Do I need a plumber to unclog a drain or can I DIY?

You can clear minor drain clogs with a plunger or plastic hair snake, but hire a plumber if the drain stays blocked, backs up, or returns. Most small clogs sit near the trap from hair, soap, or grease. Skip harsh chemical cleaners; they often don’t fix deeper blockages. Whole-home backups usually mean a main sewer issue; pros use camera inspections, hydro jetting, or root removal to fix the cause. In the Monticello area, we often find tree roots that homeowner tools can’t reach.

Call a pro fast if you notice:

• Water backing up from a floor drain or multiple fixtures at once
• Toilet bubbling when a sink or tub drains
• Sewage odors, soggy yard, or storm-related flooding at drains

If you try DIY, use gentle tools only and stop immediately if the cable or plunger catches hard resistance. <br/> Updated: 2026-05-05 <br/> Need help in Monticello, IL? Call 217-559-9454 or book online. "We very much appreciated Lanz for fixing our sewer issue in such a timely manner." — Chase L.