FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose Drain Help?
Drain Help is one of many plumbing and drain cleaning companies in San Diego. However, Drain Help is the only drain expert in San Diego. Many companies may claim they know how to clean drains, however, we have made it our duty as a company to specialize in drain installation, repair, and cleaning. All of our employees are highly qualified in the field that they are working in. However, even though we specialize in drains, we are also very competent in other plumbing services as well. We are up to date on all of the new technology and procedures in this industry to ensure that our customers have a pleasant and safe experience with our company. In addition to this, you should choose Drain Help because we provide fast service at excellent prices.
What if I have an emergency after hours?
Well one of the things that Drain Help takes great pride in, is that they work around the clock 24/7 at no extra charge. We understand how stressful emergency plumbing and drain situations can be and that is why we service the greater San Diego area 24/7—because we want to eliminate that stress for you so you can have a good night’s rest. Keep in mind that we also open on the holidays.
How much do you charge?
We get this question quite often and the truth is told, there is no set pricing for a specific job. Our technicians provide the best possible prices based on each job. So it is important to understand that we do not work on a per hour basis. Rather it is up to our technicians to come up with an appropriate estimate based on the extremity of the job. That is why we provide free estimates for our customers before we perform any type of work on their property.
What payment methods do you accept?
Drain Help currently accepts payment via cash, credit card and Venmo. All major credit cards are accepted included Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. Please note, we do not accept checks at this moment.
Do your technicians know how to install and handle designer items?
Our technicians are familiar with all types of plumbing and drain items. They can properly install these items with no problems. They are familiar with the way American and European plumbing works and what needs to be done so that these installations are put in properly.
Do you clean rain gutters?
We have been getting this question a lot and I think it is because of the strong rains El Nino will bring to San Diego in the near future. However, the truth of the matter is that we do not clear rain gutters. What we can do to help get you prepared is clean out your storm drain properly to prevent flooding.
What does $77 special include?
The $77 drain cleaning is our famous special in which we would come out to your property and clean out a drain line with our rotor rooter (snake), along with a free camera inspection. However, it is important to understand that to qualify for our $77 drain cleaning, the property must have a cleanout that is easily accessible. If you do not have a cleanout or your cleanout is not easily accessible, then the price for the drain cleaning will increase. This is especially true if our technicians need to clean out the drain line from the roof (which can be highly dangerous). Also, keep in mind that it will also be more if the technician needs to clear out the drain through a P-trap instead of a cleanout. Also, it is important to note that if our technicians feel that your drain problems will not be fixed by a simple snake cleaning, then our technicians will notify you and offer a fair price for cleaning out your drains with our hydro jet. If this occurs, then you have the choice to hydro-jet your drains or to continue with the snake cleaning. Our technicians will not perform any tasks without getting your approval on the set price that was estimated. With that said, it is also imperative that our customers understand that this deal is a discount in itself and cannot be used in conjunction with any of our other discounts.
What is the difference between a snake cleaning and hydro-jetting?
A snake is what we call in this business a roto rooter. Basically, a snake takes out some of the most difficult clogs that a typical toilet plunger cannot clear. However, that is all they do, they only clear out any clogs or obstructions that may be blocking the flow, and they do not really clear out any sludge or really “clean” your drains.
With that said, another option that you can do is hydro jet your drains which are highly recommended. A hydro jet will allow you to clean your drains thoroughly. This service is also recommended for clogs that are too difficult to clear with a snake alone. This is because a hydro jet is a pressure washer that releases water at 7,000 PSI to 60,000 PSI (PSI= Pounds Per Square Inch). That amount of pressure is powerful enough to clear the toughest clogs and sludge build up that has occurred over the years.
What is a cleanout and where it is located?
A cleanout is an access point that plumbers can use to enter the main sewer line or the secondary sewer line. They are normally located outside of the house or in the garage. However, if you cannot find it, try following the sewer line and it should lead you to where your cleanout is located. Keep in mind that sometimes cleanouts are sometimes covered with cement or the natural landscape and, therefore, hard to search out.
What are some things I can do to prepare for El Nino?
One of the main things you can do to prepare is to clear your storm drains. In order to ensure to reduce the risk of flooding once the El Nino rains come to your community is by clearing our your property’s storm drains. With time, those drains can get dirt, leaves, tree roots, and other obstructions that will disrupt the flow of water. If your storm drains then it will be hard for the water to flow through the drain freely. With that said, if the water isn’t flowing freely due to a clog then you put your property and neighborhood at risk for flood damage when El Nino rains come to Southern California.