- HEP Plumbing
- Emergency Dispatch

Emergency Dispatch
Emergency Dispatch | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Ducktown
Ducktown homeowners know that a clogged line canât wait, so they call HEPâs emergency dispatch plumbing crew when every second counts. One quick ring sends licensed, background-checked techs racing to your door with video inspection gear, hydro-jetters, and decades of know-how for fast, mess-free drain opening that wipes out kitchen grease, bath sludge, and stubborn tree roots alike. Friendly arrival updates, upfront pricing, and shoe covers on every boot mean the crisis feels under control the moment we knock.
Because backups donât respect business hours, our team stands ready 24/7ârain, shine, or game day. From first hello to final cleanup, youâll experience the courtesy and craftsmanship thatâs made HEP a trusted East Tennessee name for over 20 years, complete with flow-guarantees that last long after we leave. One call is all it takes to bring the relief of expert drain opening straight to your Ducktown doorstep.
FAQs
What qualifies as a plumbing emergency and when should I request an emergency dispatch in Ducktown?
A plumbing emergency is any situation that poses an immediate risk to your property, health, or safetyâsuch as a completely blocked main drain causing sewage backups, burst or leaking pipes, severe toilet overflows, or flood-level water inside the home. If water is rapidly spreading, you smell sewage, or notice gurgling from multiple fixtures, call our 24/7 dispatch line right away. We have on-call licensed plumbers in Ducktown who can be routed to you day or night.
How quickly can your emergency plumbers arrive at my Ducktown location?
Because we keep technicians strategically stationed across Ducktown, typical arrival times range from 30â60 minutes within city limits. Weather, traffic, and call volume can affect travel time, but emergency requests are always prioritized. When you call, our dispatcher will give you a live ETA and text you real-time updates and the plumberâs profile for your peace of mind.
What drain-opening methods do you use during an emergency visit?
Our plumbers carry fully stocked service vans so they can choose the safest and fastest method on site. Options include high-pressure hydro-jetting for stubborn grease or scale, motorized drain snakes for roots or solid obstructions, and non-acidic enzymatic treatments if the clog is caused by organic buildup. We also use in-line video inspection to confirm the blockage source and ensure the pipe is clear before we leave.
Will you need to dig or remove fixtures to clear my blocked drain?
In most emergency cases, we resolve blockages through clean-out ports or fixture drains without excavation. If video inspection reveals a collapsed pipe or severe tree-root intrusion, we may recommend a spot repair or trenchless relining. Before any invasive work begins, we explain the issue, show you video evidence, provide upfront pricing, and obtain your approval.
How much does emergency drain opening service cost, and are there after-hours fees?
Our base emergency dispatch fee in Ducktown starts at $79, which covers travel and initial assessment. The total cost depends on the blockageâs severity, drain length, and method required. Standard mechanical snaking of a residential line averages $150â$250, while hydro-jetting or root removal ranges from $300â$550. Afterâhours (6 PMâ7 AM), weekends, and holidays carry a 15â20% surcharge to cover overtime labor, but all pricing is quoted before work begins.
What can I do to minimize damage while waiting for the plumber to arrive?
1) Shut off the nearest fixtureâs water supply or, if flooding, the main water valve. 2) Avoid using any sinks, toilets, or appliances connected to the clogged line. 3) Remove valuables and electronics from wet areas and place towels or buckets to contain water. 4) Do not pour chemicals down the drainâthey can worsen pipe damage and create hazardous fumes. 5) Ventilate the area if sewage odor is present. Our dispatcher can guide you through these steps on the phone until help arrives.