Stop using it
Each use adds more water behind the clog. If it is a toilet, close the valve behind it.
Drain completely clogged, backing up or overflowing?
A drain that will not empty, gurgles or backs up can overflow and spread dirty water. Stop using it, do not pour more chemicals in, then call 833-877-1717. RepairNowUSA connects the request. An independent plumber or drain service does the work.
Am I in the right place?Yes for a sink, tub, shower, floor drain or toilet that will not drain or keeps backing up.
Is this urgent?Urgent if it is overflowing, if several drains back up at once, or if sewage is coming up. That points to the main sewer line.
What do I do next?Stop using that drain, then call 833-877-1717 with the ZIP code and which drains are affected.
Several drains at once, or sewage in a tub or floor drain: sewage backup. Business kitchens and restrooms: commercial drain cleaning.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 13, 2026 · Review standards
Before the plumber arrives
Skip the chemicals
Chemical drain openers can damage pipes, splash and burn skin, and make it dangerous for the plumber to work on the drain.
Try a plunger, once
A cup plunger on a sink or tub can clear a simple clog. If it does not, stop.
One drain or the whole building?
If water comes up in a tub when a toilet is flushed, or a floor drain backs up, the blockage is likely in the main line. Stop all water use in the building so sewage does not overflow, and say so when you call.
Common clogs
Kitchen sink
Grease and food buildup. Garbage disposals can add to it. See garbage disposal plumbing.
Bathroom sink, tub and shower
Hair and soap buildup in the trap or drain line.
Toilet
Wipes, paper towels or objects. See toilet repair.
Main line
Several drains slow at once. See main sewer line clog.
What to have ready when you call
- Property ZIP code, home or business
- Which drains are clogged
- Whether other drains back up when one is used
- Whether you used chemicals (tell the plumber)
- Whether there is a basement or floor drain
- Any known cleanout location
What happens when you call RepairNowUSA
- Describe what is happening in plain words and give the property ZIP code. You do not need to know which trade to ask for.
- RepairNowUSA checks for a participating independent provider who handles drain clearing in that area.
- If one is available, you are connected. The provider confirms timing, access, scope and price with you before any work.
- The provider, not RepairNowUSA, diagnoses and performs the repair.
RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service. Provider availability and response times vary by location, time and demand, and are not guaranteed. Before you approve work, ask what was found, the price, the timing and what is not included.
Call 833-877-1717Clogged drain questions
Is a clogged drain an emergency?
One slow drain usually is not. An overflowing drain, several drains backing up, or sewage coming up is urgent.
Should I use a chemical drain cleaner?
It is better not to. They can damage pipes and make the drain hazardous for the plumber. Tell the plumber if you already used one.
Can I call about a clogged drain at night?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
What is hydro jetting?
High-pressure water that scours grease and roots from drain and sewer lines. See hydro jetting.
Why does my drain keep clogging?
Repeated clogs can mean buildup further down the line, roots, or a sagging pipe. A camera inspection can show the cause.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.