Let’s Talk About Cost First 

If you’ve got a sink that won’t drain, a toilet that’s bubbling, or a shower that’s turned into a mini swimming pool, you’re probably wondering: What is the average cost to unclog a drain?

In Coquitlam, the average cost to unclog a drain is usually between $100 and $275. That’s for the typical clogs we see every day, hair in the shower, grease in the kitchen sink, or a little too much toilet paper. But if the problem runs deeper, like in your main sewer line or outdoor drainage system, the price can go up to $500–$800, depending on how tricky the job is and what kind of equipment is needed.

🚿 Everyday Drain Clogs: What’s Causing the Trouble?

Most clogs happen in the places you use the most, your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Here are the usual suspects:

• Hair and soap scum in bathroom drains

• Grease and food scraps in kitchen sinks

• Toilet paper or foreign objects in toilets

To clear these up, plumbers often use:

• Drain snakes to break up and pull out the blockage

• Enzyme-based cleaners that are gentle on your pipes

• Plungers and augers for quick, surface-level fixes

These jobs are usually fast and affordable. But if the same drain keeps clogging, it might be a sign of something more serious deeper in your plumbing system. If that's the case you might ask the question again, what is the average cost to unclog a drain, but with a slight edge of anxiety.

🧪 Why DIY Drain Cleaners Can Be Risky

It’s tempting to grab a bottle of drain cleaner when things slow down. But here’s the thing, those chemicals can do more harm than good:

• They can damage your pipes, especially if they’re older

• They don’t reach deep clogs, so the problem often comes back

• They can mask bigger issues, which might get worse over time

If you’ve tried DIY fixes and the clog keeps returning, it’s probably time to call in a professional who can get to the root of the problem.

🛠️ Sewer Line Blockages: When It’s More Than Just a Sink

If multiple drains in your home are acting up at once, the issue might be in your main sewer line. Here’s what to watch for:

• Toilets and sinks backing up at the same time

• Gurgling sounds from your drains

• Unpleasant smells near your fixtures

These blockages are often caused by:

• Tree roots growing into the pipes

• Grease and sludge buildup

• Cracked or collapsed lines

To fix these, plumbers use:

• Camera inspections to find the exact problem

• Hydro jetting to blast away buildup with high-pressure water

• Rooter machines to cut through roots and compacted debris

These services are more involved and typically cost $300 to $800, depending on how deep and stubborn the clog is.

🌧️ Outdoor Drainage: What’s Happening Underground

Your home’s perimeter drains are designed to keep groundwater away from your foundation. When they clog, water can pool around your house and cause:

• Basement leaks

• Mold and mildew

• Structural damage

Common causes include:

• Dirt and sediment buildup

• Leaves and outdoor debris

• Mineral deposits

Cleaning these systems often involves:

• Hydro jetting to flush out the blockage

• Camera inspections to locate the problem

• Excavation, if the pipe is damaged or collapsed

Because these systems are buried, cleaning them can cost $400 to $1,000, depending on how accessible they are.

🏡 Drain Tiles and Weeping Tiles: Your Hidden Helpers

Drain tiles and weeping tiles are similar to perimeter drains but are usually installed under your lawn or basement floor. They help redirect groundwater away from your home. These systems can clog due to:

• Soil and sediment

• Mineral buildup

• Pipe damage

Fixing them involves:

• Locating the blockage

• Flushing the system

• Replacing damaged sections if needed

Expect to pay $500 to $900 for a full cleaning and inspection.

✅ Easy Tips to Keep Your Drains Flowing

Want to avoid frequent plumbing calls? These simple habits can help:

• Don’t pour grease down the drain—let it cool and toss it in the trash

• Use drain screens to catch hair and food scraps

• Flush with hot water weekly to help clear minor buildup

• Schedule annual inspections, especially if your home is older or surrounded by trees

At KCs Plumbing, we offer maintenance plans that include inspections and minor cleanings—so you can stay ahead of problems before they become emergencies.

🔧 Why Coquitlam Homeowners Call KCs Plumbing

We’ve been helping folks in Coquitlam for years, and we’ve seen just about every kind of clog you can imagine. From kitchen sinks full of grease to sewer lines blocked by tree roots, we’ve got the tools and know-how to fix it fast, and fix it right.

Our team is friendly, professional, and always happy to help. Whether it’s a quick fix or a major repair, we’re here when you need us.

Final Thought: A clogged drain might seem like a small issue, but it can lead to big problems if ignored. Knowing what to expect, and who to call, can save you time, money, and stress. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or just want peace of mind, reach out to KCs Plumbing. We’ll get things flowing again.

KCs Plumbing, Heating & Drain Services

17 Fawcett Rd #115, Coquitlam, BC V3K 6V2

(604) 873-3753

kcplumb.ca/drains