Main Drain Clog
If flushing a toilet makes water rise in the tub or floor drain, the main drain is likely clogged. Snaking the main line typically costs $150–$500; hydro jetting the main sewer line costs about $600–$1,500 and clears the pipe more thoroughly.
Last reviewed September 2026
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Are several drains slow at once?
If multiple fixtures drain slowly, especially on the lowest floor, the clog is in the shared main drain.
Signs it's this problem
- Water comes up in the tub or shower when the toilet is flushed
- The basement floor drain backs up when the washer drains
- Every drain in the house is slow
- Gurgling from drains and toilets
Why it happens
Grease, wipes, hair and roots build up in the main drain that all fixtures share. When it narrows enough, water from one fixture backs up into the lowest drains in the house.
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Main Drain Clog cost
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Snake the main line | $150–$500 |
| Hydro jet the main sewer line | $600–$1,500 |
| Residential hydro jetting (typical) | $350–$800 |
Got a quote? Check if it's fair
Typical professional price for this job: $150–$1,500
Common questions
Snaking or hydro jetting: which is better?
Snaking punches a hole through the clog and is cheaper. Hydro jetting scours the whole pipe wall, lasting longer for recurring grease or root problems, but it costs more and the pipe should be in good condition.
Can chemical drain cleaners clear a main drain?
Not reliably. They rarely reach a main-line clog and can damage older pipes. Mechanical clearing is the safer fix.