Drain Cleaning Services in Seattle, WA
over 4667 reviews
Are you looking for reputable Seattle drain cleaning services? Call 206.792.7495 today so we can send an expert to get your drains flowing freely again. Just explain the situation and we will set up an appointment to get the job done.
For more than 45 years, Gene Johnson Plumbing & Heating has been a trusted name serving homeowners throughout the Greater Seattle area, including neighborhoods such as West Seattle, Ballard, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, and beyond. Our team of licensed plumbers delivers reliable drain cleaning solutions, honest recommendations, and top-tier customer care backed by decades of experience. Whether you’re dealing with a minor clog, recurring backups, or a full sewer line issue, we’re committed to restoring your home’s plumbing quickly, safely, and professionally.
Our Drain Cleaning Services for Seattle, WA Homeowners
Drains are part of your home that you probably don’t think about until they are clogged or backed up, but then it’s the only thing on your mind. Nothing can disrupt your day like water or household waste backing up out of a drain, and it’s wise to keep a good drain cleaning service on speed dial just in case it happens to you. In most cases, getting someone out to your home as soon as possible will minimize any damage and get your plumbing system flowing freely again, just the way you want it.
Some of the drain cleaning services we provide include:
- Sinks
- Washer Piping
- Toilets
- Floor Drains
- Bathtub/Shower Drains
- Grease Traps
- Tree Root Removal
- Drain Vision Video Inspections
- Roof Drains & Leaders
- Sewer Pipe Replacement
- Field Pipe Replacement
- Water Pipe Replacement
- Smoke Testing
- Odor Detection
- Septic Piping
- Hydrojetting
$500 Off
Sewer Repair or Replacement
*Terms & Conditions apply – Contact service provider for complete details
Expert Solutions for Clogged Sewers and Exterior Drain Problems
Sometimes, drain problems are outside of your home in the side sewer system. The side sewer is the section of sewer line that removes waste from your house and carries it to the city’s sewer line in the street. As registered Side Sewer Contractors, we have the qualifications and experience to repair your exterior sewer lines, as well as to provide city sewer hook-ups.
Sewer issues can arise from aging pipes, construction activity, or tree roots breaking into the line in search of water. Exterior sewer pipes can be snaked, jetted, video inspected, repaired, or restored—often with minimal impact on your landscaping. Modern trenchless sewer repair, including pipe lining and pipe bursting, allows for efficient rehabilitation without major excavation. No matter the problem, Gene Johnson Plumbing & Heating provides honest guidance and expert drain and sewer services to get your system flowing again quickly and reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Clogged Drains?
Clogged drains are caused by a variety of factors, and the source often depends on which part of the home the blockage originates from. Bathroom drains commonly collect buildup from hygiene and grooming habits, while kitchen drains struggle with leftover food and grease. Outdoor conditions can also contribute, especially when tree roots search for moisture and invade underground pipes. To prevent these issues, it’s important for everyone in the household to be mindful of what goes down the drains.
Common causes of clogged drains include:
- Soap scum, hair, and dead skin from showers and sinks
- Toilet paper buildup and improper items flushed
- Feminine hygiene products entering the drain system
- Food scraps washed down kitchen sinks
- Cooking grease solidifying inside the pipes
- Tree roots infiltrating the outdoor sewer or drain lines
By understanding what leads to clogs, you can take simple steps to protect your plumbing system. If a blockage does occur, our Seattle plumbers can deal with it through professional drain cleaning service can restore proper flow quickly and safely.
Why Do My Drains Keep Clogging Even After I Clear Them?
Frequent clogs often indicate a deeper issue inside your plumbing system. While plungers may temporarily clear surface blockages, stubborn clogs usually come from long-term buildup, such as grease, soap residue, or mineral scale.
In the Greater Seattle area, older homes are especially prone to shifting or aging pipes, which can develop cracks that let in soil and debris. Tree roots may also infiltrate underground pipes in search of moisture, creating even more severe obstructions. A professional inspection can pinpoint the exact cause and determine whether hydrojetting, cleaning, or trenchless repair is needed. Addressing the issue promptly prevents recurring backups and helps protect your plumbing system.
What Are the Signs That I Need Professional Drain Cleaning Instead of DIY Methods?
Calling a professional is essential when drains remain blocked despite basic efforts. Persistent slow draining, foul odors, and bubbling fixtures often indicate deeper blockages that DIY tools can’t reach. Damage under the yard, such as root intrusion or pipe cracks, may also allow mud and debris into the system. A licensed plumber uses tools like drain cameras and hydrojetting to fully restore flow and prevent future issues.
Common signs you need professional help include:
- Drains that repeatedly clog
- Multiple fixtures backing up at once
- Gurgling or bubbling noises
- Strong sewer odors indoors
- Standing water near floor drains
- Water backing up into tubs or sinks
- Previous DIY attempts making the issue worse
How Does Hydrojetting Compare to Traditional Snaking?
Hydrojetting provides a more comprehensive clean than snaking by completely clearing the inside of the pipe, not just punching a hole through stubborn clogs. Snaking is useful for short-term fixes but cannot remove compacted grease, scale, or heavy debris.
Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water to scour pipe walls and restore full flow, making it ideal for homes in the Greater Seattle area, where older plumbing systems often accumulate buildup. While snaking treats the symptom, hydrojetting treats the cause, resulting in fewer recurring backups. It’s a durable, thorough solution for homeowners who want long-lasting results and improved drain performance.
What Drain Issues Happen Outside the Average Home, and How Are They Repaired?
Exterior sewer problems often arise when tree roots invade underground lines, leading to cracks, misaligned joints, and complete blockages. Soil movement or construction in your yard can also damage pipes. Once affected, these lines may fill with grease, sludge, and debris that disrupt flow.
Common exterior drain problems include:
- Root intrusion at pipe joints
- Collapsed or broken sewer sections
- Pipe bellies that trap debris
- Soil shifting causing misalignment
- Severe blockages from years of buildup
- Cracks allowing soil infiltration
- Old pipes deteriorating with age
Trenchless options like pipe lining or bursting can restore the system without damaging your landscaping.
Can Regular Drain Maintenance Really Prevent Major Plumbing Problems?
Absolutely. Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to avoid major repairs. Regular cleaning helps prevent stubborn clogs, grease buildup, and deeper blockages that can affect your entire plumbing system. Catching issues early, such as minor cracks or early-stage root growth in your yard, keeps them from becoming emergencies.
Benefits of scheduled drain maintenance include:
- Fewer unexpected backups
- Longer-lasting sewer and drain pipes
- Early detection of root intrusion
- Prevention of major blockages
- Reduced risk of indoor flooding
- Lower likelihood of pipe failure
- Improved overall system performance
Consistent maintenance protects your home and keeps your drains flowing reliably year-round.
Gene Johnson’s Drain Maintenance Advice for Seattle Homeowners
A simple and consistent drain maintenance program can help you avoid stressful plumbing emergencies, especially during inconvenient moments like when guests are visiting or multiple fixtures are running at once. Routine care keeps water flowing smoothly, reduces strain on your plumbing system, and prevents small issues from turning into expensive repairs.
A proper drain maintenance program should include:
- Regularly flushing drains with hot water to reduce buildup
- Avoiding grease, oil, and food scraps in kitchen sinks
- Using drain screens to catch hair and debris
- Scheduling professional drain cleaning as needed
- Inspecting slow drains before they become full blockages
- Keeping outdoor drains and gutters free of leaves and debris
These preventative steps should help keep your plumbing performing at its best. However, if your drains still fail you after proper maintenance, Gene Johnson’s plumbers are always just a call away to save the day!
Contact Gene Johnson Today for Trusted Drain Cleaning Services in the Greater Seattle Area
When your drains or sewer lines are giving you trouble, you need a team you can trust to respond quickly and deliver lasting results. Gene Johnson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical provides comprehensive drain cleaning, sewer inspection, and sewer repair services for homeowners across the Greater Seattle area. From clearing stubborn blockages to addressing damaged sewer lines with trenchless repair options, our licensed professionals have the tools and expertise to restore proper flow and protect your home from future plumbing issues.
Own a commercial or industrial building? We also offer commercial plumbing services!
If there are drains in your home that are clogged and causing trouble, call Gene Johnson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical today at 206.792.7495 in Seattle, WA, and the surrounding area for professional residential and commercial drain cleaning services.
QUALITY SERVICE
Within Your Budget
The best plumbing, cooling, heating, and electrical services shouldn’t have to break the bank. That’s why we are happy to provide our customers with opportunities to save on their next service with us. Our current online deals are updated periodically, so there is something for everyone, whether you are a first-time customer or a long-time loyalist.
Here are some benefits of trusting Gene Johnson with your HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical needs.
- Best value service in Seattle
- Always on-time arrival
- No mess left after a job
- Friendly team that truly cares about your safety and comfort
- Fixed right guarantee
- Upfront pricing
- Follow up calls to ensure your peace of mind
- Range of service options- no ultimatums!
Total reviews: 4667 | Average rating: 4.8
Ronda Barnes
Lacey Noel
Had Justen come out for a faucet replacement. He was great and quick. The only thing is Gene Johnsons prices seem to be higher and higher. It was a surprise to me that when they replaced a toliet with one I bought, to take out the old and install a new one was $1016. That did not include the new hose and valve. Those little things have to be replaced too and that doesn’t bother me as much. But high to just install a Glacier Bay toliet with nothing fancy.
Gary and Karen Cone
Particularly liked our installer, Matthew who went above and beyond and beyond.
Stephanie McBee
Mark Ochoa worked hard, was knowledgeable, and stuck with a very difficult job. We are very satisfied!
Conney Vernall
Tyler’s team, Greg & Rory were amazing! Everything was done efficiently, they even backfilled the holes with fresh soil, put seeds on top, poured concrete in the garage and cleaned up their mess, this is way more than what I asked for. Nothing but praise from me, thank you again!
Gloria Leach
Excellent service and workmanship as always. Won’t use any other company for plumbing and electrical work!
Emma Brillhart
Chandler Price came out to fix a leaking pipe under the sink. He was super quick and very communicative. Would absolutely work with him again in the future!
cozys place
Needed to replace bathtub faucet from leaking. It was looking like I would need to replace the surround on my tub because of old style fixtures and molding on the surround. The guy had the same type fixtures on truck, which normally would take a couple of weeks to get in, as I was also told by another company. Had job done that day. The guys did a fantastic job. They explained everything they were doing and even saved me some money. I would highly recommend.
Daryl Imburgia
Steven and Joe did a great job for us today. Didn’t try and over charge us. Gave us quotes for all options. And then found out the problem was an easy fix and took care of it quickly.
VeenaM Arani
Excellent work by Andrew! He is very friendly and accommodating. Great job. Would recommend to others.
Lynnda Laurie
I wanted to invest in a tankless hot water heater. My current heater was still working, but I wanted the replacement done before it was an emergency. Colby gave me a bid that was significantly lower than a competitor. He and Hugo got the job done with such professionalism. They were both so pleasant and professional. I would hire them again in a heartbeat!
Kate Burdick
Had an external shower leak/hose and Gene J. sent someone out in just a few hrs. Rene Garcia was awesome, clear on (3) options (and prices) and got it working. Even drove up to Home Depot quickly to get the part. Thank you for excellent customer service!
Ron N
2/11/26: Mark O. came out and did a thorough review of our plumbing system. The water heater was drained per the maintenance program. He also gave us pricing estimates on updating various components not up to the current standards. Mark is knowledgeable and personable — a pleasure to work with.
Bernie Kinimaka
Justin took care of our plumbing needs. Professional, clearly offered other service options as well. Thank you.
Alex Harms
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five-Star Review for Gene Johnson Plumbing
I cannot say enough good things about Mike K. Mike K spent hours here working extremely hard and never once gave up. He was literally sweating and did everything in his power to resolve a very difficult toilet clog. I have honestly never met a more honest, hardworking plumber than Mike K.
What stood out most was that he was determined to get the job taken care of today for Mike K — it was about doing the right thing. He thoroughly explained all the options, called his supervisors when he had questions, and approached everything with professionalism, integrity, and care. Mike K truly went above and beyond.
Because of Mike K’s incredible service, I will be using Gene Johnson Plumbing for the rest of my life. I will also be referring Gene Johnson to all of my friends, family, and colleagues without hesitation. This level of service is rare.
Mike K is not only an outstanding plumber, but a genuinely great person and an absolute asset to whatever team he is working on. He is the kind of professional you call and immediately know you are in good hands.
Thank you so much, Mike K, and thank you Gene Johnson Plumbing for employing such an exceptional individual. I cannot recommend you highly enough.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lyle Jensen
Great experience. Joseph was very professional and clearly an expert. He patiently answered all of my questions in depth and provided great insights.
Don Ripley
Noah visited our house for an emergency issue when our water heater failed and was severely leaking. Fortunately we caught before much damage was done. He had a prompt response on a Friday, clearly explained all our options, verified availability of all the necessary parts, removed and replaced everything same day… was amazing and greatly appreciated. He was very friendly and extremely professional throughout the entire process. Highly recommend!
Kelly Renner
Gene Johnson Plumbing has consistently demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and a genuine care for their craft and customers. Living in a home built in the early 1900s, I understand the importance of having a trustworthy plumber.
A special shoutout goes to the plumbers who have provided services in my home over the past six months to rectify previous plumbers’ mistakes.
Most recently, Andrew Bell Morgan stood out. He explained each step clearly, presented multiple options to solve the issue, considering cost, aesthetics, and potential savings. He ensured I understood the pros and cons of each option.
Hugo Lira Hernandez deserves another mention. He went above and beyond to provide clear access to my water shut-off valves, which were previously obstructed by various tubes and wires. It only took him a few minutes to untangle and secure the valves with a metal zip tie or two. This attention to detail, even though it took an extra minute, reflects his commitment to making things better for the future.
Cj Swan
Sean was amazing with taylor plumping today.! He made sure all my concerns were taken care of. He was polite, professional and personable. So glad I work with Taylor heating and plumbing
J B
So happy I called these guys! Already did another review under my other email address but it’s worth repeating.
I had an estimate from a different company but ended up cancelling after being jerked around. Called BelRed and was able to set up three different appointments, todays being to look at and repair a leaky pipe. Something the other guys couldn’t find btw.
Anyway – Andrew came out, introduced himself, figured out where the leak was and quickly provided me an estimate as well as a timeframe for completion.
Work was done quickly, quietly and on time. Andrew had shown me pictures and videos of the before and also of the after and made sure to test the leak was fixed (and explained what happened and why).
It’s never easy spending money unexpectedly but helps when the company and the person who comes out to do the work gives a great first impression.