How often should I have my drains professionally cleaned?

From the experts at Rapid Rooter Plumbing

If you’re a homeowner in the Phoenix metro area—from Mesa to Glendale, Chandler to Cave Creek—you already know how tough the desert can be on your plumbing. But one of the most preventable and overlooked issues in family homes across the Valley? Backups caused by clogged or slow-moving drains.

Too many homeowners wait until they have a whole-home backup to investigate their sewer condition. By then, the fix often isn’t cheap—or quick.

Experts recommend scheduling a professional drain cleaning at least once a year to remove buildup and prevent clogs. For households with higher usage or older plumbing systems, more frequent cleanings may be necessary. In addition to annual professional services, monthly maintenance using safe, non-chemical methods can help keep your drains clear.

Neglecting regular drain maintenance can lead to unpleasant odors, slow drainage, and even sewage backups. By staying proactive with professional cleanings and routine upkeep, you can ensure the efficiency and reliability of your home’s plumbing system.

So, How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?

For most single-family homes in Phoenix, we recommend professional drain cleaning every 12 to 18 months. Why?

Because build-up doesn’t happen overnight. Grease, soap scum, mineral deposits, and waste gradually line your pipes, especially if you have older plumbing, use garbage disposals frequently, or have lots of family members under one roof.

If you have a history of backups or live in a house over 30 years old, the frequency should increase to once a year, minimum.

Early Cleanings Catch Bigger Problems

Routine cleanings aren’t just about removing gunk. They’re your best shot at spotting early-stage root intrusion, shifting pipe joints, or line bellies before they become thousand-dollar repairs.

We’ve seen it too many times: a homeowner calls after a backup affects every toilet and tub in the house. By then, what could have been a $650 jetting job has turned into a $3,500 trenchless repair.

Signs It’s Time (Even If It Hasn’t Been a Year)

Don’t wait for disaster. Schedule a cleaning or inspection if you notice:

Gurgling drains or bubbling toilets
Water backing up in the tub when using the washing machine
Foul odors from sinks or drains
Slower drainage than usual

One overlooked signal? Recurring clogs in the same location. That’s often a sign of deeper issues.

What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?

Our team uses high-pressure jetting (not chemicals!) to fully clear your lines of build-up, grease, and small intrusions. For more complex jobs, we may pair it with a camera inspection—and if you’re a member, that inspection is completely free.

The result: smoother drains, less stress on your system, and a better chance of catching root damage before it wrecks your sewer.

Why It’s Not a DIY Fix

Online videos might show you how to use a store-bought snake or drain cleaner, but those quick fixes don’t go far enough and can even damage your pipes. In fact, chemical cleaners can corrode older piping and leave you worse off.

We stick to methods that are safe, proven, and long-term.

Don’t Just Clean—Protect Your Entire System

For $9.99/month, the Rapid Rooter Membership gives Valley homeowners:

Bi-annual drain cleanings
Annual full-system plumbing inspections
Free camera inspections ($375 value)
15% off repairs and 10% off major installs
24/7 emergency access with no weekend or holiday fees
Priority scheduling year-round

Even better? If you sign up this month, your first inspection is on us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is annual professional drain cleaning necessary if I don’t have any issues?

A: Yes, even without noticeable problems, annual cleanings prevent buildup and detect potential issues early, saving you from future costly repairs.

Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners for maintenance?

A: It’s best to avoid chemical cleaners as they can corrode pipes over time. Opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar for routine maintenance.

Q: How do I know if my drains need immediate professional attention?

A: Signs include persistent slow drainage, recurring clogs, foul odors, or gurgling sounds. If you notice any of these, contact a professional plumber promptly.

Bottom Line: Maintenance is Cheaper Than Repair

If you’re a family managing school schedules, work, and weekend chaos, it’s tempting to put off drain cleaning. But in Phoenix homes, especially older ones, plumbing issues don’t wait for convenience. They happen fast, and usually all at once.

Stay ahead of the curve. Schedule your professional drain cleaning today, or sign up for the Rapid Rooter Membership and get your free inspection while the offer lasts.

Let our team help you prevent the mess—and protect your home the smart way.

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