Slow Drain
Slow Drain | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Farragut
When the shower water rises to your ankles or the kitchen sink gurgles for minutes after every rinse, it’s more than an inconvenience—it’s a sign that something down the line needs attention. HEP’s licensed plumbers specialize in rapid, mess-free drain opening for Farragut homes and businesses, combining state-of-the-art cameras and hydro-jetting equipment with old-fashioned customer care. We pinpoint the clog, clear it without damaging your pipes, and offer tips to keep everything flowing freely long after we leave.
From greasy food buildup to invasive tree roots, no blockage is too stubborn for HEP. Our team arrives when promised, explains the problem in plain language, and backs every job with our “Happy HEPper” satisfaction guarantee. Call or book online today, and turn that slow drain into a smooth pour before your next shower, dinner party, or laundry marathon.
FAQs
What are the most common causes of a slow drain in Farragut homes?
In Farragut, slow drains are usually caused by a buildup of everyday materials—hair, soap scum, food scraps, grease, and mineral scale from our moderately hard water. In older neighborhoods, cast-iron or galvanized pipes can corrode and catch debris more easily, while newer homes with PVC often experience kitchen clogs from cooking oils and coffee grounds. Outdoor roots seeking moisture can also infiltrate the main sewer line, gradually constricting flow and creating a noticeable slowdown inside the house.
When should I call a professional instead of using store-bought drain cleaner?
Liquid drain cleaners contain harsh acids or caustics that can eat away at metal pipes, soften PVC, and kill beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. If you have used a cleaner once without success, notice gurgling noises in other fixtures, or experience repeated clogs in the same line, it’s time to call us. Multiple slow fixtures signal a deeper blockage that chemicals can’t reach—often in the main stack or sewer line. Professional equipment locates and removes the obstruction without risking pipe damage or toxic fumes.
What methods do your technicians use to safely open a clogged drain?
We start with a video camera inspection (when appropriate) to pinpoint the clog’s location and composition. For bathroom and kitchen branch lines we typically use a hand or powered drum auger (snake) to physically break up and retrieve debris. For heavy grease or root intrusions in larger lines, we employ hydro-jetting: a high-pressure water stream that scours the pipe walls 360°. All equipment is matched to your pipe size to avoid scratching or cracking, and we finish with a final camera pass to confirm the pipe is fully clear.
Will drain opening damage my pipes or landscaping?
No. Modern augers have flexible, coated cables that navigate bends without scraping the walls, and hydro-jetting relies solely on water—no blades or chemicals—to clean the line. For sewer issues that require outdoor access, we use your existing clean-out; excavation is only a last resort if the pipe has collapsed. In those rare cases we isolate and repair the smallest possible section to protect your yard, drive, and plantings.
How quickly can you respond to a slow drain call in the Farragut area?
Because we’re located less than 15 minutes from most Farragut neighborhoods, we offer same-day service Monday through Saturday and 24/7 emergency dispatch for fully blocked drains. Our vans are stocked with multiple cable sizes, hydro-jetting hoses, and camera gear, so 90% of problems are resolved in a single visit without waiting for specialty parts.
What can I do to prevent future clogs after your service?
1) Install inexpensive mesh strainers in tubs and showers to trap hair. 2) Run hot water for 30 seconds after each kitchen use, and avoid pouring grease down the sink—collect it in a can instead. 3) Once a month, flush the line with a kettle of near-boiling water followed by a cup of baking soda and vinegar; let it sit 10 minutes, then rinse with more hot water. 4) Schedule an annual camera inspection if you have mature trees near the sewer lateral; early root removal is far cheaper than line replacement. 5) For households with garbage disposals, grind ice cubes and a citrus rind weekly to keep the blades and drain fresh.