Plumber in Philadelphia, PA - Plumbing, Drain Cleaning & Water Cleanup | Roto-Rooter
Roto-Rooter is a fully licensed and insured plumber in Philadelphia, PA, providing 24/7 plumbing services, drain cleaning, and water damage cleanup. More people depend on Roto-Rooter than any other plumbing company in North America.
When you choose Roto-Rooter, you get:
Same day service
24/7 availability
No hidden or extra charge for plumbing or drain service on holidays, nights, and weekends
Free onsite and upfront estimates
Fully licensed, insured, experienced plumbers
State-of-the-art diagnostics and equipment
Senior and military discounts
Special financing options available
Roto-Rooter of Philadelphia is on the job when you need us. Contact us at 215-446-9067, or use our online scheduling form.
Comprehensive Plumbing Solutions in Philadelphia
Older homes in Philadelphia often have plumbing systems made with lead, galvanized steel, or clay pipes that are prone to clogs, leaks, and sudden pipe bursts. Local water contains dissolved calcium and magnesium that can accumulate in pipes and water heaters, causing blockages and water heater failure. The city has strict plumbing regulations, and licensed Philadelphia plumbing companies are required for most work. Roto-Rooter plumbers tailor our services to meet and resolve Philadelphia plumbing issues.
We offer a wide range of plumbing services, including:
Commercial Plumbing Services
Roto-Rooter understands that a commercial plumbing issue can shut down your business, forcing you to turn away customers and reducing your productivity. We provide the following Philadelphia plumbing services to commercial facilities, including pharmaceutical companies, banks, software development firms, and healthcare facilities:
24/7 Emergency Plumbing Service in Philadelphia
You can’t afford to wait when you need an emergency plumber in Philadelphia, PA. Roto-Rooter’s dedicated plumbers are on call 24/7 with same-day service to solve your plumbing and water-related emergencies.
7 signs of a plumbing emergency
Bubbling, backed up drains
Burst or frozen pipes
Loss of hot water
Sewage or sulphur smells indoors
Unexplained spike in water bills
Brown or rusty water
Standing water in basements
Expert Drain Cleaning in Philadelphia
Debris that builds up over time in drains can cause clogs, reducing water flow and blocking the drain. By offering 24/7 drain and sewer cleaning support, Roto-Rooter can help keep your drains clear. Call us, and a Philadelphia plumber will be at your door to address your sewer or drain problem.
Our drain cleaning services Include:
Sink drains
Toilet drains
Floor drains
Roof drains and downspouts
Storm drains
Main sewer drains
We use drain snakes, rooters, and hydro-jetting equipment to eliminate debris and optimize drain performance. No matter the cause of your clogged drain, we’ll open it and clean it thoroughly from end to end.
Water Heater Repairs and Installations
Water heater repairs are among the top reasons people call plumbers in Philadelphia, PA. The average lifespan of a conventional water heater is 11 years, with tankless models lasting about two decades. Make sure you’re scheduling regular water heater maintenance.
If you notice any of these warning signs, give us a call:
Reduced Hot Water Supply: May indicate sediment buildup, a faulty heating element, or a leak.
Pools of Water Around the Tank Base: A sign of a serious issue, including a possible hole in the tank.
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Ejecting Water: Indicates high pressure or temperature, requiring immediate attention.
Strange Noises: Suggest sediment buildup, a faulty heating element, or a leak.
Discolored Hot Water: Rust or contaminants could be affecting your water.
Frequent Water Heater Operation: May indicate sediment buildup or a malfunctioning component.
Roto-Rooter’s experienced Philadelphia plumbing technicians service all types of water heaters, including traditional, tankless, and solar models.
Sewer Pipe Restoration and Excavation in Philadelphia
Sewer line issues can result in backed-up wastewater, foul smells, and property damage. Roto-Rooter’s sewer solutions professionals clear clogs and repair sewer lines quickly and efficiently to protect your property and health.
Our sewer line services include:
Sewer Line Cleaning: Prevent clogs and backups with routine cleanings.
Video Camera Inspections: See exactly what’s causing your sewer line problems with our in-pipe inspections.
Sewer Line Repair: We use conventional excavation and trenchless methods to repair damaged sewer lines with minimal disruption.
Sewer Line Replacement: When repairs aren’t feasible, we replace your sewer line with durable, high-quality materials.
Water Softener and Filtration
Philadelphia has moderately hard to hard water. Minerals in hard water accumulate in water pipes and appliances, reducing water flow and causing damage. Hard water used for bathing dries skin and leaves hair looking limp. Roto-Rooter installs and services water softeners, which alleviate the damaging qualities of hard water.
Types of water softeners
Salt-based water softeners
Salt-free water softeners
Dual-tank water softeners
Magnetic water softeners
Reverse osmosis water softeners
Shower head water softeners
Philadelphia’s water supply comes from the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers. While local water typically exceeds EPA standards, trace amounts of disinfectant byproducts, chromium, lead, and carcinogenic PFAS may be present in local water. A water filtration system helps ensure your home or business's best possible water quality.
Types of filtration systems
Activated carbon
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Mechanical
Ultraviolet
Service Areas in Philadelphia
We are your local plumber in Philadelphia, PA. We serve Philadelphia, Elkins Park, Cheltenham, Wyncote and surrounding cities.
Roto-Rooter: Your Trusted Source for Plumbing Services in Philadelphia
We are fully licensed, insured, and ready to help you deal with all plumbing problems, big or small. From a leaky faucet to sewer backups, we’re available 24/7, 365 days a year. Call us at 215-446-9067 for an appointment with a professional Philadelphia plumber, or use our online scheduling form.
Emergency Plumbing in Philadelphia
Plumbing emergencies do not wait for business hours. Burst pipes, sewage backups, and major water leaks can cause thousands of dollars in damage within minutes. Roto-Rooter operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year in Philadelphia.
When you call 215-446-9067, a live representative connects you with a local technician who can typically arrive within hours. Our trucks carry the parts and equipment needed for most emergency repairs, so we resolve the problem in a single visit.

COUPONS
$55 Off Any Drain Cleaning Service
Customer Reviews
We are getting a lot of rain and my drain clogged and water was seeping into my neighbor’s basement. Roto-Rooter was at my house in just over an hour from ... calling. Tim was great. He explained what the issue was and my options should I have future problems.
Called at 6:30 am they were there by 7:45 am and problem was fixed by 9:00 am.Technicians were courteous and professional...explained the issues and resolved them quickly...great job
Robert W.My wife was very happy with the prote time of tech and way he exsplaned what he was doing
Joseph A.Philadelphia's clay and shale and Pennsylvania's cold winters contribute to several recurring plumbing problems. Knowing what to watch for helps homeowners catch issues before they escalate.
- aging combined sewer systems
- pre-war cast iron pipe failures
- basement flooding and sump pump issues
- freeze-thaw pipe damage
Clay and shale affects row houses and older homes with basements throughout Philadelphia. Basement flooding and sump pump failures add to the urgency during heavy rain.
Serving the entire Philadelphia metro area, Including:
Counties in the Philadelphia Metro Area
Memberships & Affiliations



Proud Member of:
Plumbing Licenses:
Frequently Asked Questions in Philadelphia
How do I know if my drain needs professional cleaning?
Slow drains in multiple fixtures, gurgling toilets, or sewage odors from floor drains indicate a blockage deeper than store-bought products can reach. Chemical cleaners can damage cast iron and clay tile pipes found in most Philadelphia homes built before 1960. Call 215-446-9067 for a professional assessment.
What causes recurring drain clogs in Philadelphia homes?
Tree root intrusion is the most common cause. Philadelphia's mature street trees grow roots into cracks and joints in aging pipes, and roots regrow after each cleaning. Cast iron deterioration and grease buildup also contribute. A camera inspection identifies the specific cause so you can address it permanently.
How often should Philadelphia homeowners schedule drain cleaning?
Annual cleaning is recommended for most Philadelphia homes, especially those with mature trees near sewer lines or pre-1950 homes with original pipe materials. Properties with recurring clogs may benefit from service every six months.
Will hydro jetting damage my older pipes?
Roto-Rooter technicians adjust water pressure based on pipe material and condition. For older cast iron or clay tile pipes common in Philadelphia, lower pressure settings effectively remove buildup without damage. A camera inspection before jetting confirms the pipe can handle the process.
Does Philadelphia's combined sewer system affect my home drains?
Yes. About 60 percent of Philadelphia uses a combined sewer system that handles both wastewater and stormwater. During heavy rain, the system can push water back into residential drains. A properly maintained drain line with a backwater valve helps protect your home during these events.
How long does a typical drain cleaning service take?
Most residential drain cleaning jobs take 30 to 90 minutes depending on severity and location. Main sewer line cleanings with camera inspection typically take one to two hours. Rowhouse access constraints may add time if the cleanout is in the basement.
Can Roto-Rooter handle commercial drain cleaning in Philadelphia?
Roto-Rooter provides commercial drain cleaning for restaurants, office buildings, and retail spaces across Philadelphia. Our commercial equipment handles lines up to 10 inches in diameter with scheduled maintenance programs available.
What should I do if a pipe bursts in my Philadelphia home?
Turn off the main water shut-off valve immediately to stop water flow. In most Philadelphia rowhomes, this valve is located in the basement near the front wall. Then call Roto-Rooter at 215-446-9067 for emergency pipe repair. Move electronics, documents, and valuables away from standing water while waiting for our technician to arrive.
Why do Philadelphia homes experience so many pipe failures?
Philadelphia's water mains average 76 years old, and many homes still have original galvanized steel or cast iron pipes installed during construction. These materials corrode internally over decades, restricting flow and weakening pipe walls until they fail under normal water pressure. The city's dense rowhome construction means water damage often spreads to adjacent properties.
Does Roto-Rooter handle water heater emergencies in Philadelphia?
Yes. Our technicians repair and replace both tank and tankless water heaters. We carry common water heater parts on our service vehicles to resolve most failures on the first visit, including thermocouple replacement, pressure relief valve repair, and full tank replacement.
How quickly can Roto-Rooter respond to a plumbing emergency in Philadelphia?
Roto-Rooter responds promptly to emergency plumbing calls throughout Philadelphia. Our technicians are available 24/7, 365 days a year with fully equipped service vehicles positioned across the city for fast dispatch.
Are Philadelphia homeowners responsible for their sewer lateral?
Yes. Philadelphia property owners are responsible for maintaining the sewer lateral connecting their building to the city sewer main. Roto-Rooter can inspect, clean, and repair sewer laterals, and our technicians can help you understand the condition of your line with a video camera inspection.
Does Roto-Rooter charge extra for emergency calls at night or on weekends in Philadelphia?
No. Roto-Rooter does not charge extra for emergency service at night, on weekends, or during holidays. Our 24/7, 365 days a year availability means you pay the same rate regardless of when the emergency occurs.
Can old lead pipes cause plumbing emergencies in Philadelphia?
Lead service lines themselves rarely burst, but they can develop pinhole leaks and corrosion that reduce water pressure and contaminate drinking water. More critically, lead pipes are often connected to equally old internal plumbing that is prone to failure. If you suspect lead pipes in your Philadelphia home, call 215-446-9067 for an assessment.
Roto-Rooter has built its reputation since 1935 by delivering honest, effective plumbing service. Our Philadelphia technicians are licensed, background-checked, and trained on the latest equipment and techniques.
We back every job with a satisfaction guarantee and stand behind our work with clear warranties. No hidden fees, no upselling - just straightforward plumbing service focused on solving the problem.
Our local team understands Philadelphia's building codes, permit requirements, and the specific plumbing challenges that come with row houses and older homes with basements in this region.
Yeah, we do both.Call now to schedule
215-446-9067
SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE
We have partnered with Synchrony Bank to offer financing options to make your plumbing repair expenses as convenient and stress-free as possible.



