Emergency Drain Cleaning: When to Call a Pro

Not all clogs are created equal. Some are a quick fix. Others are a sign of a deeper issue and best left to a professional. So, how do you know when it’s time to call for 24-hour emergency sewer and drain cleaning? We’ll break it down here.

What Constitutes a Plumbing Emergency?

Multiple Clogged Drains

If multiple drains are backing up at the same time, chances are the problem isn’t isolated to a single pipe. More likely, it’s a blockage in the main sewer line. This type of issue can affect your entire plumbing system, and unfortunately, no amount of plunging will fix it.

Sewer Backups

If wastewater is backing up into your sinks, tubs, or floor drains, it’s time to pick up the phone. Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants that pose serious health risks. It’s also a clear signal that your main line is either severely clogged or damaged.

Leaks

A blocked drain not only stops flow but also causes pressure to build up in pipes. And when that pressure has nowhere to go, it often finds a crack or weak joint in the pipes. This can lead to leaks behind walls, under floors, or in your ceiling.

If you notice stains, bubbling paint, warped floors, or other signs of water damage, call a professional. Water leaks can cause a range of issues, including structural damage and mold growth.

Harmful Gases

If you notice a persistent odor (think rotten eggs), you may be dealing with a sewer gas leak. While unpleasant, uncontained gas is also dangerous, as it contains methane and ammonia. Even a small amount of exposure can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

The Dangers of DIY Solutions

While it may be tempting to take a DIY approach, doing so can cause more harm than good. Here’s why:

Chemical Combinations

Over-the-counter drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that aren’t just dangerous—they generally do not solve the root issue. Worse, they can damage your pipes and cause chemical burns.

Voided Warranties

Plumbing components, like water heaters, fixtures, sump pumps, and appliances, generally come with manufacturer warranties. But these warranties only apply if the product is installed and maintained by a professional. DIY repairs could void that coverage, leaving you on the hook for repairs or replacement.

Insurance May Not Cover the Damage

In some cases, insurance won’t cover water damage or system failures caused by DIY repairs. So if you or an unlicensed handyman make things worse, you could be looking at thousands in out-of-pocket expenses.

You May Miss Hidden Damage

Even if you clear that stubborn clog, there’s a good chance you didn’t address the deeper issue, whether it’s tree root invasion, pipe misalignment, or a broken sewer line.

Our Emergency Sewer Drain Cleaning Solutions

At Stephens, we don’t just show up with a plunger. Our team uses advanced tools to address the root cause of your plumbing emergency. Here’s what we can help with:

• Sewer Line Repair & Replacement: From cracked or offset pipes to full replacements, we’ll fix the problem at the source. We even offer trenchless sewer repair to minimize disruption and costs.
• Hydro Jetting: Our hydro jetting tools blast away roots and buildup—without damaging pipes or digging up your yard.
• Sewer Camera Inspection: We use live camera technology to diagnose emergency plumbing and drain cleaning issues. Whether it’s root intrusion, corrosion, or a broken pipe, our cameras will pinpoint the problem.
• 24-Hour Service: When you need emergency drain cleaning service, you need it now, not tomorrow or next week. We are always on call and ready to help.

Need Emergency Plumbing & Drain Cleaning?

Whether you’re dealing with a backup, leak, or stubborn clog, we’ll arrive fast, diagnose the issue, and get your system back up and running—without all the mess or guesswork. Contact us now!