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Paynes Plumbing & Electric

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Licensed Drain Cleaning Experts

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Drain Cleaning Services

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    Drain Cleaning Service That Clears the Clog for Good

    A sink that drains slower every day, a tub that takes forever to empty, a bad smell that won’t go away no matter how much you scrub. Something’s built up in the line, and it’s not going to clear itself out, no matter how long you wait or how many times you plunge it.

    Drain cleaning removes the grease, hair, soap scum, and debris that build up inside your pipes over time. Depending on how bad the clog is, that might mean snaking the line or a deeper cleaning to clear the whole pipe, not just the spot where it’s blocked.

    Our licensed drain service techs never rely on harsh store-bought chemicals, which can eat away at your pipes and cause bigger problems down the road. We never charge a travel fee or a diagnostic fee to come take a look, and every estimate is honest and upfront before any work begins. That’s the standard we built this company on, one job at a time.

    A slow drain rarely fixes itself. Left alone, the clog usually gets worse, and what starts as a minor annoyance can turn into a backup that affects more than one fixture in your home, sometimes at the worst possible time.

    If your drains have been slow or smelling off, it’s worth getting it looked at. A quick call gets you a straight answer and a plan to clear it.

    Flexible Financing for Drain Cleaning

    Drain cleaning is usually an affordable fix, but bigger clogs or repeated buildup can add up over time. Through Wisetack, you can check your financing options in seconds, with no pressure.

    What to Expect for Drain Cleaning Service

    1

    REQUEST SERVICE

    Call us or fill out our online form and tell us what's going on, a slow sink, a gurgling drain, or a smell that won't quit. We'll ask a few quick questions to get the full picture before we ever arrive.

    2

    FREE ESTIMATE

    A licensed technician inspects the affected drain, checking how slow it's draining and, if needed, using a camera to see what's actually causing the clog further down the line.

    3

    UPFRONT PRICING

    Before any work starts, you'll get a clear, honest estimate for the cleaning. No surprise charges show up on the invoice later, what we quote is what you pay.

    4

    EXPERT SERVICE

    Our tech clears the line using the right tool for the clog, then runs water through to confirm it's draining properly before we call the job done.

    From a Kitchen Sink That Won't Drain to a Tub That Backs Up Every Time You Shower, Here's What Causes Most Clogged Drains

    Common Drain Cleaning Problems We Fix

    • Kitchen sink that drains slower every week
    • Bathtub or shower that backs up during use
    • Bathroom sink clogged with hair and soap scum
    • Gurgling sounds coming from a drain or toilet
    • Bad smell coming from a sink or floor drain
    • Multiple drains backing up around the same time
    • Slow-draining floor drain in a basement or laundry room

    Most clogs build up slowly. A little grease here, some hair there, until one day the water just won’t go down like it used to. By the time you notice it, there’s usually already a real buildup sitting inside the pipe.

    Pouring in a bottle of store-bought drain cleaner might clear a small clog temporarily, but it won’t remove what’s actually built up along the pipe walls, and it can damage older pipes over time. A proper cleaning clears the whole line, not just a hole through the middle of the clog.

    When It's More Than a Simple Drain Clog

    One slow drain is usually isolated. But if more than one drain or fixture is backing up at the same time, or the same drain keeps clogging every few weeks no matter what you do, that points to a bigger buildup or blockage further down the line than a plunger or store-bought cleaner can reach.

    Our licensed techs can inspect the line with a camera to see exactly what’s going on before recommending a fix. That means you’re not paying to guess, and if there’s something more serious going on, you’ll know about it before it turns into a bigger repair.

    Why Professional Drain Cleaning Service Beats a Bottle of Store-Bought Cleaner, Every Time.

    Chemical drain cleaners might clear a clog for a day or two, but they don’t remove what’s actually built up inside the pipe, and repeated use can corrode older pipes from the inside out. Our licensed techs use tools built for the job, so the clog actually clears instead of just moving further down the line.

    Helping You Choose the Right Solution

    Not every clog needs the same approach. Our techs assess what’s actually causing the blockage and recommend the right level of cleaning for it, so you’re not paying for more than the situation calls for, whether that’s a quick snake or a full line cleaning.

    • Honest read on what’s actually causing the clog
    • No harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes
    • A cleaning method matched to the severity of the blockage

    Professional Drain Service

    On every drain cleaning job, our licensed techs assess the clog, use the right tool for the buildup, and run water through the line afterward to confirm it’s flowing the way it should. That’s what separates a real clean from a quick fix that clogs again in a few weeks.

    We’re a family-owned company, and every job gets treated with the same care we’d want in our own home. That means explaining what we found, cleaning up after ourselves, and standing behind the work once we’re done, not just packing up and moving on to the next call.

    Drain Cleaning Maintenance

    Drains build up debris gradually, so a little routine attention goes a long way toward avoiding a full clog. Staying ahead of it usually costs less than waiting for a backup.

    Core Maintenance Items

    • Run Hot Water After Use. A quick flush of hot water after washing dishes or showering helps keep grease and soap from settling in the pipe.
    • Skip the Chemical Cleaners. Harsh drain cleaners can damage older pipes over time, so it’s better to call for a proper cleaning instead.
    • Schedule Periodic Cleanings for Problem Drains. If one drain always seems to clog faster than the others, a regular cleaning schedule can keep it from becoming a bigger issue.

    A little routine maintenance beats dealing with a backup later. Reach out and we’ll help you figure out what your drains actually need.

    Trusted by 187+ Local Homeowners and Businesses

    Chris Ellard
    14 hours ago
    Jarrod Vick
    14 hours ago
    Jesse was great
    Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review! We’re glad Jesse was able to get your clogged toilet taken care of quickly. We appreciate you choosing Paynes Plumbing & Electric!
    Taylor Anderson
    6 days ago
    Excellent service!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star review! We appreciate you trusting Paynes Plumbing & Electric with your septic inspection. We’re glad we could provide a thorough inspection and help give you a clear understanding of your septic system. We truly appreciate your business and recommendation!
    Tammy Silcox
    1 week ago
    Mr Payne was wonderful and fixing my septic. Very helpful did all the paperwork that I didn't know how to do. He took everything in his hands and made my life easier. Very good price. I'm so thankful for them and will use them in the future.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for trusting our company look forward to helping in the future!
    Ray Williams
    2 weeks ago
    As a real estate professional and a homeowner, I’ve learned that having the right people in your corner is everything. In this business, clients often become friends — and many become like family. When I refer someone to one of my vendors, I’m putting more than their name on the line. I’m putting my own reputation and my client’s trust in their hands. That’s something I take very seriously. I’m fortunate to have several plumbers I absolutely trust, and John and his crew have earned a place on that very short list. Recently, I was working with a buyer who was under contract on a home. We did exactly what we’re supposed to do — our due diligence, inspections, and further investigation when something didn’t seem right. We initially believed the home had an issue with the PRV/pressure-reducing valve. After John got involved and actually took the time to investigate the problem, we learned something important: the problem wasn’t with the home at all. It was a city water-pressure issue. Here’s the part that says everything about John and the way he does business. He didn’t charge my client. But even more impressive — he didn’t simply say, “It’s the city’s problem,” and walk away. John has had someone continue monitoring the situation so that once the city addresses its side of the issue, we can make sure this buyer — soon to be the new homeowner — isn’t left dealing with a problem after closing. Think about that. The job wasn’t his problem. There wasn’t an invoice to collect. There wasn’t anything forcing him to stay involved. He stayed involved because he cared about the outcome. That’s service. That’s integrity. And THAT is why relationships matter so much to me in real estate. I don’t want a list of vendors who simply answer the phone. I want people I can confidently put in front of my clients and know they’re going to care for them the same way I would. John and his crew have shown me that repeatedly. They show up, investigate the problem instead of guessing, communicate, and make every effort to ensure things are addressed properly — not just quickly. Anybody can provide a service. The people you remember are the ones who take ownership even when they don’t have to. John, thank you for taking care of my clients, protecting the relationship and trust I’ve built with them, and reminding me what exceptional service actually looks like. That’s the kind of person I’m proud to refer.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. Your trust means a great deal to John and our entire team, especially knowing that when you refer one of your clients to us, you’re trusting us with a relationship and reputation you’ve worked hard to build. Our goal is always to find the actual cause of the problem, communicate honestly, and do what’s right for the customer—even when that means there isn’t a repair for us to make. We truly appreciate your continued confidence in Paynes Plumbing & Electric and are grateful to be one of the companies you trust to take care of your clients. Thank you again for the kind words, the referrals, and for trusting us to be in your corner. We don’t take that lightly!
    Lisa McGinley
    2 weeks ago
    John Payne Plumbing and Electrical is absolutely exceptional. John and his crew recently replaced our old septic wastewater pump, installed a brand-new pump system, and replaced the float switches and alarm sensors. They also pulled entirely new electrical wiring, conduit, switches, breakers, and alarms from the house to the pump station.Throughout the entire process, they were honest, highly professional, and arrived exactly on time. They didn't just do the heavy lifting; they completed rigorous system testing and took the time to educate me on how the new setup operates.They were incredibly clean, picked up after themselves, and took great care of my property. It is rare to find such honest subcontractors who do high-quality work. Best of all, their pricing is very reasonable and they are not out to gouge their customers. I highly recommend them and will absolutely use them again in the future!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the incredible review! We truly appreciate you trusting Paynes Plumbing & Electric with your septic wastewater pump replacement and the electrical work needed for the new system. Our team takes pride in doing the job right, thoroughly testing everything, keeping the work area clean, and making sure our customers understand how their new system operates. We’re grateful for your recommendation and look forward to being there whenever you need us in the future!
    XybeeBaby
    2 weeks ago
    John and Jesse came out to Anderson County to locate a septic system on a property for a new construction They arrived within the given time frame, they called when on their way as we requested prior, they immediately assessed the situation and explained everything to us- my Grandparents are in their 90’s trying to get this project done and John was EXCELLENT with explaining it all , and went out of his way to consult with fellow professionals and help us figure out the next steps to take in the process. Both he and his employee were very patient, kind, respectful, and this man had so much knowledge on this stuff!!! We were so impressed by them - He didn’t charge a thing as our situation was different from the norm , HONEST PROFESSIONAL AND HUMAN DECENCY in these country boys- I’d recommend them every time!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the thoughtful review! We’re glad John and Jesse were able to help locate the septic system, explain everything clearly, and help determine the best next steps. Taking the time to answer questions and treat our customers with honesty, patience, and respect is extremely important to us. We truly appreciate your kind words and recommendation. Thank you for trusting Paynes Plumbing & Electric!
    Brian Ferrante
    3 weeks ago
    Helped me after hours. Quick and efficient Jesse roche was awesome
    Response from the owner:Thank you for your review! We’re grateful you called us for your after-hours emergency. Our team works hard to provide fast, dependable service no matter the time of day, and we’re glad we could get the issue taken care of. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to helping you again if you ever need us.
    Miranda Chadwell
    3 weeks ago
    Competitive pricing. Quick to get me on the schedule. Great communication and customer service. Highly recommend.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the great review! We're glad you were happy with our competitive pricing, quick scheduling, and communication throughout the job. Providing great customer service is always our goal, and we truly appreciate your recommendation. We look forward to helping with any future plumbing or electrical needs!
    Melissa Boring
    3 weeks ago
    John and his guys are very professional and get the job done. Would use them again and recommend them to my friends.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much! We appreciate the kind words and the recommendation. Glad we could get the water leak taken care of for you!
    Paynes is great!
    Response from the owner:Thanks for the review Brittany!
    John and Jesse were awesome! They weren't even originally supposed to do the job however they made sure we were number 1 priority when an accidental construction project cut our water. They made sure our water was back on, very honest, timely and even answering after hours calls! Will definitely keep the business card and number for anything in the future. And we got them to replace our PRV! Very quick and efficient
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind words! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’re glad John and Jesse were able to step in and get your water back on as quickly as possible. Providing honest, dependable service when our customers need us most is always our goal. Let us know if you need us in the future!
    Patrick Finn
    1 month ago
    Wonderful to work with, very knowledge and reliable on time service. They stand by their work and I would highly recommend!
    Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the kind words! We’re glad we could help with your fan installation. We appreciate your recommendation and your trust in Paynes Plumbing & Electric. We’re just a call away if you ever need us again!
    Alison McKenzie
    1 month ago
    They were professional, knowledgeable, and solved my problem. Will use them again!
    Response from the owner:Alison, thank you for the 5 star review. Delivering exceptional service is what we always aim to deliver.
    Elijah Turner
    2 months ago
    John and his team at Payne’s Plumbing did a wonderful job on a major repair for us. We had a rental that could not use toilets, showers, and sinks. We called Payne’s and they went out the same day to diagnose the problem and were out the next day to fix the issue! Highly recommend for all your plumbing needs!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind review! We're glad we could get out quickly, get the problem figured out, and get your rental back up and running. We appreciate your trust and are always here if you need us again!
    Bobby Bramhall
    2 months ago
    This is the best plumbing company in Knoxville. Professional, timely, and reasonable.We had an incredibly difficult job that they took care of from start to finish. I highly recommend!!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind words! We really appreciate you trusting us with such a challenging job. It means a lot to hear that you were happy with our work, and we’re always here if you need us again. Thanks for the recommendation!
    Cody Privett
    2 months ago
    Excellent service! Quick and easy fix. They don’t over charge and are super nice.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much! We're glad we could get it fixed quickly for you. We really appreciate your kind words and look forward to helping you again whenever you need us!
    Kari Anderson
    2 months ago
    Response from the owner:Thanks for the 5 stars Kari!
    Donna West
    2 months ago
    John and his team were both professional and quick. He made suggestions that showed knowledge and saved us time and money. His price was very fair. Next time I need a plumber, he is the one I will call.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind review! We’re glad John and the team were able to get everything taken care of quickly. We believe in giving honest recommendations and treating every customer like we’d like to be treated. We appreciate you and look forward to helping if you need us in the future!
    Alison Finn
    2 months ago
    I can not say enough good things about these guys! They are punctual and thorough and professional. And they are reasonable on price. I will call them for any plumbing or electrical need.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Providing punctual, professional service at a fair price is what we strive for every day. It means a lot to know we've earned your trust for your future plumbing and electrical needs. We look forward to serving you again!
    nicolsha scott
    2 months ago
    I had a gas line ran on my food truck. Although, it took a little longer than expected due to weather and parts. Payne’s Plumbing communication was great. The service was great. I would use them again!! 10/10 recommend!!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the awesome review! We really appreciate your patience while we worked through the weather delays, and we’re glad we could get your food trucks gas line taken care of. Thanks for trusting us! We look forward to helping again if you need us in the future!
    Gordon Darby
    2 months ago
    I can’t say enough good things about John and Payne’s Plumbing. After buying a new home, I ran into an unexpected issue that forced me to postpone my tankless water heater installation. Once everything was resolved, I reached back out expecting to schedule for another day. Instead, John told me he could still make it out that same day. Not only did he install the tankless water heater, but he also took the time to look over a few other plumbing concerns I had and answered all of my questions. That kind of customer service is hard to find. John is honest, professional, and takes pride in his work—and it shows. If you’re looking for a plumber who stands behind his work, communicates well, and truly cares about his customers, I highly recommend Payne’s Plumbing. You won’t be disappointed.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for this incredible review! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We're glad John was able to accommodate your schedule and get your tankless water heater installed once everything was ready. Taking the time to answer questions and make sure our customers feel informed and confident is something we take seriously. Don't hesitate to reach out if we can help with anything in the future!
    Jade Wilson
    2 months ago
    Paynes Plumbing and Electric was able to come out and diagnose our issue the same day we called. They were thorough in explaining the problem, the solution, and were willing to work with my schedule to resolve the problem. I found the staff respectful and personable and have already contacted them for additional work on separate issues.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review! We truly appreciate your trust in us and look forward to helping with your future plumbing and electrical needs
    Jan Longdue
    2 months ago
    Highly recommend! Payne’s plumbing is a rare gem that really cares about quality of work for a very fair price.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind words! We truly appreciate your recommendation. Providing quality workmanship at a fair price is what we strive for on every job. We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to helping with any future plumbing or septic needs
    Russ Whitenack
    3 months ago
    The plumbers that helped us were fast, professional and did a great job for us. We will certainly call them when we need them again.
    Response from the owner:We’re happy we could take care of your needs! Thanks for the 5 star review!

    Why Choose Payne's for Drain Cleaning?

    Frequently Asked Questions About Drain Cleaning

    Drain cleaning brings up a lot of questions, especially if you’ve been dealing with a stubborn clog. Here are the answers homeowners ask us most.

    What is the average cost to have a drain unclogged?

    Cost depends on the severity of the clog, which drain is affected, and whether a camera inspection is needed to find the cause. We give you a firm, upfront estimate after taking a look, so you’ll know the price before any work begins. There’s never a travel fee or diagnostic fee added on top.

    How much does it cost to clean drains?

    It varies based on how many drains need attention and how significant the buildup is. A single slow drain typically costs less to clear than a full system cleaning. We’ll walk you through the options and give you a clear price before starting.

    Why do plumbers say not to use drain cleaning products?

    Store-bought drain cleaners are harsh chemicals that can corrode pipes over time, especially older ones. They also tend to punch a small hole through the clog rather than clearing it, so the same problem often comes back within weeks.

    How do you unclog a sewer line without a plumber?

    A plunger or a basic hand snake might clear a simple clog close to the drain opening, but a sewer line blockage usually sits much further down and needs professional equipment to clear safely. Attempting it without the right tools risks pushing the clog further in or damaging the pipe.

    How long does drain cleaning take?

    Most single-drain cleanings take under an hour. If multiple drains need attention or the clog requires a camera inspection first, it may take a bit longer. Your technician will give you a time estimate after taking a look.

    Paynes Plumbing & Electric is Proudly Serving Greater Knoxville & Surrounding Areas

    We proudly serve Knox County and surrounding East Tennessee counties, including Anderson, Blount, Loudon, Roane, Sevier, Jefferson, Grainger, and Union.

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    Contact Paynes Plumbing & Electric

    Get in touch with our team today. Whether you need a quick repair, expert advice, or help with an urgent plumbing issue, we’re here to help. Fill out the form and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

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