Clogged Drain Services

Free Estimates for Heating, Air Conditioning, Water & Sewer Main Replacements

Clogged Drain Services
in DC, Maryland & Northern Virginia

You know that feeling: the heart-stopping moment your toilet flows up instead of down when you flush, or when dirty water stagnates in your kitchen sink. Despite your best efforts, the clogs just won’t go away. That’s when you need a professional plumber.

At John C. Flood, we provide expert drain clearing services in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.. We use advanced, high-powered techniques to thoroughly eliminate all obstructions from any of your household drains. Our licensed plumbers work quickly and professionally to clear whatever might be causing the blockage and get your pipes working again.

For over 120 years, we’ve been the trusted plumbers in the DMV area. Contact us as soon as one of your drains gets clogged!

Safety & Compliance Standards for Gas Line Work

Sometimes you’ll notice right away that something’s wrong with one of your household drains. Other symptoms are less obvious but just as important.

Slow-draining or standing water: These are common signs that you may need professional drain cleaning services. Over time, substances like hair, soap scum, grease, and food particles can accumulate in your home’s various drains, reducing the flow of water and leading to clogs.
Gurgling sounds: Gurgling drains occur when air bubbles become trapped in clogs and try to escape as water flows through the pipes. This distinctive sound often signals a partial blockage, which, if left untreated, can lead to slow drainage or complete clogs.
Foul odors: Foul smells from drains often result from a buildup of food particles, grease, or organic matter in pipes. As this material decomposes, it releases odors. In some cases, these smells could signal a more serious issue, like a sewer line problem or bacterial growth, that requires immediate attention.
Frequent clogs or backups in multiple drains: Recurring blockages suggest that there’s a more significant underlying issue within your plumbing system. Over time, grease, soap residue, hair, and other materials can accumulate deep in your pipes, creating a persistent blockage that typical DIY methods may not fully resolve.
Water backs up in sinks when appliances run: Most homes have a shared drain pipe for kitchen appliances and washers. That pipe often gets clogged with debris from your washing machine as well as your kitchen sink. If this happens to you, it means your main water line is probably clogged.

More Serious Causes of Clogs

In addition to the everyday buildup we discussed, there may be more serious underlying issues with your plumbing system. Tree roots, for instance, can break through underground pipes through tiny cracks or joints, gradually expanding and blocking water flow. Pipe corrosion, often caused by age or chemical reactions with water, can lead to rough interior surfaces where debris easily catches and accumulates. Other structural problems, such as pipe collapse, shifting soil, or improper installation, can also restrict drainage and cause recurring clogs. These deeper issues nearly always require professional inspection and repair to prevent extensive damage and restore proper plumbing function.

Types of Drain Clogs We Fix

John C. Flood’s professionals arrive at your home with the tools, knowledge, and experience to handle all your drain cleaning needs, both inside and outside your home. From routine maintenance to emergency interventions, we ensure your plumbing system operates smoothly and efficiently.

Here are some of the most common drain clogs we help homeowners tackle.

Kitchen Drain Clogs

If you’re dealing with a clogged kitchen sink drain, do what you can to redirect water flow and avoid using the sink until professional help arrives.

Kitchen drain clogs are usually caused by:

Grease
Soap scum
Food waste buildup
Disposal overload or jammed blades

Deep, impenetrable clogs may require specialized removal that only a professional plumber can handle.

Clogged Shower Drain

If you’re experiencing slow-draining or stagnant water in your shower or bathtub, you may need a professional drain cleaning. While you wait for your plumber to arrive, try to manage any overflow to prevent water damage. Use cups, bowls, pots, or buckets to remove standing water.

Shower and bathtub clogs are usually caused by:

Hair
Soap and mineral residue

Without immediate attention, the standing or overflowing water in your bathtub or shower can cause extensive (and costly) water damage or hazardous mildew.

Bathroom Sink Clogs

Bathroom sinks handle various materials, but can easily clog due to their smaller pipe diameter. The most common causes of clogs in bathroom sinks include:

Toothpaste
Soap residue
Hair buildup

As soon as you notice that the drain for your bathroom sink has slowed down, stop using the sink and call a professional plumber.

Floor and Utility Drain Clogs

Other types of home clogs you may experience include:

Laundry room or basement drains: Clogs in these areas often point to issues in the sewer line, like cracks or blockages. Water backing up in the drain line indicates a need for immediate attention to prevent flooding and further damage.
Storm drains: Storm drains can be blocked by leaves and debris following heavy rain or other inclement weather. Residential properties might need professional drain cleaning services to manage overflow from storm drains and prevent water damage.
Water & sewer lines: Breakages, debris accumulation, and even tree root infiltration can lead to clogs in these lines. Addressing these issues requires professional intervention, as they affect the entire sewer system.

Wondering What's Down There?

Regular Rates

7 Days A Week

Request an Appointment

FREE ESTIMATES

For Heating, Air Conditioning, Water and Sewer Main Replacements, Water Heaters, Panel Upgrades, & EV Charging Stations

Cannot be combined with any other offer or discounts. Limited time offer. Coupon must be presented at the time of the initial call. Discounts/promotions cannot be applied.

View More Specials

$75.00 OFF

Any Plumbing Service

Minimum of $500.00 job to be applicable. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discounts. Limited time offer. Coupon must be presented at the time of the initial call. Discounts/promotions cannot be applied.

Expires: 09/30/2024

Providing Comfort to Families for over 120 Years

The plumber and electrician they sent were knowledgeable, professional, and equally as important, full of integrity. While they presented various options, they did not try to sell me something that I did not need. I would highly recommend them, the company has come a long way and I appreciate the service men they sent.

The technician helped me with my water heater. He researched the part that is needed, order it and I truly hope to see him again on the install soon. He was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful!!!

I have used John C. Flood for plumbing issues 3 times now. Each time, they're very responsive and reasonably priced. Each time, my technician has been Harry Hudson. He has done excellent work for me. Highly recommend the company and the technician!

I had an issue at my rental property over the weekend. John C Flood is a life saver! They sent someone out right away and he was knowledgeable, friendly and worked quickly for our guests. I will be using them again.

I cannot speak highly enough of John C. Flood and specifically Dale Jr. He has repaired my system twice in a moment of crisis and has gone above and beyond to make sure we are happy with the outcome. He takes the time to explain the situation and lays out all the options and processes so clearly so I feel comfortable with what he is doing. The company is excellent at sending people in a timely matter.

0 +

Google Reviews

4.8/5

★★★★★ 5/5

Why Hire a Professional
Plumber for Clogged Drains?

The experienced professionals at John C. Flood use only safe, non-invasive techniques to protect your pipes as drains are cleared. Those techniques include advanced drain camera inspection and hydro jetting, which are better for your home’s plumbing system. We focus on long-term solutions, not just temporary fixes.

We’re also focused on outstanding best customer service, which is why we provide:

24/7 emergency availability
Flat-rate pricing: no surge fees on weekends or holidays

Get Comfort Now!

https://www.johncflood.com/?se_action=eyJ0eXBlIjoic2Utc2hvdy1tb2RhbCJ9

FAQs About Clogged Drain Services

What should I do if my drain keeps clogging?

If your drain keeps clogging even after basic cleaning, it could indicate a deeper problem, such as a blockage farther down the line, pipe damage, or tree root intrusion. Avoid using harsh chemicals and contact a licensed plumber who can inspect the system with specialized tools, such as a video camera, to identify the root cause and recommend lasting repairs.

Can I use chemical drain cleaners?

Chemical drain cleaners may provide a temporary fix, but will damage your pipes over time. The harsh ingredients corrode metal pipes, soften PVC, and harm the environment. A safer and more effective approach is to use mechanical methods, such as plunging or a drain snake, or call a professional for hydro jetting or other safe cleaning solutions.

How do plumbers clear stubborn drain clogs?

Depending on the issue, they may use motorized drain augers to break up solid debris or hydro jetting equipment to flush out buildup with high-pressure water. For recurring or severe clogs, a video inspection helps them detect more serious problems such as damaged pipes, grease buildup, or invasive tree roots.

How can I prevent future drain blockages?

Preventing clogs starts with proper drain care. Avoid pouring grease, oils, or coffee grounds down the kitchen sink, and use strainers to catch hair and debris in bathroom drains. Schedule regular professional cleanings and inspections to detect early signs of buildup or pipe damage.