Slow Drains
Slow Drains | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Soddy-Daisy
Slow, gurgling drains can bring your Soddy-Daisy household to a standstill, but HEP of Tennessee is ready to clear the way. Our local plumbing pros track down stubborn clogs, tree-root intrusions, and main line issues with cutting-edge camera inspections and hydro-jetting tools, restoring full flow without guesswork or yard-tearing excavation. From the first splash of trouble to the final test flush, you’ll get upfront pricing, clean-sheet workmanship, and the friendly service you expect from a neighbor.
Whether you’re facing periodic backups or a sudden basement flood, we move fast—24/7—to protect your property and your peace of mind. Call, click, or text today and let HEP handle the hard part, so you can get back to enjoying worry-free showers, dishes, and laundry tomorrow.
FAQs
What are the most common reasons for slow drains in Soddy-Daisy homes?
In our area, slow drains are usually caused by a buildup of grease, soap scum, and hair inside branch lines, or by more serious obstructions such as tree-root intrusion, heavy scale, or a separated joint in the main sewer line. Soddy-Daisy’s clay soil and mature shade trees make root growth into older clay or cast-iron pipes especially common. Seasonal storms can also wash debris into cracked lines, narrowing the pipe and slowing flow.
How can I tell whether the clog is in one fixture or in my main sewer line?
A single slow drain—such as a tub that takes forever to empty—usually points to a localized clog in that branch line. When you notice several fixtures backing up at once (for example, the shower gurgles when you flush the toilet or the washing machine causes water to rise in a floor drain), the problem is almost always in the main sewer line. Another tell-tale sign is wastewater appearing in the lowest fixture in the house, typically a basement floor drain.
Are store-bought chemical drain cleaners safe to use?
Chemical drain cleaners are generally not recommended. They can create enough heat to warp PVC, accelerate corrosion in older cast-iron pipes, and kill the beneficial bacteria in septic systems common on the outskirts of Soddy-Daisy. Worse, they rarely reach a deep main-line clog, so you end up with harsh chemicals sitting in the pipe—potentially splashing back during professional cleaning. Mechanical or hydro-jet solutions are safer and far more effective.
What methods do you use to clear main-line blockages?
We start with a video camera inspection to locate the clog and assess pipe condition. For soft obstructions, a professional-grade drain auger (rooter machine) usually restores full flow. For heavy grease, scale, or root mats, we deploy high-pressure hydro-jetting that scours the entire interior diameter of the pipe. If the camera reveals a collapsed or bellied section, we can perform trenchless pipe lining or, when necessary, traditional excavation and replacement.
How much does main-line cleaning or repair cost in Soddy-Daisy?
Pricing depends on the scope of work. A straightforward main-line auger service with camera confirmation typically ranges from $225 to $350. Hydro-jetting runs $400 to $650 because it involves specialized equipment and more labor. Trenchless pipe lining, which avoids digging up your yard, averages $95–$125 per linear foot, while full excavation and replacement can run $60–$100 per foot plus restoration costs. We provide free, no-obligation estimates after the camera inspection so you know the exact price before any work begins.
What can I do to prevent future slow drains and sewer backups?
• Avoid pouring fats, oils, and coffee grounds down the kitchen sink. • Install hair and lint screens in showers, tubs, and washing-machine drains. • Schedule a preventive hydro-jetting service every 18–24 months if you have mature trees near the sewer line. • Use only septic-safe or drain-safe paper products. • Keep an eye on water pressure—rapid cycling fixtures can jar old pipes apart. • If you’re on a septic system, pump the tank every 3–5 years to prevent solids from reaching the main line. These steps, combined with periodic professional inspections, will greatly reduce the likelihood of slow drains and emergency backups in your Soddy-Daisy home.