- HEP Plumbing
- Stubborn Clog

Stubborn Clog
Stubborn Clog | Plumbing | Tellico Plains
When sinks gurgle, tubs back up, and nothing you pour down seems to budge the blockage, Tellico Plains homeowners know it’s time to call HEP. Our local crew arrives fast, armed with video-inspection cameras and high-pressure jetting tools that cut through years of grease, soap scum, and intrusive roots without harming your pipes. We treat every stubborn clog as if it were in our own home—respecting your space, offering upfront pricing, and leaving the work area spotless when we’re done.
From historic cabins near the Cherohala Skyway to new builds on the outskirts of town, we’ve tackled every imaginable drain disaster and backed each fix with a satisfaction guarantee. Day or night, weekend or holiday, you’re never left waiting or wondering, because real neighbors answer our phones 24/7 and dispatch help on the spot. Put simply, when you need dependable plumbing relief in Tellico Plains, HEP is the name you can count on.
FAQs
What are the most common causes of stubborn drain clogs in Tellico Plains homes?
In our area, we see clogs most often from a buildup of cooking grease, food scraps, coffee grounds, hair, and soap scum. Older Tellico Plains homes may also have cast-iron or clay pipes that accumulate mineral scale and rust flakes, which trap debris. Tree roots intruding into sewer lines are another frequent culprit, especially on wooded lots.
Can I clear a severe clog myself, or should I call a professional plumber?
Minor sink or tub blockages can sometimes be cleared with a plunger or a short, hand-crank drain snake. If water is backing up into multiple fixtures, you hear gurgling in other drains, or household remedies haven’t worked after 10–15 minutes, it’s best to call a licensed plumber. Persistent clogs may be deep in the main line, require specialized augers or hydro-jetting equipment, and can cause pipe damage or sewage backups if DIY efforts go wrong.
What specialized methods do you use to remove stubborn clogs?
After a video camera inspection to locate the blockage precisely, we choose the least invasive but most effective method. For heavy grease and sludge, we use motorized augers followed by hydro-jetting, which blasts 3,000–4,000 PSI water to scour pipe walls clean. For root intrusions, we employ a cutter head auger or hydro-jetter with a root-cutting nozzle and then apply a root-inhibiting foam. If the pipe is damaged, we offer trenchless spot repairs or pipe lining.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency clog in Tellico Plains?
We provide 24/7 emergency service within the Tellico Plains city limits and surrounding Monroe County communities. In most cases, a licensed technician can be onsite within 60–90 minutes—often sooner during regular business hours. Our trucks are fully stocked so we can diagnose and clear the clog on the first visit.
Will clearing a stubborn clog damage my plumbing or landscaping?
No. Modern methods like camera inspections, hydro-jetting, and trenchless repair minimize disruption. We avoid digging unless the pipe is collapsed or severely broken. Hydro-jetting is safe for PVC, ABS, copper, and cast-iron lines when performed by trained professionals. If excavation is unavoidable, we keep the trench as small as possible and restore landscaping before we leave.
How much does professional clog removal typically cost in Tellico Plains?
For a single interior drain, prices usually range from $125–$225, depending on access and severity. Main sewer line clogs that require camera inspection and hydro-jetting often run $350–$650. Extensive root removal, pipe repair, or after-hours emergency calls can add to the total. We provide upfront, flat-rate quotes after the inspection, so you know the exact cost before work begins.