How Much Does a Plumbing Snake Cost?

Clogged drains are one of the most frustrating household issues, and when plungers fail, a plumbing snake (also known as a drain auger) is the next best solution. Whether you’re tackling a slow sink drain, a stubborn bathtub clog, or a blocked toilet, a plumbing snake can clear the obstruction effectively.

But how much does a plumbing snake cost? The price can vary widely from $10 for a basic manual hand snake to $600 or more for professional-grade electric models. The cost depends on several factors like the snake’s size, material, type, and brand.

In this article, we’ll break down the different types of plumbing snakes, what affects their pricing, rental versus purchase options, and how much professionals charge if you prefer to leave the job to an expert. By the end, you’ll know exactly which option fits your needs and budget.

What Is a Plumbing Snake?

A plumbing snake (or drain auger) is a flexible, coiled metal cable used to clear clogs in household drains. It’s designed to reach deep into pipes, break up blockages, and remove debris that plungers can’t dislodge.

Plumbing snakes come in various lengths and sizes, depending on the type of drain they’re used for. For example, a short, handheld snake works well for sinks and tubs, while a long, motorized snake is better suited for main sewer lines.

These tools are essential for dealing with:

Hair and soap buildup in bathroom drains
Grease or food blockages in kitchen sinks
Roots or heavy debris in main sewer lines

In short, a plumbing snake is an indispensable tool for homeowners who want to handle minor clogs themselves and avoid expensive emergency plumbing calls.

How a Plumbing Snake Works

Using a plumbing snake involves inserting the coiled cable into the drain until it reaches the clog. Once contact is made, you rotate the handle or activate the motor, which twists the coil to either break apart or hook onto the obstruction. You then pull it back out, removing the debris.

Here’s a quick step-by-step overview:

Insert the snake into the drain slowly to avoid damaging the pipe.
Feed it through until you feel resistance this is the clog.
Rotate or power the cable to dislodge the material.
Withdraw the snake, pulling debris with it.
Flush with hot water to ensure the line is clear.

Compared to plungers, plumbing snakes can reach deeper into the plumbing system and tackle tougher clogs. On the other hand, hydro jetting (a professional service) uses high-pressure water to clean pipes completely but comes at a much higher cost.

Types of Plumbing Snakes and Their Costs

Not all plumbing snakes are the same each type serves a specific purpose and price range. Below are the most common kinds you’ll encounter, along with their average costs.

Manual Hand Augers

These are simple, crank-operated snakes designed for minor clogs in sinks and tubs. They usually feature a 15–25 foot cable and are ideal for small pipes.

Cost: $10–$35
Best for: Kitchen sinks, bathtubs, bathroom drains
Pros: Affordable, easy to use, requires no power
Cons: Limited reach and manual effort required

Power (Motorized) Drain Snakes

These snakes use an electric or battery-powered motor to spin the cable, making it easier to break through tough clogs or navigate long drains. They’re great for deep or stubborn blockages.

Cost: $100–$600+
Best for: Main lines, large drains, frequent use
Pros: Powerful and efficient
Cons: Heavier, pricier, and requires careful handling

Toilet Augers (Closet Augers)

Specifically designed for toilets, these snakes have a short, curved end to avoid scratching porcelain. They typically extend 3–6 feet and can handle typical toilet blockages like tissue or solid waste.

Cost: $25–$75
Best for: Toilets and urinals
Pros: Compact and easy to maneuver
Cons: Limited to toilet use only

Mini or Handheld Drain Snakes

These are smaller and more flexible versions of manual augers, perfect for bathroom sinks, shower drains, and hair clogs.

Cost: $8–$25
Best for: Small drains and light clogs
Pros: Lightweight and budget-friendly
Cons: Not suitable for large or deep blockages

Professional-Grade and Commercial Snakes

These heavy-duty snakes are used by plumbers and can clear main sewer lines up to 100 feet long. Many models feature automatic cable feed and retrieval.

Cost: $400–$1,000 (purchase) or $40–$80 per day (rental)
Best for: Major blockages or commercial properties
Pros: High power and efficiency
Cons: Expensive and requires experience to operate safely

Each of these tools has its own niche, so understanding your specific needs is key to choosing the right one.

Factors That Affect Plumbing Snake Costs

The price of a plumbing snake depends on several important variables. Knowing these can help you find a balance between budget and performance.

1. Size and Length of the Snake

The longer and thicker the cable, the more expensive the snake. A short 15-foot hand auger may cost $15, while a 100-foot motorized model could exceed $600.

Small drains (under 2”): 15–25 ft. snake
Main sewer lines (3”–6”): 50–100 ft. snake

2. Power Type (Manual vs. Electric)

Manual snakes are cheaper but require physical effort and time. Electric versions are faster and more powerful, but they come with a higher price tag and maintenance cost.

3. Material Quality and Brand

Durable materials like stainless steel cables and reinforced drums increase cost but extend lifespan. Reputable brands such as RIDGID, Cobra, and Milwaukee tend to cost more but are known for reliability and professional-grade quality.

4. Purchase vs. Rental Costs

If you only need a plumbing snake occasionally, renting one might be smarter. Rental costs range from $20 to $80 per day, depending on size and power. However, if you deal with frequent clogs, buying a snake for $40–$100 is more economical long term.

Average Cost to Buy a Plumbing Snake

The cost of a plumbing snake depends heavily on the type of tool, its power source, and the intended use. Below is an overview of average price ranges to give you a clear idea of what to expect when shopping for one.

National Price Ranges (U.S.)

Type of Plumbing Snake	Typical Length	Average Cost (Purchase)
Handheld / Mini Drain Snake	10–15 feet	$8–$25
Manual Hand Auger	15–25 feet	$10–$40
Toilet Auger (Closet Auger)	3–6 feet	$25–$75
Power Drain Snake (Electric)	25–75 feet	$100–$600
Professional-Grade / Heavy-Duty Snake	75–100 feet	$400–$1,000+
Plumbing Snake Rental	Varies	$20–$80 per day

Cost by Use Case

Kitchen Sinks: Light to moderate clogs can be cleared with a manual or small electric snake ($10–$100).
Bathroom Drains: Handheld snakes ($8–$25) or toilet augers ($25–$75) are typically sufficient.
Main Sewer Lines: Require a long, motorized snake—either purchased ($400–$900) or rented ($40–$80/day).

For most homeowners, a mid-range manual auger ($30–$50) or an entry-level power snake ($100–$150) strikes the perfect balance between cost and functionality.

Cost to Hire a Plumber for Drain Snaking

Not everyone wants to tackle a clogged drain on their own and that’s perfectly fine. Hiring a professional plumber ensures the clog is removed efficiently and safely. But how much does it cost?

The average cost to have a plumber snake a drain ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the location of the clog and its severity. For simple jobs, you might pay as little as $100, while main sewer line cleaning can cost $400–$600 or more.

Hourly vs. Flat Rates

Some plumbers charge hourly rates ($75–$150 per hour), while others offer flat-rate pricing for common drain services. Flat rates are typically used for routine sink or tub drain snaking, while complex or main line jobs often revert to hourly billing.

Price by Drain Type or Clog Severity

Drain Type	Average Cost Range
Bathroom Sink / Tub	$100–$175
Kitchen Sink	$125–$250
Toilet / Floor Drain	$150–$275
Main Sewer Line	$300–$600+

For tough blockages caused by roots or solid debris, plumbers may use hydro jetting, which costs $400–$800 but provides a much deeper clean than snaking.

Hiring a professional might seem pricey at first, but it offers valuable benefits—accurate diagnosis, prevention of pipe damage, and long-term peace of mind.

DIY vs. Professional Drain Cleaning

When a clog strikes, you’re faced with two options: grab a plumbing snake yourself or call a professional plumber. Each choice comes with its own pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of DIY Snaking

Pros:

Cost Savings: You can save $100–$300 by handling it yourself.
Convenience: Immediate action—no waiting for a plumber’s schedule.
Satisfaction: Many homeowners find DIY repairs rewarding.

Cons:

Limited Reach: Hand snakes may not clear deep or severe clogs.
Risk of Damage: Using the wrong snake or forcing it too hard can scratch fixtures or crack pipes.
No Guarantee: If the clog reoccurs, you may need to call a plumber anyway.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional

Professional plumbers bring expertise, high-powered equipment, and diagnostics tools that go beyond what a DIYer can do.

They use motorized augers and camera inspections to pinpoint the blockage.
They ensure your pipes remain intact and functioning properly.
Many offer warranties or guarantees for their work.

While professional snaking costs more upfront, it often prevents bigger, more expensive plumbing problems down the road especially if the clog is deep in your sewer line or caused by tree roots.

Tips for Choosing the Right Plumbing Snake

Before purchasing or renting a plumbing snake, it’s important to select one that suits your specific needs. The wrong size or type can make the job harder or even damage your plumbing.

Match the Tool to the Drain Size

Bathroom Sinks and Showers: Use a mini drain snake (¼-inch cable).
Kitchen Sinks and Tubs: Opt for a medium manual auger (⅜-inch cable).
Main Sewer Lines: Choose a heavy-duty or electric snake (½-inch cable or larger).

Using a too-thick cable in a small pipe can cause scratches or get stuck, while a thin cable won’t handle heavy clogs effectively.

Consider Motor Strength and Cable Type

Manual models work best for light to medium blockages.
Electric or battery-powered models are ideal for large or recurring clogs.
Auto-feed cables save effort and reduce tangling during operation.

Also, check the flexibility of the cable too stiff, and it won’t navigate curves; too soft, and it won’t break through solid clogs.

Maintenance and Care Tips for Plumbing Snakes

Owning a plumbing snake is only half the battle keeping it in good working condition is just as important. Regular maintenance ensures that your tool stays effective, lasts longer, and operates safely whenever you need it. Here’s how to properly care for your plumbing snake.

Cleaning and Storing After Use

After each use, always clean your plumbing snake thoroughly to remove debris, grime, and bacteria from the cable. Follow these steps:

Wipe the Cable: After retracting the snake, use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean off any dirt, hair, or residue.
Disinfect the Cable: Run a mixture of warm water and mild bleach (or vinegar) along the cable to kill germs and remove odors.
Dry Completely: Wipe the entire cable dry to prevent rust formation.
Lubricate if Needed: Apply a light oil (like machine oil or WD-40) to the cable and moving parts to prevent corrosion.
Coil and Store: Gently coil the cable without kinks and store it in a dry, cool location away from moisture.

Avoid leaving the snake wet or storing it in damp basements or garages, as this can cause rust and weaken the cable over time.

Safety Tips During Use

Operating a plumbing snake might seem simple, but improper use can lead to injuries or pipe damage. Keep these safety tips in mind:

Wear gloves and eye protection. This protects your hands from cuts and prevents dirty water splashes.
Never force the cable. If the snake gets stuck, stop rotating immediately—forcing it can crack the pipe or twist the cable.
Use steady pressure. Gentle, consistent turning works better than jerky or rapid movements.
Avoid chemical cleaners before snaking. Chemicals like drain openers can splash back and cause burns.
Keep the snake straight. Avoid sharp bends in the cable to prevent tangling or breakage.

A well-maintained plumbing snake can last for 5 to 10 years, even longer for high-end models, making it a smart investment for any homeowner.

Conclusion

A plumbing snake is one of the most practical tools for any homeowner dealing with clogs and slow drains. Whether you decide to buy, rent, or hire a plumber, knowing the costs helps you make a smart financial choice.

For basic DIY jobs, a manual snake ($10–$40) or a toilet auger ($25–$75) usually does the trick. If you face recurring or severe blockages, investing in an electric model ($100–$600) or hiring a plumber for $150–$350 per visit may be more efficient and effective.

Before purchasing, always consider the type of drain, clog severity, and frequency of use. For infrequent users, renting from Home Depot or Lowe’s for $20–$80 per day is cost-effective. On the other hand, homeowners who deal with regular clogs should buy their own tool it pays for itself quickly.

FAQs

1. What’s the cheapest plumbing snake to buy?
The cheapest options are mini or handheld drain snakes, costing between $8 and $20. These are ideal for small clogs in sinks and showers but aren’t suitable for deep or stubborn blockages.

2. How long does a plumbing snake last?
With proper cleaning and storage, a plumbing snake can last 5 to 10 years. High-quality stainless steel models and electric versions may last even longer if maintained well.

3. Can I rent a plumbing snake from Home Depot or Lowe’s?
Yes! Both Home Depot and Lowe’s offer plumbing snake rentals. Rates usually range from $25 to $80 per day, depending on the machine size and type. This is a great option for one-time or occasional drain cleaning jobs.

4. Is it cheaper to snake a drain or use chemicals?
While chemical drain cleaners cost less upfront ($5–$15), they can damage pipes over time. Snaking is a safer and more effective long-term solution, especially for recurring clogs. Plus, you only need to buy a snake once.

5. How much do plumbers charge for snaking a main line?
Plumbers typically charge $300 to $600 to snake a main sewer line. This higher cost is due to the heavy-duty equipment required and the difficulty of accessing large pipes or outdoor cleanouts.