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How Much Does It Cost To Clean A Main Sewer Line?

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Key Takeaways

Key PointDescription
Average Cost to Snake a Sewer Line$150 – $500
Average Sewer Line Hydro Jetting Cost$250 – $800
Average Cost for Chemical Treatment$15 – $100
Cost to Repair or Replace Main Drain$500 – $4,000

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Main Sewer Line Clog Cost

Cleaning a clogged main sewer line can be costly depending on the method and severity of the clog. Here’s a breakdown:

Main Sewer Line Clog Cost Table

MethodCost To Unclog
Snaking$150 – $500
Hydro Jetting$250 – $800

Average Cost to Clean a Main Sewer Line Clog

ServiceCost
National Average Cost$337
Minimum Cost$150
Maximum Cost$1,000
Average Range$175 to $500

Cost To Clean A Sewer Line

Various methods exist to clean a sewer line, each with associated costs.

Sewer Line Cleaning Cost Table

MethodAverage Cost
Snaking / Rodding$150 – $500
Hydro Jetting$250 – $800
Chemical Treatment$15 – $100
Repair or Replace Main Drain$500 – $4,000

Hydro Jetting Cost

Hydro Jetting Price List

TypeCost Range
Residential$250 – $1,000
Commercial$500 – $3,000

Hydro jetting is a powerful method using high-pressure water streams to clear clogs.

Cost To Snake Main Sewer Line

Snaking is a less intensive but still effective method for clearing sewer lines.

Chemical Cleaners To Unclog Sewer Line

Chemical treatments offer an alternative method for removing blockages.

Chemical Drain Line Cleaning Costs

ChemicalPriceFacts
RootX$30 – $100– Foaming herbicide
– Eco-friendly
– Won’t harm pipes or vegetation
Bio-Clean$50 – $100– Natural bacteria and enzymes
– Eco-friendly
Copper Sulfate Crystals$15 – $70– Effective on tree roots
– Toxic to pets and environment
Sodium Chloride$15 – $70– Melts greasy clogs
– Toxic to soil ecosystem if pipes have cracks
Drano, Roebic, Liquid-Plumr, Green Gobbler$5 – $15– Ineffective on sewer lines
– Eco-friendly
– Pipe safe

Repairing or Replacing A Main Drain

Depending on the damage or clog, repairing or replacing the main drain could be necessary, with costs ranging from $500 to $4,000.

Sewer Drain Cleaning Cost Factors

Several factors impact the cost of sewer drain cleaning.

Sewer and Drain Cleaning Costs

ServiceAverage Cost
Sewer Camera Inspection Cost$125 – $500
Remove Tree Roots$200 – $600
Remove & Reseal Toilet$100 – $150
Sewage Backup Cleanup$1,000 – $5,000
Storm Drain Cleaning$200 – $600
Install Sewer Cleanout$600 – $2,000
Plumbing Labor Rates$45 – $150 per hour

Plumber Costs To Unclog Main Sewer Line

Hiring a professional plumber incurs labor costs, typically ranging from $45 to $150 per hour.

How To Clean Sewer Line

Kitchen & Bathroom Clogs

These are often easier to clear and may require simple tools or chemical treatments.

Main Line Blockages

Mainline blockages are more severe and generally require professional intervention.

Sewer Scope Inspection

This involves using a camera to inspect the sewer line for blockages or damage, costing $125 to $500.

Cost To Remove Tree Roots In Sewer Line

Removing tree roots can cost between $200 and $600, depending on the extent of the infestation.

Sewage Backup Cleanup Cost

Cleaning up after a sewage backup can be expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

Roto Rooter Hydro Jetting Cost

Roto Rooter services typically cost more, reflecting the expertise and equipment used.

Storm Drain Cleaning Cost

Public Storm Drain Cleaning

Cleaning public storm drains often requires specialized equipment and services. Costs can range from $200 to $600.

Sewer Cleanout Cost

Installing a sewer cleanout can range from $600 to $2,000, making future maintenance easier and more accessible.

Signs Main Sewer Line Is Clogged

Recognizing the signs of a clogged main sewer line can help prevent severe damage.

Common Signs

  • Multiple drains are slow or clogged.
  • Water backs up in other drains.
  • Gurgling sounds in toilets.

What Causes Sewer Backup

Tree roots, grease buildup, and foreign objects can cause sewer backups, requiring professional cleaning to resolve.

Preventing Main Sewer Line Clogs

  • Avoid pouring grease down the drain.
  • Regularly clean sewer lines.
  • Plant trees away from sewer lines.

Main Sewer Line Cleaning FAQs

What Is Jetting A Sewer Line?

Jetting involves using high-pressure water to clean the inside of sewer pipes.

Hydrojet vs. Snake

MethodProsCons
Hydrojet– Eco-friendly
– Works on all pipe types
– Deeper clean
– Longer-lasting
– More expensive
– Requires professional service
Snake– Cost-effective
– Easy for DIY
– Suitable for minor clogs and old pipes
– Less effective
– Temporary solution
– Can harm pipes

How Often To Clean Sewer Lines?

Regular cleanings once every 18–22 months can prevent significant issues.

How Long Does Hydro Jetting Last?

Hydro jetting can keep pipes clear for several years, depending on usage and pipe condition.

How Long Does Hydro Jetting Take?

The process can take between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the length and condition of the sewer line.

Will Drano Unclog Main Sewer Line?

Drano and similar products are not recommended for main sewer lines as they may not be effective and could damage pipes.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Roots In Sewer Line?

Often, homeowners insurance does not cover damage caused by tree roots, so it’s crucial to check your policy.

DIY Sewer Line Clearing Cost

For those looking to clear their sewer lines themselves, here are some average costs.

DIY Sewer Line Clearing Cost

MethodAverage Cost
Chemical Cleaners$5 – $300
Manual Snake$15 – $100
Machine Snake Rental$30 – $80 per day
Hydrojet Rental$100 – $200 per day
Drain Camera Rental$120 – $225 per day

Hydro Jetting Machine Cost

MethodAverage Cost
Cart$1,500 – $4,500
Trailer$5,000 – $20,000

Hiring A Sewer Cleaning Company

Hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly and safely.

Can I Get Cheap Sewer Line Cleaning?

While cheaper options exist, quality should not be compromised. Always opt for reputable and professional services.

In summary, cleaning a main sewer line involves varying costs depending on the chosen method and the severity of the clog. Regular maintenance and timely inspections can prevent extensive repairs and maintain a healthy sewer system.

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