US guidance
US drain unclogging guide
Diagnose a clogged sink, toilet, shower, floor drain or main sewer line using US terminology, products and professional services.
Start with the problemChoose a pathway
What is blocked?
Start with the affected fixture, then check whether the symptoms appear anywhere else.
Products
Liquids, gels and maintenance treatments
Compare chemistry, suitable blockage types, pipe compatibility, usage limits and safety information before choosing a product.DIY tools
Cup and flange plungers, drain snakes, closet augers and sewer augers
Match the tool to the fixture and understand the point at which more force can damage pipework or push the blockage deeper.Professional help
Hydro jetting, sewer camera inspection, root cutting and trenchless pipe lining
A professional service should match the suspected cause. Clearing restores flow; inspection establishes why it blocked; repair addresses defects that make the problem return.
Information to give the engineer
- Which fixtures are affected
- Whether the problem is slow, fully blocked or backing up
- What tools or products have already been used
- Whether the same blockage has happened before
Local terminology
What the industry calls it in the US
A specialist who clears fixture drains, branch lines or the building sewer.
A capped access point used for inspection, snaking and hydro jetting.
A camera inspection used to locate obstructions, roots and damaged pipe.
A common term for mechanical drain or sewer cleaning. Brand names should not be treated as the generic service.