clogging, it could be a sign of a bigger issue deeper in the system. Then you might be inclined to ask that question again - what is the average cost to unclog a drain?

🧪 Why Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Can Backfire

It’s tempting to grab a bottle of drain cleaner when things slow down. But here’s the problem: those chemicals are often more trouble than they’re worth.

• They can corrode your pipes, especially older metal ones

• They only treat surface-level clogs, not the root cause

• They can mask deeper problems, allowing them to get worse over time

If you’ve used DIY methods and the issue keeps coming back, it’s time to call a professional who can get to the bottom of it.

🛠️ Sewer Line Blockages: The Bigger Problem

When multiple drains in your home start acting up at once, the issue might be in your main sewer line. Signs include:

• Toilets and sinks backing up simultaneously

• Gurgling noises from your drains

• Unpleasant smells near your fixtures

These blockages are often caused by:

• Tree roots growing into the pipes

• Grease and sludge buildup

• Cracked or collapsed lines

To fix these, plumbers use:

• Camera inspections to locate the exact problem

• Hydro jetting to blast away buildup with high-pressure water

• Rooter machines to cut through roots and compacted debris

These services are more involved and typically cost $300 to $800, depending on the severity and location of the clog.

🌧️ Outdoor Drainage Systems: What’s Underground Matters

Your home’s perimeter drains are designed to keep groundwater away from your foundation. When they clog, water can pool around your house, leading to:

• Basement flooding

• Mold and mildew

• Long-term structural damage

Common causes include:

• Dirt and sediment buildup

• Leaves and outdoor debris

• Mineral deposits

Cleaning these systems often involves:

• Hydro jetting to flush out the blockage

• Camera inspections to pinpoint the problem

• Excavation, if the pipe is damaged or collapsed

Because these systems are buried, cleaning them can cost $400 to $1,000, depending on accessibility and condition.

KCs Plumbing · What-is-the-average-cost-to-unclog-a-drain

🏡 Drain Tiles and Weeping Tiles: Your Hidden Defense

Drain tiles and weeping tiles are similar to perimeter drains but are usually installed under your lawn or basement floor. They help redirect groundwater away from your home. These systems can clog due to:

• Soil infiltration

• Mineral buildup

• Pipe damage

Fixing them involves:

• Locating the blockage

• Flushing the system

• Replacing damaged sections if needed

Expect to pay $500 to $900 for a full cleaning and inspection.

✅ Easy Ways to Prevent Clogs

Want to avoid calling a plumber every few months? These simple habits go a long way:

• Don’t pour grease down the drain; let it cool and throw it out

• Use drain screens to catch hair and food scraps

• Flush with hot water weekly to break down buildup

• Schedule annual inspections, especially if your home is older or surrounded by trees

At KCs Plumbing, we offer maintenance plans that include inspections and minor cleanings, so you can stay ahead of problems before they become emergencies.

🔧 Why Coquitlam Homeowners Choose KCs Plumbing

We’ve been serving Coquitlam for years, and we’ve seen every kind of clog you can imagine. From kitchen sinks full of grease to sewer lines blocked by tree roots, we’ve got the tools and experience to fix it fast, and fix it right.

Our team is friendly, professional, and committed to helping you protect your home. Whether it’s a quick fix or a major repair, we’re here when you need us.

Final Thought: A clogged drain might seem like a small issue, but it can lead to big problems if ignored. Knowing what to expect—and who to call—can save you time, money, and stress. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or just want peace of mind, reach out to KCs Plumbing. We’ll get things flowing again.

KCs Plumbing, Heating & Drain Services

17 Fawcett Rd #115, Coquitlam, BC V3K 6V2

(604) 873-3753

kcplumb.ca/drains