Frequently Asked Questions

Chase, owner of Elite Drain Services, is a Kentucky licensed master plumber serving Lexington and Central Kentucky. A master plumber license is the highest level of plumbing licensure in Kentucky, requiring years of documented field experience and passing a state exam covering code, safety, and full-scope plumbing systems — not just drain and sewer work. That means Elite Drain Services can take on general plumbing, not only the drain and sewer services the name is known for.

Drain cleaning costs vary widely depending on the type of clog, how deep it is, and whether it’s a single fixture or a main line. Simple fixture clogs are typically the least expensive to clear; main line clogs that require heavier equipment cost more. The most accurate way to know your cost is a quick call — we’re upfront about pricing before we start any work.

Sewer line repair cost depends heavily on the type of damage, the length of pipe affected, and how deep the line runs. A simple spot repair costs far less than a full line replacement. We diagnose the actual problem first, so you’re never paying for more repair than you actually need.

Hourly rates for licensed plumbers in Kentucky vary by company, experience level, and whether the call is during business hours or an after-hours emergency. Rather than guess at a number that may not reflect your job, we’re happy to give you a straight quote for your specific situation before any work begins.

The cost to unclog a drain depends on the location of the clog and what it takes to actually clear it — a simple sink clog is usually quick and affordable, while a main line clog requiring specialized equipment costs more. We can usually give you a solid estimate over the phone once we know what you’re dealing with.

For anything beyond a simple, single clog, yes. Store-bought chemical drain cleaners often only clear a small path through a clog rather than removing it, so the same problem tends to come back — and repeated use of harsh chemicals can actually damage older pipes. Professional drain cleaning clears the full line and lets us catch developing problems (like root intrusion or pipe damage) before they become expensive emergencies.

Sometimes, for minor grease clogs in metal pipes — but it’s not a reliable fix, and it can actually damage PVC pipes, which soften under high heat. If boiling water doesn’t clear it after one or two tries, that’s usually a sign the clog needs a real inspection rather than more hot water.

Dish soap can sometimes help break up a grease-based clog when combined with hot water, but it won’t do much for a solid blockage, hair clog, or anything further down the line. If it doesn’t clear the drain quickly, it’s time to call a professional rather than keep experimenting.

In many cases, yes — trenchless repair methods exist that can fix or reline a damaged sewer line with minimal digging, depending on the type and extent of the damage. Whether it’s the right option for your specific line depends on the diagnosis. Give us a call and we’ll tell you honestly whether a trenchless approach fits your situation or whether traditional excavation is the better call.

It depends entirely on your specific policy. Many standard homeowners policies do not automatically cover sewer line damage unless you have a service line endorsement or a separate rider. It’s worth checking directly with your insurance provider before assuming coverage either way.

The right fix depends on what’s actually wrong — a small crack or offset joint might only need a spot repair, while a severely damaged or collapsed section may need to be replaced outright, either by digging it up or, in some cases, through trenchless relining. We always diagnose first, usually with a camera inspection, before recommending a fix.

For most homes, every 18 to 22 months is a reasonable rule of thumb, though homes with mature trees near the sewer line (root intrusion risk) or older cast iron piping may benefit from more frequent cleaning. If you’ve never had it done, a camera inspection is a good place to start.

Look for a valid state license (in Kentucky, ask specifically about master plumber licensure for anything beyond basic repairs), real reviews you can verify, and a company that gives you a straight answer and a real price before starting work. Elite Drain Services is Kentucky licensed and insured, with a 5.0 rating across our Google reviews.