24/7 Expert Drain Cleaning in Memphis, TN
Call Us Now for Immediate Drain Clearing Assistance!
At Smith's Plumbing, Heating & Air, our Memphis team provides exceptional drain services for individuals, families, and businesses throughout our community. We understand how inconvenient it is to deal with slow or clogged drains, and we know how to repair or replace your stubborn drains quickly and effectively.
If left untreated, a clogged drain can lead to further damage and bigger problems. Not to mention, attempting to fix the problem yourself with a plunger or chemical products can lead to damage of your pipes or fixtures.
Drain Repair & Replacement Services in Memphis
Drain lines in Memphis often face challenges from shifting clay soil, seasonal flooding, and tree roots invading pipes. We address these risks by carefully inspecting drains and recommending repairs or replacements only if other solutions won’t resolve the problem.
- Our team uses diagnostic methods like video camera inspections to pinpoint cracks, clogs, or crushed sections.
- When repairs are possible, we focus on quick, precise solutions that minimize hassle and disruption for your household.
- If a drain line must be replaced, our years of experience with local plumbing codes and neighborhood requirements come into play.
We prioritize your safety and long-term value, delivering straightforward communication, upfront pricing, and the service of trained, licensed drain cleaning pros trusted by Memphis families since 2010.
Call (901) 290-1110 or reach out to us online to schedule a drain clog removal service in Memphis, TN.
WHAT MAKES US THE WISE CHOICE?
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We have over 15 years in business serving the community.
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We offer emergency appointments and are available 24/7.
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We provide upfront pricing, so you know what you will pay.
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We're locally owned and stay very involved in our community.
Top Reasons Drains Get Clogged
Clogged drains are one of the most common types of plumbing issues, though they can quickly escalate into major problems if they are not addressed promptly. From slow water drainage to corrosion, flooding, or even sewage backup, a clogged kitchen or bathroom drain can lead to a myriad of problems and costly repairs. Fortunately, many drain clogs can be prevented by recognizing their causes.
Most common household drain clogs are caused by:
- Hair
- Soap
- Food waste
- Tree roots
- Small objects
- Toilet paper
- Cooking grease
“I've used Smith's Plumbing, Heating & Air in the past, and I've never been disappointed! I couldn't get the drain unclogged, but Smith did. I'm so happy!” - Kimberly H.
Effective Tips to Avoid Drain Blockages
Homeowners face many challenges in the upkeep of the home, and clogged drains present one of the largest nuisances. Most of us like easy and quick solutions, so it can be tempting to run to the store and purchase special drain unclogging solutions like chemical cleaners. These have been known to cause more problems for drains in the long run. They may wear out the inner surface of the pipes, and over time, lead to leaks and other wear and tear.
Follow these tips to keep your drains clear:
- Even if you have a garbage disposal, many of us resist tossing trash such as orange peels, banana peels, eggshells, potato skins, and coffee grounds.
- Run cold water while the garbage disposal runs so that the waste has a chance to run fully through the system.
- Avoid pouring oil or grease down the drain, as this can solidify and get stuck to the pipes.
- Consider purchasing screens to catch food, hair, and other waste.
- You should never flush large amounts of paper down the toilet, particularly feminine products, as they can clog the toilet and even the entire sewer system.
- Avoid flushing non-flushable items down the toilet.
- Make it a regular habit to clear out the drains of hair and other particles that may have built up in the pipes. Regularly clean your drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
- Schedule an appointment with a licensed professional to periodically clean out the drains from the root. We can snake the main line to get to the source, saving you on costly repairs later on.
- Run hot water down the drain regularly to help clear buildup.
By following these preventative maintenance tips, you can help keep your drains clear and avoid the need for costly repairs. If you do encounter a stubborn clog, don't hesitate to contact our expert plumbers for fast and reliable drain cleaning services in Memphis, TN.
Call (901) 290-1110 or contact us online for drain cleaning in Memphis!
How Drain Installation Works in Memphis Homes
Installing a new drain line in Memphis requires attention to local standards, home construction, and regional geography. Homes often sit on clay soil, which expands and contracts in changing weather. Choosing drain materials and installation methods that suit these conditions makes a real difference.
- Before we start, we assess your property and map out the best route for new drain lines, following all city plumbing code requirements for Memphis-area residences.
- Our plumbers select PVC, cast iron, or other materials that stand up to shifting soil and root pressure.
A professional drain installation supports consistent drainage and prevents premature failures, saving you from stressful repairs. We keep you informed at every step, providing the timeline and your best options so you stay in control from start to finish.
What to Know About Rooter Services & Clearing Main Lines
Rooter services go beyond simple unclogging and target tough blockages in main drain lines, often from tree roots and heavy buildup. In Memphis, where many neighborhoods feature older homes and mature trees, root invasion can become a recurring risk. We use powerful rooter equipment and, when needed, water jetting to reach deep clogs and remove intrusive roots. Clearing drains at the main line protects your plumbing system from backups and limits the risk of sewage leaks around your home. Once the blockage clears, our team provides ongoing care suggestions suited to your property’s location and age.
“We woke up to a stopped-up drain and an inch of water in our basement. Called Smith's Plumbing, Heating & Air and the tech called us within 10 minutes to say that he was on his way. They were here within the hour and assessed and corrected the problem. Brandon D was knowledgeable and friendly, and felt like the prices were fair. Highly recommend!!” - Brandon C.
Why Choose Our Memphis Drain Cleaning Experts
We know you want trustworthy people working in your home. When you hire us, we arrive with a positive attitude. Our team treats every home and apartment with respect and works efficiently so you feel confident in our service. Prompt arrivals, professional work, and customer satisfaction guide every drain service job we complete in the Memphis area.
Our company has served Memphis and surrounding cities for over a decade. We have earned an excellent community reputation, maintain a Better Business Bureau A+ Rating, and are proud members of both the Bartlett Chamber of Commerce and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce.
Struggling with a clogged drain? Call (901) 290-1110 or contact us online for expert drain cleaning in Memphis today!
Learn More About Drain Maintenance:
5-Star Service That Speaks for Itself Hear From Smitty's Fans
Smith’s has earned over 3,000 5-star reviews because we treat every home like our own.
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“It started with Brock, a proficient, patient, helpful, thorough, and courteous representative of Smith’s Plumbing who arrived at scheduled time.”- Magda F.
I am an extremely pleased customer!
"It started with Brock, a proficient, patient, helpful, thorough, and courteous representative of Smith’s Plumbing who arrived at scheduled time. With 3 bids on hand, after Brock responded to my questions on different brands of tankless, position of gas and water pipes, along with a competitive price, It was an EASY decision to have Smith’s Plumbing replacing my 2 tanks water heater with a Rinnai RSC 199 tankless! Respectful, pleasant, and skillful install crew, Cody and Eli along with roofer Scott, took great care to protect wood floor and extra careful with hauling equipment up and down the stairs. The tankless water heater was up and running prior to 5PM on the same day. Rest assured it was my first and surely not my last experience with Smith’s Plumbing as I am an extremely pleased customer!"- Magda F.![]()
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“Best customer service I have ever received!”- Lynn K.
I can highly recommend Smith’s plumbing!
"I can highly recommend Smith’s plumbing! Will Newman came and helped us uncover a leak that was coming from under our refrigerator. Will took the time to make a video report for our insurance adjuster and also made a call to a water mitigation company that showed up the next morning. Best customer service I have ever received!"- Lynn K.![]()
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“Great job! The crew was friendly and courteous, which is a plus for me, great customer service goes a long way.”- Former Client
They did everything we discussed at an affordable price!
"Great job! The crew was friendly and courteous, which is a plus for me, great customer service goes a long way. I was well informed of the process for the project. They did everything we discussed at an affordable price. I appreciate how they refilled my yard back. It will be easier to get my lawn back in shape and summer ready."- Former Client![]()
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“They made my situation priority and got me taken care of in no time.”- Raven W.
Exceptional service from the front desk to the technician!
"Exceptional service from the front desk to the technician! They made my situation priority and got me taken care of in no time. My technician was Mr. Brock and up front and honest from the jump. Very knowledgeable, clean, respectful and efficient. I would recommend Smith's Plumbing Services to anyone I know! Not to mention, affordable!"- Raven W.![]()
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“I would recommend to anyone their services, they were upfront on costs and their estimates.”- Reggie W.
Their technicians and management were very professional and helpful.
"Smith Plumbing was awesome and went beyond normal procedures to provide us the support we needed to stop a main line water leak at our home. Their technicians and management were very professional and helpful. I would recommend to anyone their services, they were upfront on costs and their estimates. My wife and I appreciate their service and won't hesitate to call again on any plumbing issue we or friend and family incur."- Reggie W.![]()
Drain Cleaning FAQs in Memphis
Why Does My Kitchen Drain Clog More During Certain Seasons?
Memphis’ climate plays a bigger role in your kitchen drains than most homeowners realize.
- Summer: During the hot, humid summers, grease, oils, and food particles move more easily through drain pipes—but that same heat and humidity can accelerate bacterial growth, which contributes to buildup along pipe walls. At the same time, food waste—especially from garbage disposals—can break down and ferment faster in the heat, expanding and creating a thick “sludge” that narrows your drain pipes. Add in increased cooking (cookouts, gatherings), and your drain sees heavier use.
- Winter: Memphis' sudden cold snaps or “flash freezes” are the main culprit. Fat, oil, and grease (FOG) that might normally pass through your drains will solidify much faster as temperatures drop. Even if it's 30°F, the ground—and your drain pipes—can stay cold for days. When that happens, liquid flow turns into solid deposits (sometimes referred to as “fatbergs”), which trap food particles and debris as they pass by. Even small amounts of grease can harden and stick, gradually restricting water flow.
Memphis homeowners deal with a year-round cycle—summer buildup and winter solidification—both of which contribute to recurring kitchen drain clogs.
How Do Memphis' Aging Pipes Impact My Drains?
Memphis is a historic city, and many homes in neighborhoods like Midtown, Cooper-Young, Central Gardens, or East Memphis still utilize cast iron or clay piping installed 50 to 80 years ago.
As these drain pipes age, they develop "scale"—a rough, rusted interior surface. Unlike modern PVC, which is smooth, aged pipes act like Velcro, catching hair, soap scum, and food particles. Over time, this corrosion narrows the pipe's diameter (channeling), making blockages in your drain lines much more frequent.
A professional inspection can determine whether your issue is a simple blockage or a symptom of pipe deterioration.
Can Memphis' Heavy Rainfall Impact My Drains?
Absolutely. Memphis receives significant rainfall throughout the year, and sudden storms can overwhelm drainage systems—especially in low-lying areas near the Mississippi River.
Another key local factor is Shelby County’s expansive clay soil, which absorbs water, swells, and shifts during heavy rain. Over time, this ground movement can cause underground drain pipes to sag or “belly”, creating low spots where debris collects and clogs form.
Heavy rain can affect your drains by:
- Increasing pressure on sewer lines, slowing drainage from your home
- Causing backups if municipal systems are overloaded
- Allowing debris and sediment to enter older or compromised drain pipes
- Raising groundwater levels, which can infiltrate cracked drain pipes
Homes with older connections or partial blockages are particularly vulnerable during storms. If your drains gurgle or slow down after heavy rain, it may indicate a larger issue with your main line and the need for a professional drain technician in Memphis.
Is Biofilm Worse in Memphis Drains and What Can It Cause?
Yes, biofilm can be particularly stubborn here in Memphis due to our area's warm, humid climate, which creates the perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive inside your drains.
Biofilm is a colony of bacteria that creates a slimy, glue-like protective layer inside your drains. In Memphis’s high humidity, these colonies thrive on soap scum and organic residue that collect in kitchen and bathroom sinks. Over time, this buildup doesn’t just slow down your drainage—it also causes the persistent musty odors common in many homes. If left untreated, it can harbor pathogens and contribute to the accelerated corrosion of metal fixtures.
If you’ve noticed a musty or sewage-like smell from your sink, biofilm is often the hidden cause—not just a simple clog.
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